Poverty (7)

The theme of the 6th issue of Environment and Poverty Times is resource efficiency as a catalyst for a greening of the world economy and its subsequent contribution to poverty alleviation efforts. It points to a few examples of shifts in thinking about economics that may lead to a more sustainable future. It presents practical examples of resource efficiency that contribute to a greening of the economy, highlighting such themes as sustainable energy, waste management, construction and sustainable tourism.

A rapid response assessment report released by UNEP to mark World Environment Day 2009 indicates that boosting investments in conservation, restoration and management of natural ecosystems will not only become important, but will provide our best and most effective way to slow down climate change and accelerate sustainable development and the achievement of the poverty-related Millennium Development Goals.

The paper features a collection of short articles, maps, graphics and other illustrations that focuses on the complex links between environment and poverty reduction. It describes how natural resources can contribute to economic growth that also benefits the poor.

A new edition of the Environment and Poverty Times was launched at the World Summit 2005 in New York.  The paper focuses on the vital role of environment in poverty reduction.  It tries to raise critical and constructive voices that point at pitfallls, but also propose solutions.

Special Edition for the World Conference on Disaster Reduction January 18-22, 2005, Kobe, Japan. This edition features a collection of articles covering a wide range of disaster-related issues ranging from prevention early warning and preparedness to relief and reconstruction.

The links between the environment and poverty are complex and often invite misunderstanding. Catchy titles such as "Poverty is pollution" and "Healthy environment, prosperous people" are misleading: they generalize the intricate interrelationships between poverty and resource mismanagement.

The links between the environment and poverty are complex and often invite misunderstanding. Catchy titles such as "Poverty is pollution" and "Healthy environment, prosperous people" are misleading: they generalize the intricate interrelationships between poverty and resource mismanagement.