Energy

The stark geography of energy poverty Sub-Saharan Africa has emerged as the epicenter of global energy inequity, housing 80% of the world’s electricity-poor population—600 million people living predominantly in rural areas where grid extension remains economically prohibitive12. The region’s 43% electricity access rate masks devastating disparities between urban areas achieving 81% access and rural communities languishing at 34%, a gap that widened during the pandemic as population growth outpaced electrification efforts34. ...

Air pollution represents one of the most significant environmental health risks globally, with wide-ranging impacts across the human lifespan. Evidence from numerous scientific studies confirms that exposure to air pollutants—particularly fine particulate matter ($PM_{2.5}$), nitrogen dioxide ($NO_2$), and ozone ($O_3$)—is associated with increased morbidity and mortality from respiratory diseases, cardiovascular conditions, adverse birth outcomes, and cognitive impairments1. Even short-term exposure to pollutant levels below many regulatory standards can cause measurable health effects. Current research indicates that air pollution is responsible for approximately 8.1 million deaths annually worldwide, making it one of the leading causes of preventable deaths1. Within the Doughnut Economics framework, air pollution represents a critical planetary boundary that, when exceeded, directly undermines the social foundation of human health. The ecological ceiling breach creates a complex challenge requiring integrated policy approaches addressing both environmental protection and health equity to create a safe and just space for humanity. ...

Unmasking Maritime Pollution’s Depths The global shipping industry, while vital for international trade and economic growth, significantly contributes to chemical pollution in our oceans and atmosphere. This pollution extends far beyond the visible oil spills that often capture headlines. It encompasses a complex mixture of air pollutants, greenhouse gases, and water contaminants, with far-reaching consequences for both environmental and human health. ...