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Urban sustainability revolution

Environmental Responsibility
General

April 15, 2024

As the world continues to urbanize at an unprecedented rate, the concept of urban sustainability has emerged as a crucial framework for creating cities that are livable, resilient, and environmentally responsible. Urban areas are hubs of economic activity, cultural exchange, and social interaction, but they also face complex challenges such as pollution, congestion, inequality, and climate change.

At its core, urban sustainability seeks to balance the needs of present and future generations by promoting environmentally sound practices, fostering social equity, and ensuring economic prosperity. This holistic approach recognizes that cities are interconnected systems where actions in one area can have ripple effects across multiple dimensions. From transportation and energy to housing and waste management, every aspect of urban life plays a role in shaping the sustainability of our cities.

One of the central pillars of urban sustainability is environmental stewardship. Cities are major contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, air and water pollution, and habitat destruction. To mitigate these impacts, many cities are embracing renewable energy sources, implementing energy-efficient building codes, and investing in green infrastructure such as parks, green roofs, and permeable pavement. By reducing their carbon footprint and enhancing their natural ecosystems, cities can improve air and water quality, mitigate urban heat island effects, and enhance biodiversity.

Equally important is the pursuit of social equity and inclusion within urban communities. Despite their vibrancy and diversity, cities often suffer from inequalities in access to affordable housing, quality education, healthcare, and public services. Urban sustainability seeks to address these disparities by promoting inclusive planning processes, affordable housing initiatives, and equitable distribution of resources. By ensuring that all residents have access to safe and healthy living environments, cities can foster social cohesion, reduce crime rates, and enhance overall quality of life.

Another key aspect of urban sustainability is fostering economic resilience and prosperity. Sustainable cities recognize the interconnectedness of environmental, social, and economic factors, and seek to build resilient economies that can adapt to changing conditions and thrive in the long term. This may involve supporting local businesses, promoting green innovation and entrepreneurship, and investing in job training programs that prepare residents for the green economy of the future. By diversifying their economic base and embracing sustainable practices, cities can create new opportunities for growth and prosperity while safeguarding their natural and social assets.

Transportation is a critical component of urban sustainability, as it directly impacts air quality, traffic congestion, and carbon emissions. Many cities are investing in public transit systems, bike lanes, pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, and electric vehicle charging stations to promote sustainable mobility options and reduce reliance on private cars. By prioritizing active transportation and public transit, cities can improve air quality, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and enhance access to jobs, education, and recreational opportunities for all residents.

Waste management is another area where cities can make significant strides towards sustainability. Traditional linear models of consumption and disposal are no longer viable in a world facing finite resources and mounting environmental challenges. Sustainable cities are adopting circular economy principles, such as reduce, reuse, and recycle, to minimize waste generation, maximize resource efficiency, and promote closed-loop systems. By embracing circularity in their waste management practices, cities can reduce landfill waste, conserve natural resources, and create new economic opportunities through the recycling and repurposing of materials.

In addition to these core principles, urban sustainability encompasses a wide range of interconnected issues and challenges, including green building design, water conservation, food security, disaster preparedness, and public health. Sustainable cities recognize the importance of integrated approaches that address the root causes of urban problems and leverage synergies between different sectors and stakeholders. By fostering collaboration, innovation, and knowledge sharing, cities can develop holistic solutions that enhance the resilience, livability, and sustainability of urban environments.

Ultimately, the pursuit of urban sustainability is not just a lofty ideal, but a practical imperative for cities grappling with the complex challenges of the 21st century. By embracing sustainability principles and practices, cities can create healthier, more resilient, and more equitable communities that thrive in harmony with the natural world. From bustling metropolises to small towns, every city has the potential to be a beacon of sustainability and a model for others to follow. It is up to all of us to work together towards this shared vision of a sustainable urban future.

The imperative for 21st century development according to UNGA president

Business
News

Dr. Edward Mungai

April 15, 2024

The imperative for 21st century development according to UNGA president

In the discourse surrounding global development, few topics carry as much weight and urgency as sustainability. As we stand on the threshold of a new era filled with environmental challenges and socio-economic disparities, the call for sustainability resounds louder than ever. Dennis Francis, the President of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) advocates for sustainability as the linchpin for 21st-century development.

In his recent address, he articulated a vision where sustainability serves as the guiding principle shaping the trajectory of global progress.

Gone are the days when development could be pursued at the expense of the environment or marginalized communities. Francis asserts that sustainability must be the anchor upon which all development efforts are moored, ensuring that growth is not only prosperous but also equitable and environmentally responsible.

Central to Francis’s advocacy is the recognition that sustainability encompasses a broad spectrum of concerns, ranging from energy and economy to social equity and environmental conservation. It is not merely about implementing green technologies or reducing carbon emissions; rather, it is about fostering a holistic approach that addresses the interconnected challenges facing humanity and the planet.

One cannot discuss sustainability without acknowledging the existential threat posed by climate change. Rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and melting ice caps are just a few of the harbingers of a planet in distress. Francis emphasizes the urgency of mitigating climate change through decisive action, including transitioning to renewable energy sources, implementing carbon-neutral policies, and enhancing climate resilience measures.

Sustainability extends beyond environmental responsibility to encompass social and economic dimensions. Francis advocates for inclusive development that leaves no one behind, particularly marginalized communities and vulnerable populations. This entails equitable access to resources, opportunities, and essential services, thereby fostering social cohesion and reducing inequalities.

At the heart of his message is the conviction that sustainability is not a luxury reserved for affluent nations but a fundamental human right. Every individual, regardless of nationality or socio-economic status, deserves access to clean air, safe water, nutritious food, and a healthy environment. By prioritizing sustainability, we uphold our collective responsibility to safeguard the well-being of current and future generations.

The United Nations plays a significant role in advancing the sustainability agenda through initiatives such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The SDGs provide a blueprint for achieving a more sustainable and equitable world by 2030. Francis highlights the importance of aligning national policies and international cooperation with the SDGs to accelerate progress towards a sustainable future.

In addition to policy frameworks, Francis emphasizes the importance of individual and collective action in driving sustainability forward. Whether it is advocating for renewable energy, reducing consumption and waste, or promoting eco-friendly practices, every individual has a role to play in advancing sustainability. By mobilizing civil society, businesses, and governments, we can catalyze transformative change and build momentum towards a more sustainable world.

One of the key challenges in mainstreaming sustainability is overcoming entrenched interests and inertia. Industries reliant on fossil fuels, unsustainable practices, and short-term profit motives often resist change, citing economic concerns or technological barriers. Francis acknowledges these challenges but remains steadfast in his belief that the benefits of sustainability far outweigh the costs. By investing in green technologies, fostering innovation, and creating green jobs, we can unlock new opportunities for economic growth while safeguarding the environment.

Francis also recognizes the importance of international cooperation in addressing global sustainability challenges. Climate change, biodiversity loss, and environmental degradation are transboundary issues that require collective action and solidarity among nations. Through multilateral agreements, partnerships, and knowledge-sharing, countries can pool their resources and expertise to tackle shared challenges and achieve common goals.

Dennis Francis’s advocacy for sustainability can chart a course towards a more prosperous, equitable, and resilient future by placing sustainability at the forefront of 21st-century development. Whether through policy reforms, grassroots movements, or technological innovations, the journey towards sustainability requires collective effort and commitment.

Embracing clean cooking in Africa

Africa
Carbon offseting

Mary Muturi

April 15, 2024

Clean cooking is not just a modern trend; it is a fundamental shift towards healthier and more sustainable living, especially in regions like Africa where traditional cooking methods have long been the norm. The transition to clean cooking involves adopting technologies and practices that reduce indoor air pollution, promote energy efficiency, and minimize environmental impact. One of the primary motivations for embracing clean cooking in Africa is the substantial health benefits it offers. Traditional cooking methods, such as using open fires or rudimentary stoves fueled by biomass, contribute significantly to indoor air pollution. This pollution is a leading cause of respiratory diseases, particularly among women and children who are often exposed to smoke and harmful fumes for extended periods. Switching to clean cooking technologies like improved cookstoves or clean fuels such as LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) or biogas would drastically reduce indoor air pollution, thereby improving respiratory health and overall well-being.

Moreover, embracing clean cooking aligns with broader sustainability goals, particularly in terms of environmental impact. Traditional biomass cooking fuels, such as wood and charcoal, contribute to deforestation and environmental degradation. The widespread adoption of clean cooking technologies encourages the use of sustainable fuel sources, such as renewable biomass, biogas from organic waste, and solar energy. This shift not only reduces pressure on natural resources but also mitigates the adverse effects of deforestation, such as soil erosion, habitat loss, and climate change implications.

Energy efficiency is another compelling reason to embrace clean cooking in Africa. Clean cooking technologies are designed to be more energy-efficient than traditional methods, meaning they require less fuel to achieve the same cooking results. This efficiency not only saves households money on fuel costs but also reduces the time and effort spent on fuel collection, especially in rural areas where women and girls often bear the responsibility of gathering firewood or biomass for cooking. By optimizing energy use, clean cooking contributes to improved livelihoods and time allocation within communities.

The social impact of embracing clean cooking cannot be overstated, particularly regarding gender equality and empowerment. In many African households, women and girls are primarily responsible for cooking tasks, which often involve using traditional, inefficient stoves that pose health and safety risks. Transitioning to clean cooking technologies not only reduces these risks but also liberates women and girls from the arduous task of fuel collection, allowing them to invest their time and energy in education, economic activities, and community engagement. This shift towards gender-responsive clean cooking solutions foster empowerment and enhances social equity within households and communities.

Despite the numerous benefits of clean cooking, there are challenges to widespread adoption that must be addressed. Affordability remains a significant barrier for many households, particularly in rural and low-income areas where clean cooking technologies may be perceived as expensive or inaccessible. Education and awareness about the benefits of clean cooking also play a crucial role in encouraging adoption and behavior change. Governments, NGOs, and the private sector need to collaborate on initiatives that make clean cooking solutions affordable, accessible, and culturally appropriate for diverse communities across Africa.

Initiatives promoting clean cooking in Africa are already making significant strides. Subsidies, financing schemes, and incentive programs are being implemented to make clean cooking technologies more affordable and attractive to households. Awareness campaigns, community workshops, and training programs are raising awareness about the health, environmental, and economic advantages of clean cooking, encouraging communities to make the switch. Furthermore, local entrepreneurship and innovation in clean cooking technologies are driving market growth and diversity, creating opportunities for job creation and economic development.

For healthier, more sustainable, and fair futures, adopting clean cooking practices in Africa is not an option—rather, it is a need. Africa can set the standard for sustainable cooking practices that benefit people and the environment by advocating for renewable energy sources, putting emphasis on clean cooking technologies, investing in education and awareness, and encouraging cooperation among stakeholders. A cleaner, better future for future generations is made possible by the revolutionary path towards clean cooking, which also benefits communities, the environment, and public health.

How ChatGPT and generative AI are disrupting sustainability

Technology

Solomon Irungu

April 12, 2024

How ChatGPT and generative AI are disrupting sustainability

The burgeoning field of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI), while remarkable in its advancements, is drawing significant scrutiny over its environmental impact, particularly regarding water and energy consumption. An alarming examination reveals the extent to which tools like ChatGPT are contributing to this concern, as highlighted by Forbes, a University of California research study, and National Geographic.

ChatGPT, developed by OpenAI, exemplifies this issue, consuming an astonishing over half a million kilowatts of electricity daily to handle around two hundred million requests. This level of energy consumption is nearly equivalent to the daily usage of 180,000 U.S. households. Furthermore, a single interaction with ChatGPT demands about fifty centiliters of water, akin to the volume of one plastic water bottle.

Such figures are particularly troubling considering the rapid expansion of generative AI (genAI) product innovations, not only from OpenAI but also from tech giants and new players like Amazon, Anthropic, Cohere, Microsoft, and Nvidia. The overall electricity consumption of the AI industry is on track to soar, with estimates suggesting it could reach between 85-134 terawatt-hours (TWh) annually by 2027.

A policy report from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) sheds light on the varying water footprints of AI, which differ substantially based on the geographic location of its training and hosting. In Microsoft’s global data centers, for instance, AI’s water usage ranges from 1.8 to 12 liters per kilowatt-hour of energy consumed. This variance underscores the pressing need for more water-efficient genAI infrastructures and the development of energy-efficient technological innovations.

Water, humanity’s most critical and scarce resource, accounts for merely 2.5% of the planet’s total volume, with over half of that being frozen. Given that agriculture consumes 70% of our accessible freshwater, the looming water scarcity by 2050—expected to affect two-thirds of the global population—highlights the urgent need for sustainable practices. This scenario paints a stark picture of the challenges lying ahead in balancing technological innovation with environmental stewardship.

The discourse calls for immediate action from government leaders, board directors, and CEOs to pressure technology companies towards more sustainable and ethical practices. As the OECD newsletter emphasizes, the involvement of the public in AI policy matters is crucial to fostering a responsible approach to the development and deployment of AI technologies, ensuring that the march towards innovation does not come at the expense of our planet’s most vital resources.

60% of senior procurement professionals have embraced sustainability

Business

Dr. Edward Mungai

April 12, 2024

60% of senior procurement professionals have embraced sustainability

In a recent survey conducted by Sedex, a sustainability software provider, it was found that a commendable 60% of senior procurement leaders at North American companies are integrating sustainability into their procurement operations. This survey, which included over 250 procurement leaders who are not Sedex customers, conducted at the end of 2023, reveals a positive shift towards sustainable business practices. Moreover, 63% of the respondents acknowledged the direct impact of meeting sustainability targets on their performance evaluations or compensation, underscoring the growing recognition of sustainable practices in business operations.

Maurizio Capuzzo, the Chief Marketing Officer at Sedex, emphasized the importance of this trend, stating, “These findings highlight the commitment of a significant portion of businesses to their social and environmental performance. It’s encouraging to see that many executives are aligning ESG commitments with operational goals, embedding sustainable practices firmly within their organizations.”

This shift towards sustainability comes at a time when supply chains are under pressure to reduce costs, with both consumers and governments increasingly valuing sustainability. Despite the challenging environment, where cost reduction has become a top priority for procurement professionals, as identified in the 2024 Procurement Key Issues report by The Hackett Group, a substantial number of companies are not sidelining sustainability. In fact, the Sedex survey found that half of the companies are considering sustainability in their business decisions, contrary to the trend where sustainability might be deemed an afterthought.

This engagement with sustainable practices is more crucial than ever, as public declarations by companies on their ESG commitments become increasingly common. According to research, 90% of companies in the Russell 1000 produce annual ESG reports, highlighting the growing emphasis on transparency and accountability in corporate sustainability efforts.

The Sedex survey also sheds light on the benefits of sustainable practices, with 34% of respondents recognizing the advantages of such measures in achieving long-term procurement goals, including supply continuity and competitive pricing. This acknowledgment points to a growing awareness of the importance of sustainability, not just as a moral or ethical consideration but as a strategic business imperative.

“In embracing sustainability initiatives, companies can unlock significant benefits,” Capuzzo added. “These include efficiencies in supply chain management, more effective ESG risk management, and an enhanced reputation that supports long-term, sustainable success.”

The survey’s results underscore the progress being made in bridging the gap between company commitments and the day-to-day realities of business operations. With a majority of procurement leaders acknowledging the importance of sustainability, there is a clear path forward for companies to continue integrating sustainable practices into their core operations, benefiting both the business and the wider community.

Report from America – Africa joint session on sustainability, trade and partnerships

Africa
Technology

Dr. Edward Mungai

April 11, 2024

Report from America – Africa joint session on sustainability, trade and partnerships

At the NewSpace Africa Conference held in Luanda, Angola, on its second day, a key session took place focusing on the enhancement of space cooperation, trade, and sustainability between the United States and Africa. This session drew upon the outcomes of prior engagements, such as the US-Africa Commercial Space Stakeholders Meeting and the US-Africa Space Forum, underscoring the transformative potential of space activities for communities across the globe.

Prominent figures from both the US and African sectors, including academia, government, and industry, convened to discuss avenues for collaboration in space ventures. Among the notable speakers were H.E. Prof Mohamed Belhocine of the African Union Commission, Deputy Secretary Hon Don Graves from the U.S. Department of Commerce, and Gabriel Swiney from the Office of Space Commerce, along with representatives from NASA, the U.S. International Trade Administration, and the African Space Council.

The dialogue underscored the United States’ commitment to supporting Africa’s burgeoning space program and explored the impact of space commerce on economic development. Deputy Secretary Graves highlighted the critical role of space-based technologies in enabling governance and economic growth in African nations, pointing to infrastructure projects like the Lobito Corridor as examples of space intelligence application.

The discussions also emphasized collaborative efforts to leverage space for mutual benefits, particularly in areas like agriculture and early warning systems. Bill Nelson’s message reinforced the importance of harnessing space technologies for infrastructural development.

The panel explored various dimensions of US-Africa space relations, from diplomacy and commercial cooperation to space development and security. Initiatives and policies promoting the African space ecosystem were outlined, with a focus on responsible and peaceful use of outer space.

Significantly, the session delved into the importance of involving youth in space exploration and the need for sustainable space regulations. Education initiatives such as NASA’s GLOBE project were highlighted for their role in enhancing environmental and scientific understanding among African students.

Gabriel Swiney detailed NOAA’s contributions to climate change adaptation and sustainable fisheries, showcasing the use of open-source data to support African nations in these endeavors.

The US-Africa space cooperation dialogue culminated in a panel featuring Dr. Tidiane Ouattara, who emphasized aligning diplomatic and developmental initiatives with Africa’s priorities. The discussion highlighted the necessity of building capacities and fostering inclusive growth through education and innovation.

Reflecting on these comprehensive discussions, the session illuminated lessons for Africa in navigating its space ambitions. The strategic alignment of Africa’s needs with global space partnerships, the emphasis on education and capacity building, and the leveraging of space technologies for developmental and environmental objectives stand out as crucial pillars.

These insights underscore the potential for Africa to harness space technologies for sustainable development, drawing from the collaborative frameworks and initiatives discussed. As Africa aspires to strengthen its position in the global space arena, the foundations laid by such dialogues will be instrumental in realizing its space aspirations and contributing to a sustainable future.

African Development Bank’s MicroGREEN Project to benefit entrepreneurs in Ghana and Senegal

Africa
Business

Lisa Matata

April 9, 2024

African Development Bank’s MicroGREEN Project to benefit entrepreneurs in Ghana and Senegal

A significant step was taken by The African Development Bank (AFDB) towards fostering inclusive economic growth and addressing the challenges faced by marginalized communities. The AfDB has allocated a grant of $999,000 through its Youth Entrepreneurship and Innovation Multi-Donor Trust Fund (YEI MDTF). This funding will bolster the implementation of the MicroGREEN project, aimed at creating green job opportunities for women, youth, and people with disabilities in Ghana and Senegal.

The MicroGREEN project serves as a symbol of empowerment, seeking to provide up to 500 green job opportunities and business development services to those often overlooked in traditional employment landscapes. The initiative targets individuals involved in managing natural resource sectors, including agroforestry, fisheries, and biodiversity. By focusing on these sectors, the project not only promotes sustainable environmental practices but also offers avenues for economic advancement to those in need.

One of the project’s core objectives is to equip at least 1,000 youth, aged 15-35 years, with entrepreneurship capacities and business skills. With a particular emphasis on female youth (60%), people with disabilities/special needs (10%), and other youth (30%), the MicroGREEN project aims to create a diverse and inclusive workforce that reflects the rich tapestry of African society. Through tailored training programs and support services, participants will be empowered to establish and sustain their micro-enterprises effectively.

Implemented by Invest in Africa, a renowned non-profit organization committed to fostering SME growth and creating prosperous economies across the continent, the MicroGREEN project benefits from the organization’s extensive expertise in market access, skills development, and access to finance. This partnership ensures that beneficiaries receive comprehensive support, from the inception of their entrepreneurial journey to the scaling of their businesses.

The significance of the MicroGREEN project extends beyond mere job creation; it represents a shift towards a more inclusive and sustainable economic model. The project not only enhances employment opportunities but also ensures the long-term viability of micro-enterprises by leveraging value chain-based SME development models. The project also fosters greater social cohesion and reduces inequalities, paving the way for more resilient and vibrant communities by integrating marginalized groups into the economic ecosystem.

The African Development Bank’s commitment to youth empowerment and entrepreneurship is further highlighted by the establishment of the Youth Entrepreneurship and Innovation Multi-Donor Trust Fund in 2017. This initiative was meant to promote innovation and create durable and sustainable jobs for the continent’s youth. Through strategic partnerships and targeted interventions, the trust fund supports the Bank’s overarching Jobs for Youth in Africa Strategy, which aims to create 25 million jobs and equip 50 million youth with employable and entrepreneurial skills by 2025.

As we navigate the complex challenges of the 21st century, initiatives like the MicroGREEN project offer hope, demonstrating the transformative power of inclusive economic development. It offers us an opportunity to not only unlock new sources of innovation and productivity but also foster a more equitable and resilient society by harnessing the untapped potential of marginalized groups.

The MicroGREEN project represents a tangible manifestation of the African Development Bank’s unwavering commitment to youth empowerment, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development.

What Africa can learn from Asia’s sustainability innovations in bioeconomy

Africa

Dr. Edward Mungai

April 9, 2024

What Africa can learn from Asia’s sustainability innovations in bioeconomy

The drive toward sustainability is reshaping industries worldwide, with the bioeconomy at the forefront of this transformation. The bioeconomy, which leverages biological resources like crops, forests, and microorganisms for food, materials, and energy, is increasingly seen as a critical path to address climate change. Singapore-based RGE is pioneering this shift in Asia by integrating sustainable solutions into its operations, from renewable energy projects to enhancing community livelihoods. This approach not only advances environmental stewardship but also underscores the potential for sustainable economic models.

RGE’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its dedication to conserving ecosystems and improving local communities’ quality of life. This is particularly notable in Indonesia, where RGE has implemented innovative practices like drone monitoring of seedlings and funding for schools, highlighting a balance between commercial production and nature conservation. Such initiatives reflect a broader movement towards a circular, low-carbon economy, where waste is minimized, and resources are reused and recycled.

The lessons from Asia’s bioeconomy transformation hold significant implications for Africa, a continent rich in biodiversity and natural resources but facing severe challenges from climate change. African nations can draw inspiration from RGE’s model, particularly in areas such as forestry management and renewable energy utilization. Adopting a high conservation value policy, similar to RGE’s approach, could help African countries protect their valuable ecosystems while still harnessing their economic potential.

Moreover, RGE’s production-protection model, where sustainably managed plantations protect conservation and restoration areas, could offer a viable blueprint for African countries to balance economic development with environmental preservation. This model demonstrates how commercial interests and conservation efforts can coexist, providing income for local communities while preventing deforestation and habitat loss.

Africa’s abundant sunlight and rainfall, akin to Indonesia’s climate, offer a fertile ground for rapid bio-resource growth, making it well-suited for bioeconomy initiatives. The continent could leverage these natural advantages to develop bio-based industries, like RGE’s operations in Asia. This would not only contribute to global sustainability efforts but also stimulate local economies, create jobs, and improve living standards.

Furthermore, RGE’s engagement with local communities, through education and alternative employment opportunities, offers valuable insights into how African nations can involve communities in sustainability initiatives. Programs like the “fire-free village” initiative could be adapted to African contexts to address issues such as land clearing and forest fires, promoting a culture of environmental responsibility.

In transitioning towards a bioeconomy, it is crucial for African leaders, policymakers, and businesses to prioritize sustainable practices that align with the continent’s unique environmental, social, and economic landscapes. Collaborations between governments, industries, and communities will be essential to ensure that Africa’s bioeconomy development is inclusive, sustainable, and beneficial for all stakeholders.

By learning from Asia’s advancements in bioeconomy and sustainability, Africa has the opportunity to chart its own path towards a greener future. This journey will require innovation, commitment, and cooperation, but the rewards—a sustainable, resilient, and prosperous Africa—are well worth the effort.

New MOU by MarCNoWA and GGPEN set to improve sustainability

Africa

Solomon Irungu

April 9, 2024

New MOU by MarCNoWA and GGPEN set to improve sustainability

Professor Boateng Onwona-Agyeman, who leads the GMES and Africa Marine and Coastal Areas Management for North and West Africa (MarCNoWA) Project from the University of Ghana, has partnered with Dr Zolana Joao, the head of the Angola National Space Programme Management Office (GGPEN), through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This partnership is dedicated to improving the use of Earth Observation (EO) data for managing coastal and marine resources and to build capacities in these areas as part of Phase 2 of the GMES and Africa Project.

The signing of this MoU took place at the 2024 NewSpace Africa Conference, with notable attendees including H.E. Mário Augusto da Silva Oliveira, Angola’s Minister of Telecommunications, Information Technologies, and Social Communication (MINTTICS), and Mahaman Bachir Saley, a Senior Scientific Officer at the African Union Commission.

This agreement aims to create a collaborative environment that enables the sharing of knowledge and resources between the two parties. It seeks to enhance the management of coastal and marine resources through the development and deployment of innovative applications. These applications will aid in monitoring oceanographic variables, protect fishing areas from unlawful activities, and identify vulnerabilities within coastal zones.

Additionally, the MoU emphasizes the importance of capacity building, sharing expertise, and strengthening the abilities of both individuals and institutions in Angola and the surrounding region. This will be achieved through focused efforts on the utilization of EO data and the development of relevant applications.

Indigenous communities in Liberia resist carbon credit deal threatening their lands

Africa

Lisa Matata

April 8, 2024

Indigenous communities in Liberia resist carbon credit deal threatening their lands

In Liberia’s lush forests, where generations of Indigenous communities have found sustenance and livelihoods, a looming threat now casts a shadow over their way of life. The Liberian government’s decision to sell off a sizable portion of the country’s land to Dubai-based company Blue Carbon has sparked outrage and resistance among local populations.

The deal, encompassing about 10% of Liberia’s territory, aims to preserve forests by selling carbon credits to offset polluters’ emissions. However, this model, dubbed “carbon colonialism” by activists, has raised concerns about its actual climate benefits and its disregard for Indigenous land rights.

Community leaders voiced their concerns over the lack of legal protections and consultation in the agreement. Activists argue that the Liberian government’s decision violates local land ownership laws and fails to consider the interests of Indigenous populations who depend on the forests for their survival.

Similar controversies have arisen in other African countries where Blue Carbon operates. Reports from Kenya reveal Indigenous populations being evicted to make room for carbon credit projects, drawing criticism from human rights groups for their opaque and culturally destructive nature.

Simon Counsell, an expert on conservation projects, highlights the alarming lack of transparency and consent in these agreements. He emphasizes the ethical and legal implications of such deals, which often result in human rights abuses and undermine local communities’ livelihoods.

While Africa’s natural resources are significant in combating climate change, the exploitation of these resources without respecting Indigenous rights poses a moral dilemma. Cash-strapped governments are enticed by the financial gains of conservation initiatives, despite mounting concerns about their impact on local populations.

In Liberia, opposition from communities and activists led to the halt of the Blue Carbon deal under the previous government. However, the future of the agreement remains uncertain under the new administration, leaving affected communities in limbo.

Emmanuel Yarkpawolo, Liberia’s Environmental Protection Agency director, acknowledges the flaws in the rushed agreement and pledges to develop regulations that prioritize environmental sustainability and Indigenous rights.

The opacity surrounding Blue Carbon’s operations raises further questions about the accountability of such ventures. Critics also question the effectiveness of carbon offsetting, pointing out flaws in the concept of “additionality” and the temporary nature of carbon storage in forests. Furthermore, the displacement caused by conservation projects may inadvertently contribute to deforestation elsewhere, offsetting any potential climate benefits.

As Indigenous communities in Liberia and across Africa continue to resist the encroachment on their lands, the debate over the ethics and efficacy of carbon credit deals underscores the complex interplay between environmental conservation, economic interests, and human rights.

It is essential to note that the concept of carbon credits itself is not inherently negative. When implemented transparently and with genuine stakeholder engagement, carbon offset projects can contribute to both environmental conservation and community development. Involving local communities in decision-making processes and ensuring their rights are respected are crucial steps toward achieving sustainable and equitable outcomes. Meaningful consultation with Indigenous groups, whose traditional knowledge often holds valuable insights into forest management, can lead to more effective and culturally sensitive conservation efforts. Carbon credit projects can foster genuine environmental stewardship while uplifting the livelihoods of those directly impacted by such initiatives by empowering local communities as partners in conservation initiatives.

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