Brazil, China and India have the dubious honor of becoming the first nations to directly contradict the pledges made at the Rio+20 summit last month. All 193 member states of the UN signed the declaration in Rio which included: “We recognize that the phase-out of ozone-depleting substances is resulting in a rapid increase in the use and release of high global-warming … [Read more...]
Rio+20 an epic fail, say civil society groups
As Rio+20 came to a close earlier this week, civil society groups from across the globe were quick to condemn world leaders - particularly from rich countries - for failing to live up to their promises or offer new vision. "Just like in climate negotiations, the EU dresses up its own economic interests as ambitious new ideas when in reality they came without the political … [Read more...]
New balance sheet for wealth of nations
The world’s fixation on economic growth ignores a rapid and largely irreversible depletion of natural resources, which will seriously harm future generations. This is according to a report, which on 17 June in Rio, unveiled a new indicator aimed at encouraging sustainability - the Inclusive Wealth Index (IWI). True state of the nation's wealth The IWI, which looks beyond … [Read more...]
Ethical labelling proves a necessity
With the strongest economy and a growing middle-class in its urban centres, South Africa has the largest market for “ethical” products on the continent. Therefore, there is an urgent need for proper food labeling, to avoid 'greenwashing' and to benefit farmers that really do offer ethically produced food. The environmental and social impacts of modern society’s reckless … [Read more...]
Science and technology to develop capacity in developing countries
Last week, WIPO (World Intellectual Property Organization) Director General Francis Gurry and UNIDO (United Nations Industrial Development Organization) Director General Kandeh Yumkella met to strengthen their cooperation around global innovation. According to the announcement released by both parties, it was agreed that “the two organizations should collaborate on … [Read more...]
