Sustainability

A German sociologist’s systems theory highlights limits of global governance

The international community must address urgent worldwide challenges with full determination

Solar photovoltaic systems are a climate-friendly way to provide energy to health centres in rural Ghana. A German-Ghanaian research project has analysed key technical and socio-economic aspects.

The international community has sensible goals, but needs a coherent policy framework to achieve them.

Litigation is gaining importance as a tool for climate action. Activists and communities around the world have successfully sued states on environmental issues.

Neem seeds, a natural pesticide and fertiliser, are boosting livelihoods and reducing dependence on agrochemicals in Ghana

Several countries announced contributions to different climate funds at the climate summit in Dubai last year. However, their commitments are not nearly enough to cover the costs of adaptation, loss and damage.

The fact that the climate crisis is becoming dramatic must not discourage us. What is needed is more cooperation and less polarisation. Every 10th of a degree matters because it can help put a check on irreversible damage.

According to climate expert Mojib Latif, the climate crisis is also pushing rich countries to the limit. He is calling for governments to be more open with citizens – and for more international cooperation.

Sustainable development would be hampered internationally should European legislation regarding supply-chain management fail, and Germany’s reputation would suffer too.