At the Solar Indaba last in Cape Town the Green Times covered most talks in the interest of our readers. Here is a panel discussion which looked at why foreign companies would choose to invest in SA's solar industry, and why not other developing markets. Are we as government, not only the DTI but the DOE more specifically, creating an environment to attract investment into … [Read more...]
Green Savings Bond helps consumers shape SA’s future
Nedbank has developed a new investment product for green-minded South Africans who want to take responsibility for their financial security, but also make a contribution towards protecting the environment. The dual-purpose Green Savings Bond, a first for the country, encourages people to save more, and at the same time participate in funding renewable energy products in the … [Read more...]
New standards for building green in developing countries
The Green Building Council of South Africa (GBCSA), in conjunction with the World Green Building Council (WGBC), has announced that they are developing a framework and new rating tool category for green buildings that will make “green” certification ratings even more relevant to the unique circumstances of developing countries. The Social and Economic Development framework … [Read more...]
Economic benefits of ecosystems and biodiversity
The history of post-War economic growth has been one of unsustainable consumption: unsustainable for the planet's ecosystems, for its species diversity, and indeed, for the human race. By some recent yardsticks of sustainability, our global ecological footprint has doubled over the last 40 years to the point that, if the whole human population consumed at this rate, we would … [Read more...]
Cycling to solarise Africa
One in four people on this planet, including 550 million Africans living in rural areas, do not have access to electricity. This lack inhibits their economic development. Electricity can power their mobile phones, light their homes, and pump up water for irrigation. Renewable energy provides an affordable and eco-friendly way to improve their lives. The Dutchman, Rick de … [Read more...]
