carbon emissions

Africa is on the verge of a building boom. Will it be green?

by
Africa is on the verge of a building boom. Will it be green?

The building boom in African countries presents an opportunity to adopt green design techniques and climate-friendly materials to reduce emissions. However, challenges such as material shortages and under-investment hinder the transition to sustainable construction. Nigeria’s population is projected to double by 2050, creating a housing deficit, and innovative technologies are needed to green the building sector. Governments can play a key role by implementing mandatory building codes and investing in green alternatives.

Cyprus can become a leader in sustainability , – but we can’t afford to be complacent about climate change

by
Cyprus can become a leader in sustainability , – but we can’t afford to be complacent about climate change

Marios Tannousis is the CEO of Invest Cyprus, focusing on attracting and facilitating Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in Cyprus. Cyprus has committed to spending €500 million by 2026 to combat climate change and foster the green transition. Cyprus aims to become the best place in Europe to live, work, and do business by transitioning towards a renewable energy system and implementing Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria. The country is strategically positioned to help combat climate change in the Middle East and North Africa regions. Cyprus is working towards becoming a leader in sustainability and developing a circular zero-waste economy.

Shell says landmark climate ruling obstructs fight against climate change

by
Shell says landmark climate ruling obstructs fight against climate change

Shell argued in a Dutch court that a 2021 order to cut greenhouse gas emissions lacks legal basis and would hinder the fight against climate change. The order required Shell to reduce carbon emissions by 45% by 2030 from 2019 levels, including emissions from its products’ buyers and users. Shell’s lawyer stated that implementing the ruling would force the company to shrink its business and customers to switch to other fuel suppliers. Despite objections, the environmental group behind the case expressed confidence in convincing the judges that Shell must comply with international climate agreements. Shell recently revised its carbon reduction targets, aiming for a 15-20% reduction in net carbon intensity of its energy products by 2030. The court is expected to issue a verdict later this year, with a potential further appeal to the Supreme Court.

How businesses are turning ESG into a competitive advantage

by
How businesses are turning ESG into a competitive advantage

Businesses have the power and responsibility to tackle big issues like climate change, inequality, and social injustice.

UBS flags commercial real estate downturn as a top risk

by
UBS flags commercial real estate downturn as a top risk

UBS flagged the downturn in commercial real estate markets as one of the top and emerging risks facing the Swiss bank, with higher borrowing costs and a post-pandemic slump in demand for office space affecting the sector.

Global corporate tax competition challenges climate change mitigation – Nature Climate Change

by
Global corporate tax competition challenges climate change mitigation - Nature Climate Change

Countries have cut their corporate tax rates to attract foreign investment, leading to global changes in corporate tax rates. In 2021, OECD countries approved a global minimum tax policy to prevent tax competition. Implementing a global minimum tax rate of 15% could reduce global carbon emissions and decrease emissions in developing economies.