Did you know that more than 800 million women and girls between the age of 15 and 49 are menstruating right now? Some of them are your co-workers, friends, partners and supervisors. For some, the topic can be an uncomfortable one, but it is also a central issue for women’s health and opportunity. To those in the developed world, menstruation can be a minor nuisance, … [Read more...] about Menstrual Hygiene and its Importance in Development
Four guiding principles to managing Natural Capital
Four guiding principles to managing Natural Capital for sustainability in Neotropical watersheds “Increased frequency of severe weather events”. This is a now familiar refrain from climate scientists, ecologist, and conservationists when speaking about the known impacts we can expect from climate change. What does this mean to those charged with making policies and managing … [Read more...] about Four guiding principles to managing Natural Capital
Four Safeguard Approaches for Ocean Conservation
This week, as we celebrate the World Oceans Day, I started to think about the importance of oceans and how frequently we forget about the critical role they play. The reality is that oceans are the home of nearly 2 million species. Marine life is so rich and extensive that it goes from the tiniest bacteria to the largest mammal that ever lived on the planet’s surface[1]. But … [Read more...] about Four Safeguard Approaches for Ocean Conservation
Can Mega-Infrastructure Energy Projects be Done Right?
After decades of planning and construction, SIEPAC (The Central American Electrical Interconnection System) was finally completed in 2014. It took longer than expected to come to life but on many levels, the 1,800km transmission line represented a boost for the region. It improved electrical markets and provided electricity and telecommunications for millions of residents … [Read more...] about Can Mega-Infrastructure Energy Projects be Done Right?
How a High Risk Project in Bolivia Found a Pathway to Success and Sustainability
The project has a lot going for it. In El Alto, Bolivia, IDB has provided a financial package of US$109 million to help bring drinking water to residents while at the same time improve irrigation for 7,000 farmers. Once complete, the integrated watershed will benefit over 260,000 people over the coming 10 years – about 10,000 in remote communities and the remainder in El Alto … [Read more...] about How a High Risk Project in Bolivia Found a Pathway to Success and Sustainability