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What are green buildings and how can they help South Asia address the climate crisis?
Source: The Third Pole
Date: 13 Apr 2023
Green buildings are constructed with sustainability in mind, aiming to minimize environmental impact and promote healthier living and working environments. These structures incorporate various eco-friendly features, such as passive solar design, energy-efficient lighting and HVAC systems, solar panels, water-saving fixtures, recycled water usage, low-VOC paints, and more. Certifications like LEED and BREEAM recognize green buildings for their reduced carbon emissions, lower water usage, and improved occupant satisfaction. In Asia, including South and Southeast Asia, there is a growing movement towards green building practices, with both mandatory regulations and voluntary rating systems in place. Green ratings extend to neighborhoods, focusing on creating sustainable and resilient communities. These efforts are crucial in addressing the climate crisis, promoting disaster resilience, and achieving equitable development in vulnerable regions like South Asia.
Fiscal policies that could tackle air pollution and climate change
Source: Dhaka Tribune
Date: 17 Apr 2023
Bangladesh’s rapid urbanization and economic shifts pose environmental challenges, particularly increasing carbon emissions and air pollution. To address these issues, the country has pledged to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, with fiscal measures playing a critical role. Initiatives include VAT exemptions for renewable energy equipment, incentives for renewable electricity, enforcing environmental surcharges on polluting industries, and implementing a carbon tax on fossil fuels. These measures aim to promote sustainable practices, phase out fossil fuel subsidies, and incentivize cleaner energy alternatives. Coordinated efforts among institutions are essential for successful implementation and mitigating the impact on consumers through rebates and dividends.
Heatwave: Is India ready to deal with extreme temperatures?
Source: BBC News
Date: 18 Apr 2023
India is one of the countries most exposed and vulnerable to heat. Hot days and hot night events have risen significantly, and are projected to increase between two and four-fold by 2050. Heatwaves are also predicted to arrive earlier, stay longer and become more frequent.
