Despite hosting over 14,000 known plant species1 , Amazonias's biodiversity remains significantly underutilized in commercial markets. Research shows that only about 30 native Amazonian food species regularly appear in markets2, and of the 1,097 native food plant species identified in Brazil, merely 5% have achieved significant commercial scale.3 This untapped potential … [Read more...] about Unlocking Amazonia’s Bioeconomy Through Gastronomy and Resilient Food Systems
resilience
Five Lessons from Enabling the Green Start-Up Ecosystem in LAC
Accessing capital has always been challenging for smaller and innovative early-stage companies providing climate and nature-based solutions in LAC. In many countries, the perception of financial and technological risks continues to impede innovative green activities and acts as a barrier for first movers in the market. Investments often exceed most investors’ risk appetites and … [Read more...] about Five Lessons from Enabling the Green Start-Up Ecosystem in LAC
Uruguay’s Commitment to Climate Action: A Story of Success
Uruguay’s success in climate action lies in its robust national policies, supported by strong private sector and civil society participation, which have embraced sustainability concepts. Complementing these efforts are ambitious projects backed by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). Uruguay's milestones and the challenges it tackles are built on aspects not always … [Read more...] about Uruguay’s Commitment to Climate Action: A Story of Success
Implementing Early Warnings for All in Caribbean Nations: Technical Pathways and Development Opportunities
As climate-related hazards intensify globally, strengthening early warning systems (EWS) has become crucial for protecting lives and building resilient communities. The United Nations' Early Warnings for All (EW4ALL) initiative exemplifies this urgent priority. The IDB actively supports this mission through loans and strategic technical cooperation projects across member … [Read more...] about Implementing Early Warnings for All in Caribbean Nations: Technical Pathways and Development Opportunities
Breaking it Down: COF Barbados Embrace Composting Initiative
As Barbados faces the pressing challenges of climate change, composting could be a powerful tool in preserving the island’s precious soil and securing a sustainable future. The island's history of soil degradation is deeply intertwined with its colonial past. Beginning in the 17th century, much of the natural forest cover was destroyed to make way for plantations that mainly … [Read more...] about Breaking it Down: COF Barbados Embrace Composting Initiative