This is the standard phase we hear or say after seeing the results of a river’s strong swell. Floods that affect cities, forcing thousands of families out of their homes, floods in which they lose the majority of their belongings, floods in which economic activity is suspended and, as a result, income is diminished: These effects all form part of the dynamic of ecosystems, and … [Read more...] about This flood was a disaster!
Infrastructure and Sustainable Landscapes
What could Climate Change mean for Hydropower in Central America?
One of the most important challenges that Central America (and the LAC region in general) faces this decade is being able to close the infrastructure gap with investments that are sustainable and climate resilient, while encouraging economic growth in the region. In an era of climate change, where too much or too little water is likely to be a leading issue, a sector that is … [Read more...] about What could Climate Change mean for Hydropower in Central America?
How Transportation Affects Nature and Vice Versa
We often ask ourselves, what do ecosystem services have to do with transportation? At the IDB, when we hear that the Environment, Rural Development, Disaster Risk Management Division (RND) has a program to mainstream biodiversity and ecosystem services into productive sector and infrastructure (BIO Program), we might well ask: “Is this another futile initiative?” That’s why I … [Read more...] about How Transportation Affects Nature and Vice Versa
Infrastructure and Biodiversity in the Guiana Shield
"Aerial view from rain forest" - © COPYRIGHT: Pete Oxford Photography How can we promote sustainable infrastructure? Infrastructure it’s just not a matter of building more, it’s a matter of enhancing competitiveness for economic growth and delivering much needed energy, water and sanitation, transport and communication services to growing cities. How that infrastructure … [Read more...] about Infrastructure and Biodiversity in the Guiana Shield
Water Management: an Urgent Agenda Following the Canal Expansion
The excitement raised by the launch of the Panama Canal’s expansion and the astonishment of some 40 thousand individuals that were moved as they watched a gigantic Cosco Shipping Panama sail by are still palpable. However, as the celebrations die down, we must focus on the challenges Panama faces in the wake of this new era. Without question, one of its main challenges is water … [Read more...] about Water Management: an Urgent Agenda Following the Canal Expansion