Tag

Sustainable Development

All articles tagged with #sustainable development

international-trade1 year ago

EU-Mercosur Trade Deal: Strengthening Ties Amid Global Tensions

The European Union has reached a significant trade agreement with the Mercosur bloc, comprising Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Bolivia, after 25 years of negotiations. The deal, if ratified, will create one of the world's largest free trade zones, enhancing access to critical raw materials like lithium, which is vital for Europe's shift to renewable energy. While the agreement promises economic benefits, such as reduced export duties and increased market access, it faces opposition from some EU countries concerned about agricultural competition. The deal is seen as a strategic move to diversify supply chains and reduce dependency on China.

environment1 year ago

"2024 World Wildlife Day: Celebrating Conservation Efforts with Breathtaking Nature Pics and Wildlife Cams"

World Wildlife Day, celebrated annually on March 3, recognizes the contributions of wildlife to people and the planet. This year's theme focuses on digital innovation in wildlife conservation, highlighting the use of advanced technology to monitor and preserve wildlife. In honor of World Wildlife Day, people are encouraged to experience nature's wonders through beautiful photos and to revitalize commitments to sustainable development amidst challenges such as invasive species and climate change.

science-and-technology2 years ago

"The Glass Revolution: Bending and Bouncing into the Future"

Glass is undergoing a revolution with advancements like E6, a pure optical glass produced in handmade clay pots, and scientists are using it to explore various frontiers. The UN recognizes glass as a 100% recyclable building block crucial for reaching sustainable development goals. From bioactive glass for bone healing to immobilizing radioactive waste, glass is being reinvented for diverse applications. The Giant Magellan Telescope, made with E6, is set to revolutionize astronomy by enabling unprecedented observations of distant planets, potentially leading to groundbreaking discoveries.

climate-change2 years ago

Controversial Comments on Fossil Fuel Phase-Out at COP28 Spark Outrage

The president of Cop28, Sultan Al Jaber, has stated that there is "no science" supporting the need to phase out fossil fuels to limit global heating to 1.5C, a claim that has been criticized by scientists and is at odds with the position of the UN secretary general. Al Jaber's comments were made during an online event and have raised concerns about his conflict of interest as the CEO of the United Arab Emirates' state oil company. The phase-out of fossil fuels is a contentious issue at Cop28, with over 100 countries supporting it, while others reject the call. The outcome of the summit may hinge on whether the final agreement includes a phase-out or weaker language such as "phase-down."

international-affairs2 years ago

Saudi Arabia's Riyadh to Host 2030 World Expo

Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, has been chosen to host the 2030 World Expo, beating out Rome and Busan. The Saudi bid focused on shaping a prosperous and sustainable future, with plans for a major public transit network and a futuristic, round space featuring public parks, e-game facilities, performance stages, and sports venues. The Expo is expected to draw millions of visitors and Saudi Arabia hopes it will bring 40 million visitors to its capital city. The decision comes amid controversy over Saudi Arabia's human rights record, but the country sees the Expo as an opportunity to expand on its development plans and boost its international stature.

environment2 years ago

"Global Biodiversity Fund Launched to Restore Nature Worldwide by 2030"

Representatives from 185 countries have officially launched the Global Biodiversity Framework Fund (GBFF) to mobilize investment and support nations in meeting global biodiversity goals. Canada and the U.K. have made initial contributions of $146.8 million and $12.58 million, respectively. The fund aims to allocate 20% of funds to Indigenous and local action and at least 36% to support vulnerable populations. However, activists are calling for more contributions and a firm commitment to allocate funds to Indigenous groups. The GBFF will play a crucial role in halting and reversing biodiversity loss and restoring nature by 2030.

environment2 years ago

"Empowering Youth with Green Skills to Save the Planet"

On International Youth Day, young climate activists emphasize the importance of "green skills" in driving the shift towards a sustainable and climate-friendly future. These skills include technical knowledge and transversal skills that enable the effective use of green technologies and facilitate environmentally sustainable decisions. Young climate advisors highlight the need for critical thinking, quantitative reasoning, digital skills, non-violent communication, and intergenerational cooperation. They call on world leaders to take urgent action to address the climate crisis, including equitable funding for adaptation and mitigation, investment in renewable energy, and delivering ambitious climate action to prevent the gradual extinction of climate vulnerable countries.

environment2 years ago

"Amazon Summit: Balancing Trade, Environment, and Human Rights in Brazil"

As leaders from eight nations gather in Belem, Brazil to discuss sustainable development in the Amazon rainforest, merchants at the bustling Ver-o-Peso market highlight the importance of the forest's natural bounty. The market offers a variety of fish, herbs, nuts, berries, and fruits harvested from the world's largest rainforest. While President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva aims to establish a common protection policy, divisions are expected over issues such as oil drilling permits and deforestation resulting from agricultural expansion. The previous government's environmental protections cuts led to a surge in deforestation, but satellite data suggests a 43% decrease in deforestation during Lula's administration. The government is also considering private-sector concessions for reforesting the Amazon with native trees and high-value woods.

environment2 years ago

The Devastating Consequences of the Nickel Rush

The rush for nickel mining in Indonesia, the world's largest nickel producer, is threatening the traditional way of life for indigenous communities and causing significant environmental damage. As global demand for nickel grows due to its use in stainless steel, mobile phones, and electric car batteries, conservationists warn that mining operations are leading to deforestation, soil erosion, and pollution of the sea. The government is urged to strengthen regulations and enforcement to ensure sustainable mining practices and protect the future of affected communities and the environment.

environment2 years ago

Global Climate Finance Reform at a Crossroads: Barbados PM Takes the Lead.

The divide between rich and poor countries over finance is threatening global efforts to tackle climate change and achieve sustainable development goals. Developing countries are calling for more financial support from developed nations to help them transition to cleaner energy and adapt to the impacts of climate change. However, developed countries are reluctant to provide the necessary funding, leading to an impasse that could have disastrous consequences for the planet. Global cooperation and a fair distribution of financial resources are needed to address this issue.

global-infrastructure-investment2 years ago

G7 Summit Launches Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment

The G7 leaders have reaffirmed their commitment to the Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment (PGII), a flagship infrastructure initiative that aims to mobilize hundreds of billions of dollars in infrastructure financing for low- and middle-income countries. The United States has mobilized $30 billion through grants, federal financing, and leveraging private sector investments towards PGII. The US announced new PGII projects to build out transformative economic corridors and drive infrastructure investments that can boost and connect economic development across multiple countries and sectors. Private sector representatives from Citi and Global Infrastructure Partners highlighted key flagship projects worth $4 billion that demonstrate how PGII aims to mobilize the private sector as drivers of quality global infrastructure and investment.

technology2 years ago

Apple pledges to use 100% recycled cobalt in batteries by 2025.

Apple has announced that by 2025, all batteries it designs will use entirely recycled cobalt, all magnets in its devices will use only recycled rare earth elements, and all circuit boards will have 100% recycled tin soldering and gold plating. The company's new commitment to accelerating its use of recycled materials is part of its overall aim to be entirely carbon neutral by 2030. Apple's CEO, Tim Cook, said the company will keep pressing forward in the belief that great technology should be great for users and the environment.

environment2 years ago

Paul Mitchell founder invests in man-made coral reefs.

Billionaire John Paul DeJoria has invested $1 million in a project to create man-made coral reefs that are more resilient to climate change. The reefs are made of PH-neutral concrete and are designed to promote biodiversity and protect coastlines. The first project was installed off the coasts of Antigua and Barbuda, and the team intends to build a facility on Barbuda to manufacture these reefs, which could then be installed anywhere around the world. Coral reefs are vital to sea life and human life, and the total economic value of coral reef services for the United States alone is over $3.4 billion annually.

environment2 years ago

U.N. prioritizes global water crisis amidst conflicts and climate change.

The United Nations held a global conference on water for the first time in 46 years, with a focus on addressing the world’s many water problems and making progress toward a goal of ensuring clean drinking water and sanitation for all people. About 40% of the world’s population is affected by water scarcity, according to the United Nations, and demand for water continues to grow. The conference also prominently featured discussions about nature-based solutions, such as restoring river floodplains and coastal wetlands, and dismantling concrete flood-control channels to allow stormwater to recharge aquifers.