Hurricane Matthew just swept across the Caribbean, leaving behind destruction and crumbled infrastructure. In Haiti, impassable roads and destroyed bridges between the capital Port-au-Prince and the areas most impacted by the hurricane pose the biggest challenge in reaching the affected population. The overall damage of the hurricane is estimated in the billions of dollars. … [Read more...] about Green infrastructure: protect your oceanfront with a coral reef
Climate change
Can an entire city switch to LED lights?
Over the past few years, LEDs have become increasingly common, as they provide long-lasting performance for a fraction of the energy used by traditional lights. Think of the latest generation of LED TVs, modern car lights or even household light bulbs. Many LEDs today have an expected lifespan of over 20 years while using 80% less energy to produce the same amount of light. … [Read more...] about Can an entire city switch to LED lights?
Investing in water and sanitation is no dirty business
In an era of smart cities, 3D printing and artificial intelligence, The Economist awarded the “humble loo” the world’s greatest innovation. Why? It has saved the lives of billions. The World Health Organization concluded that one dollar spent on sanitation generates a return of $5.50. In Latin America the return climbs over $7.00 – the second highest after East Asia. When … [Read more...] about Investing in water and sanitation is no dirty business
Combining cattle and forestry: five benefits of silvopastoralism
One month ago I was in Paraguay, visiting with cattle producers to study an innovative production system. Even in spring, Paraguay is hot, and I was soon sweating under the intense sun. If I suffer from a twenty minute walk in the sun, how would cows that spend all day outside feel? … [Read more...] about Combining cattle and forestry: five benefits of silvopastoralism
“One point five to stay alive” – Three ways the Caribbean’s private sector can mobilize climate action
One goal of the upcoming Paris negotiations is to limit global temperature rise to two degrees Celsius. The Caribbean is aiming even lower, saying it much achieve, “One point five to stay alive.” The Caribbean loses up to five percent of GDP annually due to natural disasters linked to climate change. Rising sea levels and water temperatures, ocean acidification and extreme … [Read more...] about “One point five to stay alive” – Three ways the Caribbean’s private sector can mobilize climate action