Sixteen provincial-level regions, including Xinjiang, Jiangxi and Hubei, recorded their highest temperatures on record since 1961, the agency said, reflecting the extent of the warming across the country.

Summer conditions were particularly severe. From June to August, the national average temperature stood at 22.3°C, also 1.1°C above normal and tied with 2024 as the hottest summer China has experienced in more than 60 years.

Alongside the rising heat, Beijing also logged its highest annual rainfall since 1961. Both the duration and total precipitation of the rainy season in northern China reached historic highs, highlighting the growing volatility of the country’s climate.

Emissions

The record warmth comes as China remains the world’s largest annual greenhouse gas emitter . In 2020, it released 12.3 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent, accounting for 27% of global greenhouse gas emissions, according to data from the World Resources Institute’s CAIT database.

Despite its emissions profile, China continues to frame itself as “the world’s largest developing country” in international climate negotiations. 

Under the 2009 Copenhagen Accord, China committed to cut its carbon intensity by 40-45% from 2005 levels by 2020 and to source 15% of its energy from low-carbon sources. Its former climate envoy, Xie Zhenhua, has said carbon intensity fell by 48.4% by 2020, with non-fossil fuels accounting for 15.9% of primary energy consumption.

Countries including the United States have called for a reassessment of responsibilities between developed and developing nations, arguing that China’s status as an upper middle-income, and soon potentially high-income, economy should be reflected in its climate ambitions.

The proposal was discussed at a meeting chaired by deputy governors Jakkapan Piwngam and Tavida Kamolvej on December 19.

At the heart of the plan is PM2.5 — fine particulate matter small enough to enter the bloodstream — which regularly surges in the capital during the dry season. 

Officials said six-wheeler and larger trucks contribute disproportionately to these pollution peaks, particularly when weather conditions trap emissions over the city.

Under the proposed rules, trucks with six or more wheels would be barred from entering designated districts when PM2.5 levels reach hazardous thresholds. The ban would be triggered when pollution readings move into the “red zone,” defined as more than 75.1 micrograms per cubic metre, in at least five districts, with a two-day advance warning.

If PM2.5 levels reach orange or red in multiple districts and the ventilation rate falls below 3,000 square metres per second, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) would issue a citywide notice.

Officials said the system is designed to be responsive rather than permanent, allowing economic activity to continue while acting decisively during pollution emergencies. Forecasts, wind direction and other environmental factors will be factored into decisions on when to activate the ban.

The proposal builds on a pilot LEZ scheme tested earlier this year around the Ratchadaphisek Ring Road. During the trial, only trucks registered under the city’s “Green List” — alongside electric, natural gas and EURO 5–6 vehicles — were allowed to enter the zone.

In 2025 alone, nearly 58,000 six-wheeler and larger vehicles were registered under the Green List programme, underscoring both the volume of heavy traffic and the potential impact of tighter controls.

“This peaceful protest is important because it bypasses all differences. It triggers humanity and reminds us of our shared responsibility to protect nature,” she told local media.

Her supporters gathered throughout the challenge, encouraging her when fatigue set in and helping to cover the costs required for Guinness World Records officials to observe the attempt. At one point, Muthoni nearly fell asleep but was kept alert by those cheering her on.

She said the protest was aimed at emphasising the growing risks posed by climate change and the continued loss of forest cover in Kenya and across Africa. Despite contributing relatively little to global carbon emissions, Africans are among the most vulnerable to climate-related shocks such as droughts and extreme weather.

She explained that her black clothing represented African resilience and protest , green stood for regeneration and reforestation, red symbolised indigenous resistance, and blue symbolised the struggle to protect water sources and oceans.

Other parts of the region are under strain as well, with Malaysia witnessing thousands displaced by repeated floods, while Vietnam and the Philippines have each endured a succession of storms and landslides that have killed hundreds this year.

Scientists say the scale of the destruction is consistent with long-term climate trends. 

The World Meteorological Organization reported that record-high carbon dioxide levels in 2024 accelerated global heating, driving more severe storms this year. Asia is warming nearly twice as fast as the global average, and warmer oceans are feeding storms that now form more quickly and arrive later in the year.

“Storms may not be more frequent, but they are becoming more intense and unpredictable,” said Benjamin Horton of the City University of Hong Kong.

Those shifts are overwhelming governments. The Asian Disaster Preparedness Center notes that countries in the region still emphasize response over prevention, leaving them with shrinking lead time as extreme weather becomes more volatile. Indonesia is vowing to revoke mining permits for companies that broke environmental rules after the deadly floods in Sumatra. In the Philippines, a sweeping probe into anomalous flood-control projects has already triggered congressional resignations and Cabinet reshuffles. Since 2022, nearly 9,900 flood-control works in the Philippines have come under scrutiny after reports that many were “ghost projects,” substandard, overpriced or left unfinished.

In Sri Lanka, unregulated hillside development has contributed to deadly landslides in plantation areas. In Indonesia, satellite data show Aceh, North Sumatra and West Sumatra have lost more than 19,000 square kilometres of forest since 2000 — a level of deforestation that researchers say likely intensified recent floods.

Vietnam estimates more than $3 billion in losses from storms and flooding this year. Thailand reports at least $47 million in agricultural damage since August, with major flooding in the south potentially costing more than $780 million. Indonesia’s finance ministry puts its average annual disaster losses at $1.37 billion.

For countries like Sri Lanka, the burden is especially heavy: it contributes little to global emissions yet is among the most exposed to climate impacts, while still grappling with high foreign debt .

At the COP30 summit in Brazil last month, governments pledged to triple adaptation funding and target $1.3 trillion annually in climate finance by 2035. But developing nations argue the commitments fall far short of what’s needed — and past pledges have often gone unfulfilled.

Climate analysts say Southern Asia is nearing a critical point. The region is expanding renewable energy, but its continued dependence on fossil fuels and resource extraction leaves communities increasingly vulnerable as the floodwaters rise.

Authorities said there were no reports of deaths or injuries, but residents described a dramatic and frightening event, with the ground shaking and a column of smoke rising far above the desert basin.

The Toulouse Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre reported ash clouds reaching an altitude of about 14 kilometres and drifting across the Red Sea. Plumes were later detected moving towards Yemen and Oman, and further towards India and northern Pakistan.

Locals on the ground spoke of panic as the eruption began without warning. 

Ahmed Abdela, who lives in Afdera, said the explosion “felt like a sudden bomb had been thrown," leaving families running from their homes.

The region attracts visitors heading to the Danakil desert, known for its salt flats and volcanic landscapes. Travel was brought to a standstill, with stranded tourists unable to move through ash-covered roads.

Officials warned that, although human lives were spared, the consequences for pastoral communities could be severe. Local administrator Mohammed Seid said ashfall had smothered grazing land vital for livestock.

“Our animals now have little to eat,” he said, noting fears that herds may perish if conditions do not improve quickly. Most residents rely almost entirely on livestock for income and food.

The volcano stands roughly 500 metres above sea level within the East African Rift Valley, an area shaped by the slow separation of tectonic plates and frequent seismic activity.

According to the Smithsonian Institution’s Global Volcanism Program, Hayli Gubbi has no recorded eruptions during the Holocene – the geological epoch that began around 12,000 years ago – making Sunday’s event the first known in human history .

“Ghana, Niger and Nigeria were chosen due to their varied ecological situations and climates, while all being in West Africa,” the report titled, ' From roots to rivers: How deforestation impacts freshwater access ' said.

Across the three West African countries, more than 122 million people, about 45% of the combined population, are currently at risk from unsafe surface water, the study estimates. The number of people facing high water risk has risen by over 20 million in the past five years.

“Across all three countries, the number of people exposed to this risk is increasing. This is especially significant in urban areas where, as well as the low-quality water supplies, there is a much higher demand,” the report stated.

In Niger and Nigeria , the loss of every 1,000 hectares (ha) of forest is correlated with an average loss of 9.25 ha of surface water, according to the analysis. Nigeria alone recorded 324,000 ha of vegetation loss over the study period, roughly equivalent to an area the size of the city of Birmingham each year, the report says.

The study noted, “The drivers of deforestation in the region are complex and intersect with issues of poverty, marginalisation and climate change. Unsustainable land use practices, particularly agriculture and charcoal harvesting, are key contributors to vegetation loss, often driven by poverty and food insecurity. Inadequate land tenure and forest protection laws, as well as governance models which exclude traditional rights holders, worsen the situation further.”

In Niger, 99.5% of available surface freshwater is judged to be at risk from sedimentation and poor quality, making it unsafe to drink directly, the report finds.

The report argues that forest and water policies should be designed together, rather than in isolation. It points to evidence from Niger suggesting that reforestation can help reverse losses, in areas where 101,000 ha were restored, every additional 1,000 ha of vegetation was associated with an 11.6 ha increase in available surface water.

Not long after Kalmaegi exited the Philippine area of responsibility, Fung Wong emerged, which eventually developed into a super typhoon. Its effects on the Philippines were more subdued, though two were still reported dead, while half a million were displaced. 

Due to the extent of the typhoons, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has declared a 1-year state of national calamity for the country. Prices of essential products have also been put on freeze.

Situated beside the Pacific Ocean, the Philippines experiences an average of 20 tropical cyclones annually. It also sits on the so-called Ring of Fire, making it prone to seismic and volcanic activity. 

The study, which began collecting samples in 2022, found microplastics in every rainwater sample taken across the capital. Contamination levels averaged around 15 particles per square metre per day in coastal areas, showing that the problem is widespread.

BRIN researcher Muhammad Reza Cordova said the most common materials found were polyester from synthetic textiles, nylon, polyethene from plastic bags, polypropylene from packaging, and polybutadiene from vehicle tyres. 

These appeared mainly as fine fibres and small fragments. “If we can reduce excessive plastic use, it would already be a big step - though this requires effort from each of us personally,” said Cordova.

Scientists explained that the process occurs through atmospheric deposition, where lightweight plastic particles are lifted by wind and industrial emissions before being washed down by rain. 

“After the rain stops, the air is practically clean of microplastics. That is the safest time to go outside for activities like walking or exercising because you are breathing cleaner air. However, this effect doesn’t last very long - once surfaces dry, the microplastics will become airborne again, carried by the wind,” Cordova added.

The main contributors to Jakarta’s airborne microplastics include synthetic fabrics, vehicle emissions, degrading plastics in open spaces, and the open burning of plastic waste. 

Cordova said tackling the issue requires both systemic reform and public participation through better waste management and reduced plastic use. 

“What we can do now is mitigation - through campaigns promoting wiser plastic use and healthier lifestyles. Fifty years ago, we lived just fine without relying so heavily on plastic. So why can't we do it now?” he said.

The spill has spread across approximately eight kilometres of the river, affecting surrounding communities, including El Caballal in the Alamotemapache municipality. Already hit by severe flooding, residents now face a growing water crisis.

“We need water, and with the contamination, we know it’s going to take time. I don’t know how long, and it’s going to be even harder for us,” said Mario Garcia Osorio, a local resident. 

In response, the Mexican Navy has activated a Regional Contingency Plan with the support of the National Agency for Industrial Safety and Environmental Protection (ASEA). Around 300 personnel, aircraft, drones , and oil containment equipment have been deployed to the area to mitigate the damage.

Over three days, from September 28 to 30, authorities seized or destroyed 42 stationary engines, three hydraulic excavators, 13 motor pumps, and 14 hidden bunkers. A specialist Federal Police explosives unit also demolished four underground gold mines built to tap deep mineral veins.

The operation turned tense on its first day when armed miners opened fire on security forces. Officers responded with what the Ministry of Environment called “proportionate and technical” force, injuring two suspects who were later taken to the hospital. No security personnel were hurt. Viory reports that reinforcements are staying in the region to hunt down remaining armed groups, locate hidden machinery, and restore security.

Development of Indonesia’s new capital, Nusantara, will proceed without any moratorium, with three years remaining before the target to relocate the seat of government to the city of East Kalimantan, said Nusantara authority chief Basuki Hadimuljono. President Prabowo Subianto has ordered the acceleration of Nusantara's development, which already features a presidential palace and is expected to house the legislature and judiciary buildings by 2028. Around 5,000 people are working on Nusantara, which is intended to be a green and sustainable city, in contrast to the densely populated capital, Jakarta.

Trump’s tariff deal ‘not win-win’ for Indonesia — analyst

US President Donald Trump’s intimidation tactics toward President Prabowo Subianto have been effective in securing a lopsided trade agreement against Indonesia, an analyst said ahead of the Aug. 7 implementation of the deal. In a podcast quoted by Suara on Aug. 4, Syahganda Nainggolan of the Sabang-Merauke Circle Public Research Institute said that, unlike with Europe, Indonesia’s trade agreement with the US is not a “win-win situation.” This follows Prabowo’s move to remove tariffs on nearly all US goods, while Trump agreed only to reduce tariffs on Indonesian products to 19% from 32%.

Megawati urges democratic party to support Prabowo, stay critical

Former Indonesian president and Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) Chairwoman Megawati Soekarnoputri has urged support for the administration of President Prabowo Subianto, but reminded party members to remain critical of policies that may harm the public. PDIP was the ruling party when former president Joko Widodo was still in power. However, Widodo backed Gerindra Party’s Prabowo Subianto, now the Indonesian president, in the 2024 elections. Soekarnoputri was Indonesia’s president from 2001 to 2004.

Forest fires in West Kalimantan reportedly under control 

The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) reported that all fire hotspots in West Kalimantan have been extinguished as of August 2. BNPB Chief Lt. Gen. Suharyanto said they deployed air patrols and cloud seeding flights between July 4 and August 2, dispersing over 35 tonnes of seeding material. Authorities warned the public to remain alert as the dry season continues. While the situation’s now under control, Suharyanto urged continued vigilance as the dry season peaks.

Illegal imports drive Indonesian textile sector decline

Indonesia’s textile and filament yarn industry is under pressure due to illegal imports from China and the government’s rejection of the Anti-Dumping Import Duty (BMAD). Farhan Aqil of the Indonesian Filament Fibre and Yarn Producers Association (APSyFI) said the rejection of BMAD has led to factory closures and discouraged foreign investors despite earlier signs of interest. Additionally, the group reported that filament yarn imports have risen by up to 300% since 2017.

The report, tabled on July 3 by Omar Darboe, Upper Niumi, a co-chair of the Environment Committee, warned that unregulated livestock migration is driving environmental destruction, fueling land conflicts, and straining rural communities, Foroyaa reports.

“Both forests and grasslands in Gambia are increasingly under pressure from transhumance-related activities, such as cutting tree branches, uncontrolled use of water, farmland encroachment, and damage to planted seedlings,” Darboe told the Assembly.

He described alarming scenes of thousands of animals crossing into Gambian territory, particularly along the northern border with Senegal, resulting in overgrazed pastures and the loss of young saplings critical to climate restoration. “There are no formal agreements on migratory routes between The Gambia and Senegal,” Darboe said, adding, “Although discussions were held with the previous Senegalese government , concrete frameworks are still lacking.”

While transhumance has historically supported food security and trade, Darboe noted it is now being “abused due to unregulated movement and socio-economic pressures.” He cited climate change , erratic rainfall, and dwindling grazing resources in northern Senegal as primary drivers pushing herders into Gambia.

Beyond environmental damage, the report highlighted the introduction of invasive plant species transported by livestock . A study by scientists Lalisa Daguma and Peter Minang was cited, warning that these weeds “replace valuable forage species, further threatening biodiversity and agricultural sustainability.”

Darboe also drew attention to rising farmer-herder disputes, disease transmission among livestock, and a surge in rustling and illegal tree cutting, often carried out under cover of night to avoid detection.

Turtle conservationist Sulayman Njie said his team has been collecting data weekly along the coast from Banjul to Kartong, revealing hotspots where turtle deaths are especially severe. “Our team in Tanji usually records more turtle mortalities than in Gunjur and other coastal villages,” he noted.

In particular, areas near Ghana Town and Brufut see turtles regularly entangled in set nets, large nets left in the sea for up to 48 hours, in which turtles become trapped and drown, Foroyaa reports.

Speaking during a two-day training for fishermen in Tanji this week, Njie expressed deep concern about the scale of human-driven damage. “The rampant death of turtles in this country is all about human activities, honestly speaking. It’s we, the people who are doing our things without following the due respect of the law,” he said.

Highlighting the species’ vulnerability, Njie cited scientific data showing that out of every thousand turtle eggs laid, as few as 1% survive to adulthood. To improve those odds, his team has created a “turtle village” project where hatchlings are reared in tanks until they grow strong enough to be released. “If you can save four turtles up to that size and then release them, you increase their chances of survival. I’m not saying they won’t die, but their odds are better,” he explained.

Marine biologist Dawda emphasised the need to map turtle hotspot areas to inform fishermen and policymakers. “Mapping helps us locate, identify, and create awareness. These areas are biologically and ecologically important because they serve as breeding, spawning, and feeding grounds,” Dawda said.

In an assessment shared with the Cuban News Agency , specialists highlighted progress across critical sectors, including the manufacturing of refrigeration and air conditioning equipment, foam and aerosol production, and the technical maintenance of refrigeration systems. These efforts are aimed at cutting emissions of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), potent greenhouse gases widely used as refrigerants.

Mechanical Engineer Armando Lazaro Gomez Díaz, an OTOZ specialist and head of the Kigali Implementation Plan (KIP) Phase I project, emphasised that the current phase represents “a significant step toward fulfilling the nation’s international commitments regarding environmental preservation.”

“The success of this phase will depend on the coordinated and committed work of all parties involved,” Gomez Díaz said.

Cuba’s approach is led by the Ministry of Science , Technology, and Environment, the Office of Environmental Safety Regulation, and the OTOZ, which is attached to the Center for Information Management and Energy Development (CUBAENERGIA) of the Agency for Nuclear Energy and Advanced Technologies.

Desalination

Desalination is the removal of salt from seawater to produce drinking water.

A proven model: Israel’s desalination success

Israel produces 585 million cubic meters of desalinated water annually, of which 25% is drinking water. The country has largely overcome water scarcity through five coastal plants, with two more plants set to boost output to 900 million cubic meters by 2026, covering 85 to 90% of municipal and industrial needs. Israel has shifted from water stress to surplus, even exporting 200 million cubic meters to Jordan in a 2022 solar-water deal, coupled with a 90% wastewater recycling rate

“Desalination has ended our water worries,” said Tamar Zandberg, Israel’s Environmental Protection Minister, in an interview with Energy Monitor.

Global expansion and economic challenges

The global desalination market is projected to grow from $15.2 billion in 2022 to $22.5 billion by 2026, driven by demand in the US and China ( Global Industry Analysts, 2023 ). High costs remain a barrier since large-scale plants cost hundreds of millions to build, and operating expenses range from $0.50–$1.50 per cubic meter, with Israel’s Sorek B plant setting a low benchmark at $0.41/m3. These costs are less feasible for poorer nations, where project financing and labour expenses are less favourable, according to Christopher Gasson of Global Water Intelligence.

Sub-Saharan Africa faces a projected 163% surge in water demand by 2050, which exemplifies the challenge. While 186 desalination plants are under construction globally, most are in wealthier regions like the Middle East, where renewable energy adoption remains low, which is less than 20% in desert nations.

Energy and environmental hurdles

Desalination’s energy demands, accounting for 0.4% of global electricity and 10% in Israel, pose a significant obstacle. For desalination to align with net-zero goals, renewable energy must replace fossil fuels. It is estimated that solar-powered desalination could reduce costs from $2.60/m3 in 2015 to $1.05/m3 by 2050, making it more viable, a 2020 study by Christian Breyer reveals.

Innovations like Oneka’s wave-powered buoys , which use ocean motion to drive reverse osmosis, and Desolenator’s solar-powered, zero-liquid-discharge systems are reducing emissions and land use. Morocco’s planned desalination plant will serve 9.3 million people by 2030, and Namibia’s Walvis Bay project highlights growing adoption in Africa, according to FairPlanet.

A partial solution

The process is not a panacea but a vital tool that addresses immediate shortages, as seen in Israel and planned projects like Cape Town’s climate-resilient plant. Its high costs and energy demands limit accessibility for low-income nations. Environmental concerns, such as the impact of brine disposal on marine ecosystems, persist, though green innovations are mitigating these risks. Complementary strategies like water recycling, drip irrigation, and demand reduction can reduce reliance on desalination.

With 20,000 plants producing 25 billion gallons daily and a market projected to hit $37 billion by 2032, desalination is expanding. Water scarcity remains a top global threat, the World Economic Forum’s 2024 Global Risks Report notes.

For desalination to be a sustainable solution, it must be paired with renewable energy and equitable financing to ensure access for all.

Tanzania Electric Supply Company (Tanesco) is in preliminary talks with a private Zambian firm to establish an electricity export agreement, aiming to sell electricity to Zambia and potentially other countries. The deal, facilitated by Kanona Power Limited, is expected to offer a premium rate that exceeds Tanesco's current import costs from Ethiopia. With administrative approvals, the electricity trade could rapidly recoup costs from the Julius Nyerere Hydroelectric Project within four years. Tanesco currently generates 3,431 megawatts (MW) of power, primarily from hydro and gas, and aims to increase capacity by 2,463 MW by 2030 through renewable sources. 

Zambia records first mpox death 

Zambia has reported its first death linked to mpox, involving an eight-month-old infant who succumbed to complex pneumonia while receiving treatment in Lusaka. Health Minister Elijah Muchima announced that the country now has a total of 31 confirmed mpox cases, with seven new infections identified in the past week. Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral infection that spreads through close contact and contaminated surfaces. 

China-Zambia economic and technical agreement

China and Zambia have signed an agreement for economic and technical cooperation, enhancing their long-standing relationship. The deal, signed by Chinese Charge d'Affaires Wang Sheng and Zambian Finance Minister Situmbeko Musokotwane, sets a framework for future China-aided projects. Key initiatives include constructing three additional milling plants to boost food security and establishing 300 solar-powered water systems to address water shortages. A program for HIV testing kits and medication support is also in place. Wang highlighted ongoing efforts to revitalise the Tanzania-Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA) and reaffirmed China's commitment to fulfilling its promises to Zambia. Musokotwane emphasised the importance of this agreement for both countries' economic growth and technical advancement. 

Huawei partnership with Zambia’s tech ministry

Huawei has partnered with Zambia's Ministry of Technology and Science to launch its first smart village in Muchila, aimed at improving rural digitization through enhanced access to electricity and the Internet. This initiative aligns with Zambia’s Vision 2030 and aims to equip the next generation with digital skills vital for the fourth industrial revolution. The Smart Village Solution, utilising RuralStar technology for robust connectivity, enables better education and healthcare for rural communities. At the global showcase during MWC Barcelona 2025, Zambian Minister Felix C. Mutati emphasised the project's role in bridging inequalities and promoting sustainable economic development. 

Acidic leak in copper mine causes environmental crisis  

A severe environmental crisis has unfolded in Zambia following an acid leak at the Sino-Metals Leach Zambia copper mine, which occurred on February 18 when a waste dam collapsed. Approximately 50 million litres of toxic waste contaminated a tributary of the Kafue River, affecting areas over 100 kilometres downstream. The incident has raised alarms about pollution that threatens the health of millions, including about five million people who rely on the river for drinking water. The Zambian government has dispatched the air force to neutralise the acid with lime, while the mining company has pledged to cover cleanup costs. Local reports indicate drastic ecological changes, including dead fish and damaged crops. 

In recent developments, coffee prices have reached unprecedented heights, with a staggering surge to a 47-year peak driven by severe droughts in Brazil and Vietnam—two of the world's foremost coffee producers. This phenomenon is accentuated by the adverse effects of climate change and the El Niño weather pattern, causing researchers to project a potential reduction in suitable coffee-growing regions by nearly 50% by 2050. The current drought conditions in Brazil, characterised as historically intense, are causing significant detriment to crop yields, whilst Vietnam contends with comparable agricultural challenges. In response, major coffee companies like Nestle and Starbucks are diversifying their supply sources and amending their business models to adapt to these shifts. According to Inside Climate , the price of arabica beans has skyrocketed by nearly 70% this year, and this alarming trend highlights a grim agricultural outlook for coffee without prompt adaptation initiatives to mitigate climate change impacts.

Electricity production

On the energy front, the Santo Antonio hydropower plant in Brazil is witnessing a boost in electricity output following the alleviation of an unprecedented drought in the Amazon region, Oilprice.com reports. With the rainy season now underway, Eletrobras, the operator of the facility, has taken proactive measures to enhance water levels artificially. This development has empowered the hydropower plant to generate approximately 400 megawatts during peak drought months. Hydropower remains a cornerstone of Brazil's energy generation, constituting around 60% of the nation's electricity mix, augmented by wind and solar power. Despite the strain caused by drought on hydroelectric production, Brazil retains one of the cleanest energy profiles globally, with fossil fuels comprising merely 9% of its electricity output last year.

Oil sector growth

Brazil has also made strides in its oil sector, with the approval to auction pre-salt oil blocks—a strategic move intended to stimulate investment and bolster oil production in the region. For those keen on detailed insights, a wealth of information on various projects and companies operating within Latin America is available through subscription services, BN Americas reports.

Protection deal for Amazon forest

The environmental landscape faces grave challenges, particularly concerning the Soy Moratorium, a crucial measure aimed at safeguarding the Amazon rainforest. The moratorium has been under increasing pressure from Brazilian agribusiness, influential politicians, and global trading entities. Incepted in 2006, this voluntary agreement has effectively curtailed approximately 17,000 square kilometres of deforestation by banning soy purchases from areas deforested after 2008. Nonetheless, developments within the Brazilian Association of Vegetable Oil Industries (ABIOVE), which is considering reforms that could potentially diminish the moratorium's effectiveness, have raised concerns among conservationists. The Guardian reports that they argue that these proposed adjustments—which include monitoring at an individual field level—could create vulnerabilities that heighten deforestation risks. Environmental advocates assert that undermining the current moratorium could lead to dire consequences for Brazil's environmental commitments and the Amazon ecosystem, potentially resulting in escalated CO2 emissions and land conflicts.

Pesticide reduction and regulation

Lastly, the Brazilian government's attempts to launch its National Pesticide Reduction Program have faltered significantly, failing to materialise on the international observation of Pesticide Free Day, Human Rights Watch reports. Despite being conceived in 2014, substantial hurdles laid by the Ministry of Agriculture have thwarted efforts towards realisation, leaving scientists, activists, and farmers disillusioned. The initial proposal aimed to enhance monitoring protocols for pesticide exposure, tighten regulations, establish pesticide-free zones, eliminate tax benefits for pesticide usage, and advocate for agroecological alternatives. Noteworthy proposals include the application of the precautionary principle when evaluating pesticides and banning substances no longer permitted in other countries. Moreover, recent investigations unveiled the frequency of meetings between pesticide manufacturers and government representatives, suggesting considerable lobbying influence is at play. The urgency voiced by advocates for the immediate implementation of this long-awaited plan stands in stark contrast to fierce opposition from the agribusiness sector.

In the 2023-24 financial year, Kenya has successfully collected $78 million in digital currency taxes from 384 asset traders, marking a significant achievement that surpasses initial projections, Coin Geek reports. The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has set an ambitious target of $466.3 million for the forthcoming year as it seeks to leverage the burgeoning digital asset sector characterised by high adoption rates and widespread peer-to-peer trading. Nonetheless, the evolution of taxation faces hurdles, chiefly due to the absence of a robust regulatory framework and the implementation of a controversial 3% digital asset tax. In response, the Blockchain Association of Kenya is advocating for more tailored tax structures and clearer regulations to facilitate smoother operational and compliance processes for traders.

Agricultural advancement

A Chinese-funded bamboo project in western Kenya is revolutionising agricultural practices for smallholder farmers affected by flooding along the Nzoia River. Retired public works official Francis Mayobo, who previously struggled with significant crop losses due to frequent floods, has reaped the benefits of bamboo farming following thorough training provided by the initiative. According to China Daily , this project not only focuses on flood protection but also aims at soil rejuvenation and generating income through bamboo cultivation. With support from the Chinese Academy of Sciences and implementation by the United Nations Environment Programme, the initiative has empowered over 200 farmers with training and resources necessary for sustainable bamboo farming. It specifically aims to revive the degraded Nzoia River basin, improve food security, and create economic opportunities for women, particularly in traditional weaving and selling bamboo products. Researcher Dennis Otieno Ochuodho praises the project as a nature-based solution addressing climate-induced flooding while promoting biodiversity and carbon sequestration.

Environmental sustainability

Kenya Airways has embarked on an innovative project aimed at converting plastic waste into diesel fuel, a strategic move designed to reduce fuel costs while simultaneously addressing pollution concerns. This initiative underscores the airline's commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship, VOA News reports.

Kenya-UK AI partnership

In a significant step for technological advancement, Kenya has forged a partnership with the UK to launch the UK-Kenya AI Challenge Fund, steered by the African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTS). This initiative aspires to create a responsible artificial intelligence ecosystem by endorsing projects that align with Kenya's national AI strategy across various sectors, including healthcare, agriculture, and education. CIO Africa reports that the fund prioritises ethical development, safety, and inclusion, with the goal of ensuring widespread benefits from AI advancements for all Kenyans. As articulated by Ali Hussein Kassim of KICTANet, it further aims to bolster partnerships and enhance institutional capacity related to AI governance within the country, positioning Kenya as a key player in AI research and innovation across the African continent.

Fuel import

Despite a recent decline in global oil prices, the Kenyan government has extended its fuel import deal with Gulf oil suppliers, leading to sustained high fuel prices for consumers. Originally expected to conclude in 2023, this extension is predicated on pre-agreed fuel volumes rather than a specified timeframe, resulting in a disconnect between international price fluctuations and local fuel pricing, The Eastleigh Voice reports. Consequently, Kenyans are experiencing higher costs per litre compared to prevailing open market rates, with a recent audit revealing a premium of Sh7.21 per litre under this government-supported agreement, in contrast to Sh4.51 under the Open Tender System. The International Monetary Fund has expressed concerns regarding potential financial liabilities for Kenya in light of Uganda's recent exit from the arrangement.

The villagers, from the semi-nomadic Moken community, live on the beach amidst discarded polystyrene and other refuse. Tide co-founder Marc Krebs says "There is more than enough plastic in our world " that should be reused.

“You have to start somewhere… We are quite convinced that we are at the beginning of a new wave," he said. 

Tide's model uses blockchain technology to track plastic from collection to finished products, like carpets made in the Netherlands. Condor Group director Jan Hoekman calls Tide "really unique" for its social impact and transparency.

"We did a lot of research, and Tide is really unique with indeed the social impact, but also their blockchain technology. You can follow the product from collection to the final product, which you see here. That's all transparent, which is very important if you talk about sustainability," Hoekman told the AFP.

Tide is one of several start-up initiatives tackling ocean plastic pollution . As Krebs states, "the more products that are being launched and proved that the quality is just the same, convinces others to switch."

These individuals, mostly men, wipe the city clean of discarded items ranging from used jerry cans and electrical equipment to shoes and shovels.

Their efforts are not just about survival; they are part of a larger ecosystem that turns waste into valuable resources.

Korales collect various types of waste, which they either restore, strip for spare parts or transform into new products.

For example, a kilogramme of collected metal can fetch about 40 birr ($0.30), while jerry cans can bring in between three and 25 birr ($0.025 and $0.21), depending on their size.

After hours of collecting, these recyclers converge on areas like Minalesh Tera in the Merkato market, one of Africa's largest open-air markets, to sell their finds to middlemen.

The korale system is a significant economic driver in Ethiopia. It provides livelihoods for thousands of people, many of whom live below the poverty line. For instance, a korale can earn between 500 and 1,000 birr ($4 to $8.50) a day.

"These are old items brought here by collectors. We purchase them and send them to factories for recycling. Some people also come here to buy old items because new ones are expensive," Tamirat Dejene, a middleman said.

Beyond the economic advantages, the korale system offers substantial environmental benefits. By collecting and recycling waste, korales helps reduce the amount of litter that would otherwise end up in landfills, contributing to pollution.

"It’s not just computers, we take old TVs, for example. They aren’t used anymore, and if left like that, they can cause environmental pollution. But if they are disassembled and sold for parts, it helps prevent pollution," Tesfaye Getahun, another middleman told AFP.

For small-scale entrepreneurs like 58-year-old Lisebeth Ajayi, sachet water is a lifeline. A trader in Lagos's bustling Obalende market, she relies on selling sachet water as a primary source of income. "Those who can’t afford bottled water rely on the water sachets to use them to cook, wash themselves or bathe," she told AFP. "Some will cook or wash their hands when they are dirty with them, and for some, it's to drink."

However, the unchecked consumption of sachet water has resulted in a significant plastic waste crisis. Environmental activist Doyinsola Ogunye warned of the dire consequences: "Nigeria has a lot of plastic sachet water, and when there’s a lot, it starts to clog the drainages and causes flooding and malaria and so many other issues like that for the environment, public health as well," Ogunye also told AFP

The environmental impact extends beyond clogged drainage systems. The plastic waste also threatens marine life. "When it gets to the beach, we have animals like the fish that we eat, and aquatic life like sea turtles, now feed on these pure water nylons thinking it is food, and it kills them as well," she added. "The danger of one 'pure water' nylon in our environment causes so much disaster. I would say it's a cocktail for disaster when this 'pure water' nylon gets into our environment."

With plastic sachets taking 30 to 40 years to decompose, the problem is set to persist for decades, filling up landfills and contributing to land degradation. Climate Action Africa noted that these plastics not only occupy landfill space but also reduce water infiltration into the soil, accelerating environmental degradation.

High-pressure mist systems and fog cannons have been introduced by Dust-A-Side, a South African Company to reduce airborne dust.

The cannons minimise water usage, while also effectively controlling dust.

Chief Operating Officer for Africa at Dust-A-Side, David Vander Linde said the new technology will improve visibility and safety for people who working in mining areas.

A miner who has worked for decades expressed optimism about the impact of the technology on the sector.

“With the world focusing on reducing emissions, Tanzania’s mining sector must alighn with these standards. These dust suppression technologies can help us reduce our water and chemical consumption while improving working conditions,” John Matinyi was quoted .

The move comes amidst rising concerns about climate change and health risks for residents and workers in mining communities.  

The situation leaves residents and workers exposed to harmful particles including PM 10 which has been linked to severe respiratory illnesses, silicosis and in some extreme cases, lung cancer.

Water tankers and trucks have for the longest time, been used to control the dust but the results, according to a former employee at the Bulyanhulu Mine, are very little.

“While we have been using water trucks to control dust, the results are far from ideal. The dust persists, especially on haul roads, making it difficult to maintain a healthy work environment,” Thobias Mbena told The Citizen .

The innovations also align with Tanzania’s broader environmental, social and governance (ESG) commitments.

According to CNN , the 43-floor office building will be powered by 75% hydrogen and 25% photovoltaics and will be supplemented by solar panels on its facade.

The low-embodied carbon materials which will be used for the building will reduce the carbon footprint by 58%.

Magnom Properties, developers in charge of the construction project also plan to implement water recycling and treatment on site to reduce freshwater demand.

The skyscraper will become the first in the world to register for Zero Carbon Certificate from the International Living Futures Institute.

The building is designed by Gordon Gill of Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architecture, the firm behind Central Park Tower, New York, and the upcoming Jeddah Tower in Saudi Arabia.

The EAD will evaluate the impact on each area based on the information generated and create a map to highlight the worst-affected places.

"Parallel to this initiative, a noise committee has been formed comprising of more than 10 government entities," Eng. Faisal Al Hammadi, Executive Director of the Environmental Quality Sector at EAD was quoted as saying.

The data collected will also help in creating ways to reduce noise levels to address the potential health risks associated. City planners and engineers will be able to use this information to influence future decisions including the design of sound barriers, addition of green spaces and infrastructural changes to reduce noise pollution. Health authorities can also use the data to protect residential areas and schools from loud noises.

Faisal Al Hammadi explained that Abu Dhabi has been "monitoring ambient noise since 2007 through the air quality monitoring network."

But this new project will provide a bigger and more accurate picture of noise pollution in the city in line with the authorities’ commitment to environmental care.

Spearheaded by the Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC), the project is expected to be implemented at Banani and Kalyanpur as pilot tests.

Under the urban forest project, local species of trees and shrubs will be planted with an estimated 20 to 40 species in a small forest.

The forest will be sprouted on a 53-acre reservoir owned by the DNCC at Kalyanpur and another under the authority of the Roads and Highways Department on the east side of Airport Road from Kamal Ataturk Avenue in Banani to Banani Road No. 27.

Financial assistance is being pursued to kickstart the project which is still in the planning stage and scheduled to begin once funds are secured.

DNCC’s Environment, Climate, and Disaster Management Circle Executive Engineer Nuruzzaman Khan told Jago News that the forest will help to cool down the city environment, regulate water flow and increase biodiversity.

The project also aims at developing a spiritual bond between nature and children.

Chief Heat Officer of Adrienne Arsht-Rockefeller Foundation Resilience Center, a US-based research institute assigned to DNCC is leading the project. Bushra Afrin has sought Bangladesh Bank’s sponsorship.

According to the Meteorological Service Singapore, the highest Ultraviolet (UV) Index reading in Singapore in 2024 was recorded at 1.30 pm on February 15. It measured 14, just one point away from the maximum level of 15 on the UV index. The highest daily temperature of 36.4 deg C was recorded at Paya Lebar on April 26, 2024.

In the face of this, affected countries are devising innovative ways to combat the heat and provide relief for people.

The Straits Times reports that Singaporean schools are tackling the challenge of improving heat conditions in their respective schools to make life easier for students amidst the heat waves.

Polo Tee-shirts

What was known as a second official uniform for students at the Beatty Secondary School has been adopted as a regular uniform now to manage the heat and humidity. The school introduced polo tees made of dri-fit materials with moisture-wicking properties as a more casual and comfortable uniform to wear in 2020.

The dri-fit properties of the shirts aid in dealing with the sweat from the body but until April 2024, students were mandated to wear the full uniform (school shirt and tie) on Mondays. Now teachers and students can wear these tee shirts throughout the week to control the heat impact.

Trees and blower fans

At the Yu Neng Primary School in Singapore, a variety of trees planted by the school since 2005 serve as shade and heat relievers for students. Aside from its natural airy feel, it also neutralises the heat effect on students.

Beyond the trees, the school is utilising blower fans donated to the school in 2015. The blowers, 10 of which have been placed at strategic points including the canteen, hall, and walkways in the school provide relief from the heat. Students stand in front of the blower fans which circulate cool air and generate wind to cool down heat.

Cool paints and sunshades

The Tampines Secondary School has adopted Thermal comfort strategies to improve temperatures in the school. A pilot test conducted in the school to explore thermal comfort and energy efficiency in an existing building has been extended to all other parts of the school. The test conducted in 2018 used cool paint which reflects solar radiation from the surface of the ceiling of the test building resulting in the reduction of 12 degrees celcius in the roof surface temperature and 1.8 degrees celcius in the indoor ceiling surface temperature.

Direct current motor fans were also installed and rain diverters made to prevent rain from entering classrooms were converted into perforated panels to act as sunshades.

The extension of this test to all parts of the school has ensured that indoor thermal comfort is experienced by teachers and students without resorting to the use of air conditions particularly during the heatwaves.

Colombia's constitutional court has upheld the country's tax on dividends, rejecting an appeal arguing it was confiscatory. The appeal, brought by lawyer Humberto Sierra Porto, failed to demonstrate the confiscatory nature of the tax increase. The withholding tax on outbound dividends increased to 20% from 10%, while inter-corporate dividends are taxed at 10%, Bloomberg reports.

COP 16

The 16th United Nations Conference on Biological Diversity of the Parties (COP16) will be hosted by the Colombian government in Cali, from October 21 to November 1, 2024. According to Climate Chance , the monitoring framework agreed at the previous conference to allow the progress of the countries towards national goals and targets under the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework to be evaluated.

Colombian gymnast represents at Olympics

North Texan Luisa Blanco, a gymnast, will represent Colombia at the Paris Olympics. She obtained dual citizenship to compete and earned her spot at the Colombian National Championship. Blanco is focused on representing her home country and having fun at the Olympics, NBC reports .

Bullfighting bill approved

Lawmakers in Colombia have approved a bill that seeks to ban one of the country's biggest and oldest traditional sports, bullfighting. The approval comes after 93 Congress members voted for ‘yes’ as opposed to the 2-member vote for ‘no’ during a debate on the bill. Congress on May 28 announced the approval of the last of four debates that were held in parliament to discuss the bill. The bill awaits presidential sanction to become a law in the country, GSW reports.

Transitional Justice process

A team of Nepali cross-party leaders is visiting Colombia to study its transitional justice process, specifically the performance of the Special Jurisdiction for Peace (SJP). The SJP was created as part of a peace agreement between the Colombian government and the FARC guerrilla group in 2016. According to The Kathmandu Post , the leaders hope to learn from Colombia's successful conclusion of the transitional justice process, particularly in implementing reduced sentencing for perpetrators who cooperate in revealing the truth. This visit comes at a time when Nepal's transitional justice process has been paralysed, with the government failing to find a meeting point in the amendment bill. The leaders believe that studying the Colombian model will be helpful in understanding how Nepal can adopt similar practices in its own transitional justice process. Colombia's constitutional court has upheld the country's tax on dividends, rejecting an appeal arguing it was confiscatory. The appeal, brought by lawyer Humberto Sierra Porto, failed to demonstrate the confiscatory nature of the tax increase. The withholding tax on outbound dividends increased to 20% from 10%, while inter-corporate dividends are taxed at 10%.

The Environmental suit will be filed before the Permanent Court of Arbitration in the Hague, Netherlands, and is expected to be completed in a few weeks.

The suit is evidence-based with facts gathered over the years by the Philippines, Assistant Secretary Jose Dominic Clavano IV of the Department of Justice confirmed.

"We need to strengthen all the pieces of evidence that need to be attached," Clavano said during a public briefing Thursday. "But we are confident that in a few weeks, we will complete our complaint and the attached evidence," she was quoted by the Manilla Times as saying.

33 Chinese maritime vessels were monitored to be "swarming" in the same area from August 9 to September 11, 2023.

The Addis Ababa City Administration Environmental Protection Authority (AAEPA) because of this has initiated strategies to address the situation.

During a stakeholder dialogue with companies and groups involved in the production of plastic, the General Manager of AAEPA, Dida Driba highlighted the importance of curbing the impact of plastic production on the environment .

He indicated the enforcement of a minimum thickness requirement of 0.03 micrometres for plastic products as part of solutions to the menace, to prevent easy degradation. The taxing of plastic products and exploration of non-plastic options were also emphasised.

The introduction of sustainable practices and awareness creation were suggested as viable solutions for addressing the challenge.

Participants in the dialogue included plastic factories engaged in plastic reproduction, supermarkets utilising plastic packaging, bread producers, distributors, as well as garden and paper container establishments, Capital Ethiopia reports.

Described as a unique ecoregion, scientists named it the South East Africa Montane Archipelago (SEAMA).

“The ecoregion is fragmented across small isolated pockets of rainforest, montane grasslands and shrublands, each with their own unique, but distantly related, plants and animals,” Study co-author, herpetologist Harith Farooq, who is a Lecturer in the Biology Department at Lúrio University in Mozambique was quoted by Forbes .

Although most of these sky islands including Mount Thyolo have lost 18% of primary humid forests, others like Mount Mabu are being protected and others like Mount Lico are inaccessible.

A total of 127 endemic plants have been found in this ecoregion and many species of animals including 39 species of butterflies exist here.

While efforts are being made to conserve the ecoregion, scientists say there’s more to learn and discover about them.

“Encouraging conservation of the South East Africa Montane Archipelago is paramount as it’s clear we’ve only begun to scratch the surface of what we can learn about this diverse region as well as consider how these learnings can be applied to global biodiversity conservation efforts,” co-author, herpetologist Gabriela Bittencourt-Silva, a Postdoctoral Researcher at the Natural History Museum was quoted by Forbes .

30 biological surveys were carried out by about 100 specialists from different disciplines to investigate and document this region over the past two decades.

Further details indicate that many African countries produce some of the worst nitrogen dioxide and Sulphur dioxide linked to thermal power plants.

While Egypt, Nigeria and South Africa were identified as countries with some of the highest mortality rates linked to fossil fuel air pollution, other NO2 emission hotspots were identified in other African countries.

South Africa was found to be hub to two of the world’s ten largest NO2 emission hotspots. Nine of these hotspots are linked to thermal power stations and the remaining one linked to a smelter complex in Mali.

South Africa hosts four of these power stations, Morocco hosts two and Egypt and Zimbabwe own one each.

According to Green Peace Africa , about 1.1 million premature deaths have been linked to air pollution annually.

This payment signifies the initial disbursement of three instalments under Madagascar's Emission Reductions Payment Agreement (ERPA) with the World Bank's Forest Carbon Partnership Facility (FCPF).

The World Bank’s Country Manager for Madagascar, Atou Seck said  “We congratulate Madagascar for successfully completing all the necessary steps to receive the first ERPA payment, and we look forward to continued collaboration on climate action.”

“Forests on the eastern part of the island provide ecosystem services that are critical for climate mitigation and resilience, including biodiversity conservation, watershed protection, and drought and flood mitigation. This program is helping to protect the remaining forests that are inextricably linked to the well-being of many communities in that area and across the country,” he added.

The agreement aims to mobilize up to $50 million to diminish a total of 10 million tons of CO2e emissions by the conclusion of 2024, particularly focusing on the rainforest-rich eastern coast of the country.

Madagascar holds the status of being one of the eight crucial global biodiversity hotspots, recognized as a priority conservation area owing to the substantial presence of species facing the threat of extinction.

The reported emission reductions were officially documented by Madagascar's Bureau National de Changement Climatique et REDD+ (BNCCREDD+) and subsequently validated and verified through a meticulous and independent third-party assessment process.

“There are 15 REDD+ initiatives in Madagascar and a benefit-sharing plan is in place with local actors and communities to ensure they receive the majority of the benefits. This will allow the stakeholders to continue promoting community management of natural resources and restoration of degraded areas while stimulating conservation-friendly farming models,” said BNCCREDD+ Coordinator,  Lovakanto Ravelomanana.

“We expect operations to begin in June 2024. We will be using groundwater and this water cannot be used for anything else, because of the high salinity, so we have to use a reverse osmosis system. The reserve osmosis system should be delivered on-site by the end of January, which is our short-term water solution for the site,” the Chief Executive of Dâures Green Hydrogen Village Consortium, Jerome Namaseb said.

“We have commenced a feasibility [study] for the provision of water for industrial production because for the production of green hydrogen, desalination of water is the only option and that is the long-term vision for the project in terms of water,” Namaseb added.

Namaseb said the smart greenhouse project will use 30-40 cubits of water per day, of which 30% should be recycled.  “Seven SMEs have been locally procured and we know this is a 100% Namibian youth-owned project and, therefore, should take pride in it,” said Namaseb.

The project is located in the Erongo region, Namibia’s largest constituency.

WMO Chief Petteri Taalas said “It’s a deafening cacophony of broken records…Greenhouse gas levels are record high. Global temperatures are record-high. Sea level rise is record high. Antarctic sea ice is record low.”

The WMO while unveiling its provisional 2023 State of the Global Climate report at the UN COP28 climate conference further revealed an alarming series of broken climate records and widespread devastation due to extreme weather conditions.

“These are more than just statistics…we risk losing the race to save our glaciers and to rein in sea level rise…We cannot return to the climate of the 20th century, but we must act now to limit the risks of an increasingly inhospitable climate in this and the coming centuries,” Taalas warned.

Malawi's 'green gold'

Malawi's rural areas are an epitome of traditional tobacco fields passed down through generations. Farmers usually adopt traditional means of cultivating the crop.

Malawi’s economy is tied to the tobacco industry which means that it is one of the countries in the world most dependent on tobacco earnings. Income derived from the tobacco industry is called “green gold.”

Malawi became the world’s leading exporter of tobacco at a point after surpassing countries like the USA. Rural households in Malawi heavily rely on the income from tobacco sales and exports, a World Bank report indicated.

In 2018, the country harvested 95,356 tonnes of tobacco. The country is also famed for being one of the largest producers of burley tobacco – one of the high-quality variants of the crop. In 2023, the country recorded a massive boost in the sale of the herb up to 55 per cent leaf-growing, representing about $282 million, Tobacco Tactics reported.

Balancing economic growth and environmental conservation

Forest loss, deforestation, and increase in atmospheric carbon are a few of the reasons climate change advocates want Malawi’s government to find alternative means of building their economy.

In 2015, the Agric Minister, Allan Chiyembekeza, briefly addressed the issue. “Tobacco does not stand alone in this. Other habits derived from the consumption of agricultural products are dangerous. Alcohol is addictive and leads to even higher social costs than tobacco consumption, sugar added to food leads to diabetes and obesity, and butter leads to increased cholesterol. We cannot accept the discrimination and we need to stand united and resist it,” Chiyembekeza is quoted by the Guardian .

From 1990 to 2010, Malawi experienced an annual average forest cover loss of 32,950 hectares, equivalent to 0.85%. In the overall timeframe, the country's forest cover diminished by 16.9%, approximately 659,000 hectares.

From field to market

In order to make the tobacco leaves suitable for export, they are taken through a curing process. This process involves carefully drying and ageing the harvested tobacco leaves to enhance flavour, reduce bitterness, and develop the desired aroma. Small-scale farmers in Malawi cure their tobacco by using fire, “where open wood fires are kindled on the floor of a curing barn and the curing process can either be continuous or intermittent, extending three to ten weeks before the leaf can be cured to the desired finish and ready for the market,” Nyasa Times reported.

Legislative gaps and challenges

In Malawi, there is no legislation specifically enforcing tobacco control policies. The regulation of tobacco cultivation, wholesale transactions, sales, and exports is done according to the Tobacco Act while the Consumer Protection Act theoretically has the potential to restrict deceptive tobacco advertising.

Internationally, Malawi is not a signatory to the World Health Organisation Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC). Malawi currently does not have a comprehensive tobacco control programme, which includes the absence of legislation on smoke-free areas or limitations on tobacco advertising, promotion, packaging, and sales.

In 2018, the Malawian Parliament passed the Tobacco Industry Bill to update the Tobacco Act (1970) and prevent the exploitation of farmers by tobacco companies.

The journey towards sustainable agriculture

Malawi's government has since 2021 indicated its willingness to initiate plans to diversify the Malawian economy to include more environmentally friendly crops.

“We need an exit strategy to transition our farmers to crops that are more sustainable and more profitable…I am therefore calling on the Ministry of Agriculture to begin consultations with all stakeholders to come up with a timeframe within which Malawi’s economy will be completely weaned from tobacco,” President Lazarus Chakwera is quoted by the Tobacco Reporter.

Industry expert while presenting their respective research paper on the area at the African Economic Conference (AEC), 2023 in Ethiopia agreed that the full and strategic implementation of AfCTA together with its operational units could be a catalyst for carbon markets.

“Although there is a trade-off between reducing GHG emissions and spurring economic benefits, establishing an African carbon market is particularly effective at reducing GHG emissions, while largely preserving foreseen economic benefits from AfCFTA,” Simon Mavel, an economist at the ECA said.

Trade & Industrial Policy Strategies (TIPS) economist, Seutame Maimele also said, “The African Union within the AfCFTA could lead to the creation of a regional carbon market which can be utilized for selling carbon credits. This market can also be used to retain the funds collected by the EU from the continent.”  

The World Economic Forum uses the Energy Transition Index (ETI) framework to analyse the performance of each country to streamline policy-making.

More importantly, five African countries topped the continent and managed to hold respectable global spots on the ETI ranking table.

Kenya

Kenya topped the chart as far as African countries are concerned while making it to 46th position globally. With an ETI performance of 57.8, Kenya emerged as one of the “top improvers between 2022 and 2023,” from a previous record of performing behind the global average. The report further described Kenya as having demonstrated strong momentum in its renewable energy transition in the region with its investment in solar energy projects amongst others. As a pioneer in renewable energy in East Africa, Kenya has persisted in the use of geothermal energy with the establishment of the largest thermal plant in Africa, the Olkaria Geothermal Power Plant, The Africa Sustainable Trade reports.

Morocco

Morocco is ranked 56th on the ETI ranking table with a global score of 55.6. The country managed to meet its renewable energy objective amidst unfavourable economic conditions. The Minister of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development, Leila Benali said, “In 2021, a 10 billion cubic metre natural gas pipeline between Africa and Europe shut down, cutting Morocco off. The country could have gone down an irreversible path of retooling the energy system with fossil fuels. Instead, it joined the world at COP26 in resolutions to move beyond coal. Though Morocco was still recovering from the economic shockwaves of COVID-19, it turned this challenge into an opportunity by putting in place a roadmap for energy security, including fast-tracking sustainable access to the international LNG market to “power past coal,” decarbonizing industries and addressing the intermittency of renewables.” In 2050, Morocco aims to become a global hub for green hydrogen production, according to The African Sustainable Trade.

Namibia

Namibia emerged 58th on the table with a global score of 55.1. The country hosts the largest desalination plant in southern Africa. The country reported a phased implementation of renewable energy projects from 2004 through to 2023, with the aim of creating an energy-conscious culture. Some of these projects included the Concentrated Solar Power Technology Transfer for Power Generation in Namibia from 2014 – 2017, and Energy Efficient Lighting and Appliance (EELA). Namibia’s president recently signed a $10 billion green hydrogen deal with development partners in a bid to ensure global compliance with renewable energy, VOA news reported.

Mauritius

Mauritius ranked 60th globally with a 55% ETI score. The country launched a phased implementation of a renewable energy roadmap in 2019 with an overall target of achieving 35% renewable energy by 2025. This target was reviewed to 60% by the end of 2030 coupled with an arrangement to phase out products like coal in electricity generation.

Cote D’Ivoire

With a global score of 53.1%, Cote d’Ivoire is ranked 75th on the global ETI table. The International Trade Administration reported that “As of 2021, Côte d’Ivoire had an installed capacity of 2,269 MW, with roughly 61 percent (1,390 MW) generated by thermal and the remaining 39 percent (879 MW) generated by hydroelectric dams.”

The country further boasts of a National Development Plan which seeks to expand “national electrification coverage, reaching the maximum of the population.”

The ETI scores measure a country’s current energy system, but not how fast they are transitioning. Generally, sub-Saharan Africa recorded an energy transition growth of 11% which is described as the most promising.

“Sub-Saharan Africa’s energy transition growth of 11% has been one of the most promising in the last decade, and it is the strongest performer of all groups on the sustainable dimension... Sub-Saharan Africa showed the maximum gain of 18% on scores on the equitable dimension in the past decade, but recent trends show a slowdown, about which the region should be cautious,” the report read in part.

Island Conservation Society (ICS) officer Jake Letori said , “There is no permanent human habitation here, therefore, very little disturbance. They are able to nest in peace as they are very sensitive and skittish birds. Also, the Cosmoledo lagoon and outer reefs provide a perfect foraging habitat for them to catch small fish, as well as plenty of sandy beaches. We've seen them catch turtle hatchlings from the beach and the sea." 

Letori further explained that,  "it was an opportunistic sighting. The team went out to explore Menai, the largest island of the atoll, which is an island that was new to them. We always keep an eye and an ear out for birds, and we were mobbed by both adults, which led us to believe they might be nesting nearby. Upon settling on the ground, we were able to see their nesting location and confirm the presence of an egg. We took a photo and a GPS location then departed…so far we know of one pair on Grande Ile that potentially raised two young and we've seen a pair on Menai. We've never seen more than four at one time on Cosmoledo, usually sighted in pairs or singular."

Caspian terns exhibit a diverse breeding habitat selection, encompassing ocean coasts, barrier islands, interior lakes, and rivers. Similar to other terns, they establish their nesting colonies in flat, open areas with minimal vegetation, enabling them to detect predators from a considerable distance. These preferred nesting sites are typically characterized by sandy or pebbly terrain, occasionally featuring shells, debris, or scattered short plants , the report adds.

Caspian tern eggs stand out due to their larger size compared to eggs of other tern species nesting in Seychelles, such as the black-naped tern, the sooty tern, the brown noddy, and fairy terns. These eggs exhibit a pale colouration with speckled, mottled brown patterns, blending seamlessly with the ground. As they undergo incubation, they gradually acquire a faded appearance, taking on an earthy colour over time.

The operational satellite named DJIBOUTI 1-A was positioned in orbit at an altitude of 520km and designed primarily to transmit real-time climate data which would be communicated across seismic stations in Djibouti.

In March, the satellite successfully underwent vibration tests at a collaborative CSUM/Latecoere facility in France. The outcomes indicated that the test levels and duration align entirely with the launch parameters.

Djibouti's Minister of Higher Education and Research Mr. Nabil Mohamed Ahmed in a press statement said, "We have established all the essential elements for the success of this project. Firstly, the selection of Djiboutian students, as the goal was not just to purchase the satellite but to have it constructed by our students, facilitating a technological leap. This accomplishment asserts that Djibouti is capable of satellite manufacturing, launching, obtaining climate-related results, and delving into development perspectives. As a result, ten technicians and engineers have been trained."

DJIBOUTI 1-A was developed through the collaborative capacity-building initiative involving Djibouti and its technical collaborator, the Centre Spatial Universitaire de Montpellier (CSUM), and Djiboutian engineers and technicians in France .

In 2024, the country hopes to launch the second phase of the project dubbed, DJIBOUTI-1B, Space in Africa has confirmed.

Researchers further describe the new species as “a medium-sized toad reaching about 1.4 inches. It has a robust body, noticeable warts and a rough texture skin. The female toads are larger and rougher than males…its body is brownish grey with some lighter beige spots and brighter orange patches”

One of the female toads was pregnant and taken under surveillance. It later laid 545 black and white coloured eggs, the Miami Herald confirmed. 

According to researchers, further DNA analysis on the new species “revealed a 6% and about 12% divergence from other pygmy toads.”

Located along the western coast of Angola in Cuanza Sul province, the Serra da Namba mountains is home to several species of animals.