News & Blogs
We believe that knowledges concerning the future development direction of the world should be shared and spread. Here in the knowledge base, information that might change the world will be presented. Through uncovering the most up-to-date research results, international organization events, and other SDGs progress, you are able to see what is happening to build the future.
GEF Councils Adopt Work Programs Totaling USD 736.42 Million
26 Jun 2024
The 67th GEF Council, 36th LDCF/SCCF Council, and 2nd GBFF Council meetings collectively adopted $736.42 million in work programs focused on addressing global environmental challenges like biodiversity loss, pollution, climate change, and more. This included the first-ever $37.82 million GBFF work program for projects in Mexico and Brazil that prioritize indigenous and local community involvement. The $203 million LDCF work program covered initiatives across 20 countries on agriculture, nature-based solutions, climate resilience, and other areas. Council members emphasized the GEF's role in supporting implementation of major environmental conventions and appointed the CEO to a second term.
Half the world now following doctors’ orders on cutting trans fats: WHO
24 Jun 2024
In a milestone report, the World Health Organization (WHO) revealed that as of last year, 53 countries had best practice policies to tackle industrial trans fats, protecting 3.7 billion people or 46% of the global population. This represents significant progress from 2018 when only 6% were protected. WHO's goal is to eliminate all trans fats from the global food supply by 2023, a target that could save an estimated 183,000 lives per year given their negative health effects.
Fossil fuel use and emissions hit record highs as world struggles with deadly heat, storms and fires
20 Jun 2024
Global consumption of oil, coal, and gas reached record levels, causing a 2.1% increase in energy-related emissions and surpassing 40 billion metric tons for the first time. Fossil fuel growth was prominent in developing economies like India and China, while major advanced economies showed signs of decline. Renewable energy use increased, but not enough to meet rising energy demand. Urgent action is needed to accelerate renewable energy expansion and reduce wasteful energy consumption to limit global warming.
UN food chief: Poorest areas have zero harvests left
17 Jun 2024
Droughts and flooding have devastated the land in impoverished areas, leading to zero harvests and reliance on aid. Land degradation from extreme weather and modern farming is worsening the situation. The UN warns that 40% of land is degraded, and it could reach 95% by 2050. Soil degradation reduces crop yields and hinders climate change mitigation. Urgent action is needed to rejuvenate the land and ensure food security.
United Nations Institute for Training and Research Global Leadership and ESG Development Center established in Beijing
17 Jun 2024
the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) and the Social Impact Investment Fund (SIIF) officially signed a cooperation agreement in Beijing, announcing the joint establishment of the UNITAR Global Leadership and ESG Development Center (ESG Center for short). This marks the first specialized institution established by UNITAR in the Asia-Pacific region that focuses on global innovative leadership and ESG (environment, society, governance) institutional capacity building and talent training. Headquartered in Hong Kong, China, its business will cover the entire Asia-Pacific region.
Inauguration and Launching Ceremony of the United Nations Institute for Training and Research Center for Global Leadership and ESG Development Held in Beijing
17 Jun 2024
At the inauguration and launch ceremony, Nikhil Seth, Assistant Secretary-General of the United Nations and Executive Director of the Institute for Training and Research, said that the organization will mobilize UNITAR's global knowledge and training network to provide systematic support for the sustainable development of the ESG Center. The establishment of the ESG Center will provide a key global ESG leadership training platform for the Asia-Pacific region, promote the strategic integration of environmental responsibility, social responsibility and transparent governance of long-term valueism, and contribute to the realization of global sustainable development goals. He particularly emphasized the importance of ESG in global economic development, pointing out that ESG is not only a key driver of sustainable development, but also a necessary condition for promoting economic growth and social inclusion. "
UN Releases Summary of STI Forum to Inform HLPF Deliberations
12 Jun 2024
The UN Secretariat has published the Co-Chairs' summary of the Multi-stakeholder Forum on Science, Technology, and Innovation for the SDGs. The summary highlights the pivotal role of STI in shaping sustainable development and addressing global challenges. It emphasizes the need for collaborative and inclusive approaches, ensuring equitable access to technological advancements. The summary presents key messages from the forum's sessions and offers recommendations for funding, STI cooperation, poverty eradication, digital innovation, women-centered solutions, and partnerships. Overall, it provides an overview of the forum's discussions and the importance of STI in achieving the SDGs.
Crossbows and eerie silences – following Antarctic whales for climate change clues
8 Jun 2024
A BBC science team studied humpback whales in the Southern Ocean to understand the impact of climate change. They used a crossbow and drone to collect skin and blubber samples, assessing the whales' health and feeding patterns. The research focused on the whales' dependence on krill and the effects of declining sea ice. By studying the whales' blubber, they gained insights into climate-related food shortages. The team emphasized the need to protect feeding habitats and implement fishing restrictions. Despite challenges from tourism, visiting Antarctica can inspire preservation efforts.
Rivers in Alaska are turning orange. The reason surprised even scientists
30 May 2024
The passage discusses how rivers and streams in Alaska are changing color due to the release of toxic metals from thawing permafrost as a result of climate change. This discoloration and increase in metal concentrations is causing declines in aquatic life and raising concerns for communities that rely on these waterways. Similar changes have also been observed in other regions like Colorado and the Chilean Andes, highlighting the broader impact of climate change on mountain water sources.
These animals are mostly likely to 'win' climate change
29 May 2024
Several animal "winners" of climate change are discussed, including jellyfish, bullfrogs, feral swine, spotted lanternflies, and mosquitoes. These species are expected to thrive and expand their ranges due to their adaptability, lack of specific habitat needs, and ability to reproduce quickly. The passage suggests these climate "winners" could dramatically disrupt ecosystems and cause significant economic and environmental damage as their populations grow.