Tours of deprived parts of Asia's cities are increasingly popular with tourists. But do they help or exploit? Eco-Business reviews slum tours in Mumbai, Jakarta and Manila.
From China’s ban on foreign waste imports to Vanuatu’s plan to take fossil fuel firms to court, this year saw countries toughen their national and foreign policies to tackle the world's biggest social and environmental problems.
Negotiators from over 190 governments continued to bicker over every detail of any agreement to combat climate change even as they admitted in private that their efforts may become irrelevant in a changed global polity.
Paulo Artaxo –
What does Brazil's new president mean for the Amazon? Paulo Artaxo from the University of Sao Paulo's examines the damage right-wing Jair Bolsonaro could do to one of the world's most important ecosystems, and what that would mean for the rest of us.
Vinod Thomas –
The storm that smashed into the southeastern United States last week was another reminder that the window to counter the effects of climate change is closing. With extreme weather becoming more frequent, will US and international leaders be held accountable for their failure to cut carbon emissions?
WWF-Malaysia –
With elections in Malaysia approaching, green groups including WWF Malaysia, Wetlands International and Sabah Wetlands Conservation Society have co-signed an open letter to the country's political hopefuls calling for greater emphasis on sustainable development.
Donald Trump isn't the only factor causing a downbeat mood at the UN climate talks in Marrakesh, says Action Aid climate lead Harjeet Singh. Acrimony over climate finance also threatens the success of the Paris Agreement.
There shouldn't be a dedicated government department for climate change and energy - all ministries should be equally sensitive to these issues, says Sindicatum Sustainable Resources chief executive officer Assaad Razzouk.
Crystal Ho –
The IPCC's climate warning is an opportunity for the business world to show leadership, said UNDP's Achim Steiner in the opening speech at the Responsible Business Forum in Singapore.
Vaidehi Shah –
Far too many Australian politicians receive financial support from, and give subsidies to, the fossil fuel industry, say climate campaigners. A new initiative by 350.org Australia calls for pollution-free politics in the country.
