This document summarizes key environmental, social, and governance (ESG) challenges facing the global infrastructure industry. It discusses how corruption and lobbying are common issues that can influence project outcomes. It also notes that infrastructure projects can have significant environmental impacts during construction and operations through their consumption of resources and emissions. Additionally, infrastructure development often faces social challenges due to controversial land acquisition and impacts on local communities.
Advancing NAPs after Paris: ICT sector contributionTariq A. Deen
The session will address the integration of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) in climate change adaptation. Through presentation of key concepts and practical examples, the session will look at: how processes in various applications can be optimized and adapted according to changing climate conditions through internet of things (IoT); application of ICTs in food production systems and disaster risk reduction.
Carbon Disclosure Project: Climate Change & Global Electric UtilitiesIBM Energy & Utilties
http://www.ibm.com/smarterplanet/us/en/smart_grid/nextsteps/index.html?cmp=agus_cxosp2gridsol-20100426&cm=c&csr=carbondisc&cr=slideshare&ct=usbrb401&cm_mmc=agus_cxosp2gridsol-20100426-usbrb401-_-c-_-carbondisc-_-slideshare
The UK Carbon Disclosure Project takes a look at Global Electric Utilities & Climate Change
Technology must play a central role in ensuring environmental sustainability, according to the document. Technological solutions are more effective than information-based approaches at influencing human behavior and meeting the rising demand for resources. Investment in technology is critical to drive innovation, meet human needs sustainably, and prevent environmental calamity. Without continued technological progress and investment, demands will exceed the Earth's capacity and irreversible damage will occur. The document argues technological solutions directly impact behavior, are necessary to address population growth and resource consumption trends, and are vital to sustain innovation.
To ensure the economic health, welfare and security of their citizens, smart goverments are working towards (1) Citizen-centered experiences, (2) Government accountability, (3) Green government for a greener planet, (4) Sense and respond capabilities
The document discusses sustainability initiatives in Bridgeport, Connecticut. It focuses on (1) reducing pollution and toxicity to improve human and environmental health, (2) decreasing waste and increasing recycled content, and (3) lowering non-renewable energy consumption and depletion of natural resources. The city aims to lead by example in government and encourage similar actions in households and businesses.
Advancing NAPs after Paris: ICT sector contributionTariq A. Deen
The session will address the integration of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) in climate change adaptation. Through presentation of key concepts and practical examples, the session will look at: how processes in various applications can be optimized and adapted according to changing climate conditions through internet of things (IoT); application of ICTs in food production systems and disaster risk reduction.
Carbon Disclosure Project: Climate Change & Global Electric UtilitiesIBM Energy & Utilties
http://www.ibm.com/smarterplanet/us/en/smart_grid/nextsteps/index.html?cmp=agus_cxosp2gridsol-20100426&cm=c&csr=carbondisc&cr=slideshare&ct=usbrb401&cm_mmc=agus_cxosp2gridsol-20100426-usbrb401-_-c-_-carbondisc-_-slideshare
The UK Carbon Disclosure Project takes a look at Global Electric Utilities & Climate Change
Technology must play a central role in ensuring environmental sustainability, according to the document. Technological solutions are more effective than information-based approaches at influencing human behavior and meeting the rising demand for resources. Investment in technology is critical to drive innovation, meet human needs sustainably, and prevent environmental calamity. Without continued technological progress and investment, demands will exceed the Earth's capacity and irreversible damage will occur. The document argues technological solutions directly impact behavior, are necessary to address population growth and resource consumption trends, and are vital to sustain innovation.
To ensure the economic health, welfare and security of their citizens, smart goverments are working towards (1) Citizen-centered experiences, (2) Government accountability, (3) Green government for a greener planet, (4) Sense and respond capabilities
The document discusses sustainability initiatives in Bridgeport, Connecticut. It focuses on (1) reducing pollution and toxicity to improve human and environmental health, (2) decreasing waste and increasing recycled content, and (3) lowering non-renewable energy consumption and depletion of natural resources. The city aims to lead by example in government and encourage similar actions in households and businesses.
Should Vermont's Ridges Be Developed For Wind Power?Energize Vermont
Professor Ben Luce analyzes whether it makes sense to develop Vermont's wind resource atop its many ridgelines or if there are better alternatives with less impact on natural resources and communities.
A green urban economy realizes opportunities to enhance human well-being and local natural resources, while reducing future costs, ecological scarcities and environmental risks. Cities concentrate people, infrastructure, and economic activity, allowing them to achieve more with less through eco-efficiency. Local governments can steer investments, set policies, and provide incentives to green the local economy by supporting areas like renewable energy and clean technologies.
Dr. Bokhwan Yu presented on green infrastructure funding in developing Asia. The presentation covered:
1) The dilemma between infrastructure development and environmental preservation in Asia. Green infrastructure can achieve both economic growth and sustainability.
2) Case studies on green infrastructure projects funded by multilateral development banks and through public-private partnerships, highlighting challenges around delays, political and regulatory issues.
3) Solutions to overcoming challenges including enhancing government capacity, building trust with funding partners, and increasing regional cooperation to urgently meet infrastructure needs through larger cross-border projects.
Governance of Remediation and Industrial development of Contaminated Sites - ...Simone Padoan
A review of lessons learned and best viable practices in the Governance of Environmental Restoration and Industrial (re)Development of large contaminated sites, such as Brownfields and distressed real estates of Heavy Industry Parks
Study: Energy Futures? Eni´s investment in tar sands and palm oil in the Cong...Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung
Eni, formerly the Italian state oil company, is undertaking a new multi-billion dollar investment in Congo in developing tar sands, oil palm for food and bio-diesel and gas-fuelled electricity. Eni’s investments in tar sands and oil palm are inherently high-risk. In other parts of the world, such investments have been heavily criticized for causing social and environmental damage, both locally and globally. The actual study gives background information about the investment.
This document provides recommendations from the CASH network of cities on policies to promote sustainable housing. It discusses the need for citizen involvement, financial instruments, legal frameworks, technological developments, energy production and distribution, and project management. The recommendations are presented in various declarations agreed upon by the CASH partners. They emphasize establishing funding mechanisms, improving legal flexibility for social housing, adopting a holistic renovation approach, promoting renewable energy sources, and ensuring stakeholder participation in project planning and implementation.
José Andréu _ Mitigation Program Across Multiple Sectors - GHG Mitigation in ...smartcityexpo
The document discusses greenhouse gas (GHG) mitigation in urban areas through a multi-sector approach at the city level. It notes that cities are responsible for 67% of global energy use and 70% of GHG emissions. A city-wide approach to mitigation can reduce emissions across multiple sectors like transportation, waste, water, and energy usage. Examples of ongoing mitigation programs and frameworks in cities like Amman, Rio de Janeiro, and Mexico are also summarized.
This document outlines the Business Roundtable's (BRT) Climate RESOLVE initiative to encourage voluntary greenhouse gas reduction efforts among BRT member companies. Key elements include establishing participation milestones, hosting workshops on effective strategies, monitoring progress through annual surveys, and publishing reports on aggregate results without disclosing individual company data. The goal is 100% participation in voluntary emission management programs by BRT members to demonstrate industry leadership in addressing climate change risks.
Howard University Sigma Xi talk Biocomplexity Decisionmaking MP Totten 11-10Michael P Totten
Humanity confronts unprecedented challenges of global and historical magnitude, including climate destabilization, ocean acidification, more absolute poor than any time in human history, and species extinction rate 1000 times the natural background rate. Instead of dealing with each problem separately, there are great gains to be made by looking for common solutions to these inextricably interwoven problems. Green economics offers one such perspective to assessment opportunities.
A presentation on the role of renewable energy towards sustainable development in small island states. Delivered at the Bermuda College (26/01/2015) as their Corange Science week guest speaker.
Yaser Abu Nasr_The Spatial Dimension of Adaptation Planning: The MENA Contexthbs_Palestine_Jordan
The document discusses the spatial dimension of adaptation planning in the context of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. It covers several key topics: (1) an introduction to climate change impacts on livelihoods and urban places; (2) the adaptation planning process and how it differs from conventional planning; and (3) challenges to adaptation planning and examples from cities like Alexandria, Egypt. The document emphasizes that adaptation planning requires a localized approach that considers vulnerabilities, uncertainties, and flexible solutions to address the impacts of climate change on communities and urban areas in the MENA region.
SymbioCity Sustainability By Sweden Brochure english new!
Copia presa a gennaio 2012 per sviluppare un articolo di http://pacheramanda.wordpress.com
L'originale eventualmente aggiornata la trovate
A presentation given to the Dayton ASCE Chapter on 4/21/11 regarding ASCE efforts in sustainability and the future of sustainability for civil and infrastructure engienering including the IgCC.
This document discusses sustainable energy planning. It outlines the importance of energy for development goals and sustainability. Key aspects of sustainable energy planning include integrating environmental, economic and social dimensions; public-private participation; and flexibility for changes. Principles of sustainable energy policy include energy security, reasonable tariffs, access for all populations, and fostering national renewable energy sources and technology.
Semi-finalist submission for the Leeds Net Impact Case Competition
This year's case competition asked competitors to evaluate 4 infrastructure solutions that could be implemented to mitigate flooding damage costs for a small city on the Chesapeake bay. Each solution was to be evaluated from a triple bottom line perspective, be financially feasible, and avoid unnecessary tax increases.
(1) The document discusses issues and opportunities related to developing affordable housing markets in Asia Pacific regions. It notes that 31% of the population in these regions now live in urban areas, stressing basic infrastructure.
(2) It identifies challenges like scarce urban land, excessive land regulations, lack of financing for low-income housing. But it also sees opportunities in new technologies, policies supporting affordable housing, and finance from companies like DHFL.
(3) Global risks from factors like extreme weather, water scarcity and diseases are growing due to unsustainable urbanization. But compact, connected "smart cities" can cut costs while creating jobs and using data to manage resources better.
Following the 2008 "Re-imaging Cities: Urban Design After the Age of Oil symposium, Penn IUR solicited manuscripts on environmental and energy challenges and their effect on the redesign of urban environments.
The document proposes establishing the "Friends of the Dryline" public-private partnership to support New York City's efforts to implement coastal resiliency projects along the East River from E 23rd St to Battery Place, known as the "Dryline Area". This would involve securing $1 billion in private financing to supplement the $335 million HUD grant for the East Side Coastal Resiliency Project. Private funds could be raised from pension funds and through a progressive surcharge on property and casualty insurance policies in the Dryline Area. Establishing the partnership now would allow for integrated planning and design of the full resiliency network to save costs compared to implementing projects individually over time.
This document provides an agenda for a webinar on September 13, 2011 to launch the REDDy-Set-Grow Part II report. The webinar will include welcome remarks and presentations from representatives of organizations involved in forests and climate change negotiations. Speakers will discuss private sector suggestions for international climate negotiators based on the recommendations in the REDDy-Set-Grow Part II report, which was produced by UNEP Finance Initiative to advise negotiators on catalyzing private investment in reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation. The webinar will focus on the most promising policy scenarios and ways to address risks to private sector investment in REDD+.
The world today has been witnessing phenomenal outgrowth in all fields during the past few decades. This augmentation has been largely stimulated by information and communication technologies (ICT). However, the inexorable evolution of technology and global economic development are being pursued at an ever-increasing societal cost with a snowballing potentially negative impact on the environment. Hence, one of the important challenges modern society faces is sustainability. This article attempts to explore the existing body of knowledge to provide a better understanding of the impact of ICT and digital revolutions on global carbon footprint and emissions. It also attempts to explore the presence of environmental sustainability initiatives in e-government programs worldwide. It presents some thoughts about how governments may address sustainability requirements in their e-government programs and enact responsible ICT-enabled transformation.
The UN explains: Investments in infrastructure – transport, irrigation, energy and information and communication technology – are crucial to achieving sustainable development and empowering communities in many countries. It has long been recognized that growth in productivity and incomes, and improvements in health and education outcomes require investment in infrastructure. How the world is doing, metrics defined to measure success span from road access for rural populations, Passenger and freight volumes, manufacturing value-added as a proportion of GDP and per capita and others, what do the metrics say about ongoing projects, what is needed to run project that improves one or more of the established metrics?
Agenda:
To be discussed with subject-matter experts
1. What is a sustainable infrastructure?
2. What do we mean by "sustainable infrastructure for climate change resilience"?
3. In what consists a "sustainable energy infrastructure"?
4. How to secure the critical sustainable infrastructure?
5. What is the process of digital transformation of sustainable infrastructure?
6. How does financing sustainable infrastructure work?
7. Are there best practices in sustainable infrastructure development projects?
Should Vermont's Ridges Be Developed For Wind Power?Energize Vermont
Professor Ben Luce analyzes whether it makes sense to develop Vermont's wind resource atop its many ridgelines or if there are better alternatives with less impact on natural resources and communities.
A green urban economy realizes opportunities to enhance human well-being and local natural resources, while reducing future costs, ecological scarcities and environmental risks. Cities concentrate people, infrastructure, and economic activity, allowing them to achieve more with less through eco-efficiency. Local governments can steer investments, set policies, and provide incentives to green the local economy by supporting areas like renewable energy and clean technologies.
Dr. Bokhwan Yu presented on green infrastructure funding in developing Asia. The presentation covered:
1) The dilemma between infrastructure development and environmental preservation in Asia. Green infrastructure can achieve both economic growth and sustainability.
2) Case studies on green infrastructure projects funded by multilateral development banks and through public-private partnerships, highlighting challenges around delays, political and regulatory issues.
3) Solutions to overcoming challenges including enhancing government capacity, building trust with funding partners, and increasing regional cooperation to urgently meet infrastructure needs through larger cross-border projects.
Governance of Remediation and Industrial development of Contaminated Sites - ...Simone Padoan
A review of lessons learned and best viable practices in the Governance of Environmental Restoration and Industrial (re)Development of large contaminated sites, such as Brownfields and distressed real estates of Heavy Industry Parks
Study: Energy Futures? Eni´s investment in tar sands and palm oil in the Cong...Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung
Eni, formerly the Italian state oil company, is undertaking a new multi-billion dollar investment in Congo in developing tar sands, oil palm for food and bio-diesel and gas-fuelled electricity. Eni’s investments in tar sands and oil palm are inherently high-risk. In other parts of the world, such investments have been heavily criticized for causing social and environmental damage, both locally and globally. The actual study gives background information about the investment.
This document provides recommendations from the CASH network of cities on policies to promote sustainable housing. It discusses the need for citizen involvement, financial instruments, legal frameworks, technological developments, energy production and distribution, and project management. The recommendations are presented in various declarations agreed upon by the CASH partners. They emphasize establishing funding mechanisms, improving legal flexibility for social housing, adopting a holistic renovation approach, promoting renewable energy sources, and ensuring stakeholder participation in project planning and implementation.
José Andréu _ Mitigation Program Across Multiple Sectors - GHG Mitigation in ...smartcityexpo
The document discusses greenhouse gas (GHG) mitigation in urban areas through a multi-sector approach at the city level. It notes that cities are responsible for 67% of global energy use and 70% of GHG emissions. A city-wide approach to mitigation can reduce emissions across multiple sectors like transportation, waste, water, and energy usage. Examples of ongoing mitigation programs and frameworks in cities like Amman, Rio de Janeiro, and Mexico are also summarized.
This document outlines the Business Roundtable's (BRT) Climate RESOLVE initiative to encourage voluntary greenhouse gas reduction efforts among BRT member companies. Key elements include establishing participation milestones, hosting workshops on effective strategies, monitoring progress through annual surveys, and publishing reports on aggregate results without disclosing individual company data. The goal is 100% participation in voluntary emission management programs by BRT members to demonstrate industry leadership in addressing climate change risks.
Howard University Sigma Xi talk Biocomplexity Decisionmaking MP Totten 11-10Michael P Totten
Humanity confronts unprecedented challenges of global and historical magnitude, including climate destabilization, ocean acidification, more absolute poor than any time in human history, and species extinction rate 1000 times the natural background rate. Instead of dealing with each problem separately, there are great gains to be made by looking for common solutions to these inextricably interwoven problems. Green economics offers one such perspective to assessment opportunities.
A presentation on the role of renewable energy towards sustainable development in small island states. Delivered at the Bermuda College (26/01/2015) as their Corange Science week guest speaker.
Yaser Abu Nasr_The Spatial Dimension of Adaptation Planning: The MENA Contexthbs_Palestine_Jordan
The document discusses the spatial dimension of adaptation planning in the context of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. It covers several key topics: (1) an introduction to climate change impacts on livelihoods and urban places; (2) the adaptation planning process and how it differs from conventional planning; and (3) challenges to adaptation planning and examples from cities like Alexandria, Egypt. The document emphasizes that adaptation planning requires a localized approach that considers vulnerabilities, uncertainties, and flexible solutions to address the impacts of climate change on communities and urban areas in the MENA region.
SymbioCity Sustainability By Sweden Brochure english new!
Copia presa a gennaio 2012 per sviluppare un articolo di http://pacheramanda.wordpress.com
L'originale eventualmente aggiornata la trovate
A presentation given to the Dayton ASCE Chapter on 4/21/11 regarding ASCE efforts in sustainability and the future of sustainability for civil and infrastructure engienering including the IgCC.
This document discusses sustainable energy planning. It outlines the importance of energy for development goals and sustainability. Key aspects of sustainable energy planning include integrating environmental, economic and social dimensions; public-private participation; and flexibility for changes. Principles of sustainable energy policy include energy security, reasonable tariffs, access for all populations, and fostering national renewable energy sources and technology.
Semi-finalist submission for the Leeds Net Impact Case Competition
This year's case competition asked competitors to evaluate 4 infrastructure solutions that could be implemented to mitigate flooding damage costs for a small city on the Chesapeake bay. Each solution was to be evaluated from a triple bottom line perspective, be financially feasible, and avoid unnecessary tax increases.
(1) The document discusses issues and opportunities related to developing affordable housing markets in Asia Pacific regions. It notes that 31% of the population in these regions now live in urban areas, stressing basic infrastructure.
(2) It identifies challenges like scarce urban land, excessive land regulations, lack of financing for low-income housing. But it also sees opportunities in new technologies, policies supporting affordable housing, and finance from companies like DHFL.
(3) Global risks from factors like extreme weather, water scarcity and diseases are growing due to unsustainable urbanization. But compact, connected "smart cities" can cut costs while creating jobs and using data to manage resources better.
Following the 2008 "Re-imaging Cities: Urban Design After the Age of Oil symposium, Penn IUR solicited manuscripts on environmental and energy challenges and their effect on the redesign of urban environments.
The document proposes establishing the "Friends of the Dryline" public-private partnership to support New York City's efforts to implement coastal resiliency projects along the East River from E 23rd St to Battery Place, known as the "Dryline Area". This would involve securing $1 billion in private financing to supplement the $335 million HUD grant for the East Side Coastal Resiliency Project. Private funds could be raised from pension funds and through a progressive surcharge on property and casualty insurance policies in the Dryline Area. Establishing the partnership now would allow for integrated planning and design of the full resiliency network to save costs compared to implementing projects individually over time.
This document provides an agenda for a webinar on September 13, 2011 to launch the REDDy-Set-Grow Part II report. The webinar will include welcome remarks and presentations from representatives of organizations involved in forests and climate change negotiations. Speakers will discuss private sector suggestions for international climate negotiators based on the recommendations in the REDDy-Set-Grow Part II report, which was produced by UNEP Finance Initiative to advise negotiators on catalyzing private investment in reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation. The webinar will focus on the most promising policy scenarios and ways to address risks to private sector investment in REDD+.
The world today has been witnessing phenomenal outgrowth in all fields during the past few decades. This augmentation has been largely stimulated by information and communication technologies (ICT). However, the inexorable evolution of technology and global economic development are being pursued at an ever-increasing societal cost with a snowballing potentially negative impact on the environment. Hence, one of the important challenges modern society faces is sustainability. This article attempts to explore the existing body of knowledge to provide a better understanding of the impact of ICT and digital revolutions on global carbon footprint and emissions. It also attempts to explore the presence of environmental sustainability initiatives in e-government programs worldwide. It presents some thoughts about how governments may address sustainability requirements in their e-government programs and enact responsible ICT-enabled transformation.
The UN explains: Investments in infrastructure – transport, irrigation, energy and information and communication technology – are crucial to achieving sustainable development and empowering communities in many countries. It has long been recognized that growth in productivity and incomes, and improvements in health and education outcomes require investment in infrastructure. How the world is doing, metrics defined to measure success span from road access for rural populations, Passenger and freight volumes, manufacturing value-added as a proportion of GDP and per capita and others, what do the metrics say about ongoing projects, what is needed to run project that improves one or more of the established metrics?
Agenda:
To be discussed with subject-matter experts
1. What is a sustainable infrastructure?
2. What do we mean by "sustainable infrastructure for climate change resilience"?
3. In what consists a "sustainable energy infrastructure"?
4. How to secure the critical sustainable infrastructure?
5. What is the process of digital transformation of sustainable infrastructure?
6. How does financing sustainable infrastructure work?
7. Are there best practices in sustainable infrastructure development projects?
OUR CITIES HOLD THE KEY TO
GLOBAL ECOLOGICAL SUSTAINABILITY.
They are the source of close to 80 per cent of carbon dioxide emissions, and depending on how we develop and manage our urban infrastructures during the next three decades, they could
become either a force for environmental destruction or a primary source of ecological rejuvenation.
To achieve the latter result, the US$350 trillion to be spent on urban infrastructure and usage over the next 30 years will have to be directed towards low to zero carbon emissions, partic-ularly in the world’s small but fastest-growing cities and developing nations, where the largest impacts can be made. There are three prerequisites for this effort:
• Cities must adopt aggressive energy reduction goals and best-practice approaches to urban planning.
• Innovative financing strategies are needed to provide $20 trillion to $30 trillion in funding for additional up-front capital costs, with developed nations working together to assist developing nations in their low-carbon
urban infrastructure initiatives.
• The latest technological advances must be utilized to support and enable the planning, construction, and usage of urban infrastructure in all cities.
If the will can be mustered to aggressively pursue urban sustainability, and these three prerequisites can be put into place, forward-thinking and aspiring urban leaders can generate urgently needed reductions in global emissions, produce attractive economic returns by transforming their cities into centres for ecological innovation, and enhance their energy security.
Connected and Sustainable ICT Infrastructure WhitepaperShane Mitchell
In the policies and plans for sustainability and eco-responsibility in cities, much attention has been directed to three sectors: the built environment, energy, and mobility.
At the beginning of the 21st century, it became obvious that a fourth, equally important element must be addressed: ICT.
To manage ICT effectively, cities need a common framework for data and performance, and a set of solutions for urban sustainability.
The document discusses the importance of conducting comprehensive site investigations and obtaining an accurate report from an EPA-accredited auditor when remediating contaminated land. It outlines a court case where an inaccurate site investigation report led to additional costs and delays for the project. Thorough investigations and reliable reporting are essential to properly assess contamination levels and ensure development projects meet regulatory standards.
This document discusses how geographic information technology (GIT) can help plan a green, low-carbon sustainable city. GIT tools like GIS allow planners to integrate spatial data on factors like population, land use, wind patterns and more to evaluate suitable locations for renewable energy projects. For example, GIS could be used to identify regions with high energy demand and steady winds for a potential wind farm by overlaying wind data with population and land use maps. GIT also enables simulation of scenarios to test things like voltage fluctuation from wind turbines. The document also discusses how building design can promote sustainability through better ventilation and consideration of building height and density to reduce urban heat islands.
The document discusses how ICT can both contribute to and help mitigate climate change through more efficient production and use of technology, enabling remote work and services to reduce transportation needs, and providing tools to monitor climate data and support decision making for mitigation and adaptation strategies. ICT also faces risks from climate impacts but can help enhance resilience through applications that measure risks, inform networks, and support predictive and adaptive planning.
Cities and Climate Change - Cities and climate change mitigationipcc-media
1) A substantial share of future emissions increases will come from cities as urban areas currently generate most GDP and CO2 emissions. The urban population is growing by 1.3 million per week.
2) Cities have opportunities to limit emissions through urban planning measures like increasing density, connectivity, land use mix and transit options as well as building efficiency.
3) Infrastructure development locks in patterns of land use and behavior, so planning now can significantly reduce long-term urban emissions.
This document summarizes a study on the impact of renewable energy on rural development and sustainability in the UK. The study analyzed 12 case studies of different renewable energy technologies through interviews and economic modeling. It found that biomass energy had the largest local economic multipliers, while wind and hydro schemes provided more community benefits than substantive jobs or income. Meeting the UK's 10% renewable energy target by 2010 was estimated to contribute £743 million to rural output and support 2465 full-time rural jobs, with benefits including new employment and income for farmers. However, the study noted that some impacts depend on factors like the location of supply industries and effects on existing agricultural activities.
This document discusses sustainability in the telecommunications industry. It begins by defining sustainability and focusing on environmental sustainability. It then discusses how stakeholders influence sustainability initiatives in the industry. Key stakeholders identified include shareholders, employees, consumers, suppliers, legislative bodies, NGOs, and industry associations. The document also provides an overview of sustainability strategies among nine major European telecom companies.
Ericsson Mobility Report, November 2015 - ICT and the low carbon economyEricsson
The November 2015 edition of the Mobility Report provides updated trends and forecasts for mobile data traffic. From the addition of 87 million new mobile broadband subscriptions in Q3 2015 to the estimate that video will account for 70 percent of total mobile traffic by 2021.
The document summarizes the findings of a real-time Delphi survey and scenario workshop regarding future low-carbon societies in Asia-Pacific beyond 2050. The survey and workshop engaged international experts who identified key trends and events, and their level of agreement on the feasibility and desirability of various statements. While experts were optimistic about technologies to improve healthcare and energy efficiency, they had doubts about carbon capture and widespread algae fuel. They also foresaw conflicts from climate migration and water scarcity.
ICTs as a key technology to help countries adapt to climate changeNAP Events
Presented by: Flavio Cucchietti
SESSION V: PLENARY – TECHNICAL METHODS
This plenary session will introduce the participants to the climate change impacts under the context of the less than 2 °C global temperature limit, and the data, methods and tools for assessing climate risks and vulnerabilities in this context. It will also provide latest approaches on economic appraisal for the formulation and implementation of NAPs, methods and tools and reflections on the science-policy interaction. It will end with a talk on how best to utilize information and communication technologies (ICTs) to support adaptation planning and implementation.
The World Circular Economy Forum presents the world’s best circular economy solutions and gathers together the most recognised experts and decision makers in the field. The event is organised by the Finnish Innovation Fund Sitra. Read more: www.wcef2019.com
Session 6: Scene-setting-Mainstreaming resilience in projects - Sophie Lavaud...OECD Environment
Indonesia is highly vulnerable to climate change risks such as sea level rise, landslides, floods and droughts due to its dense population and dependence on natural resources. Climate change impacts on infrastructure can lead to severe social and economic consequences by disrupting access to basic services. Mainstreaming climate resilience into infrastructure planning can help reduce these risks through fortifying infrastructure, increasing system capacities, and building in higher elevations. This requires assessing climate hazards and risks, adapting planning policies, technical standards, and financing strategies to account for future climate conditions. However, developing climate resilient infrastructure faces challenges from uncertainties around future climate impacts, a lack of climate information, and misaligned incentives across administrative cycles.
GLOBAL INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY INFRASTRUCTURE IN ADDRESSING THE PROBLEM OF ENV...ijitcs
Information Technology (IT) infrastructure and related research communities can help tackle environmental challenges in developing countries through environmentally sustainable models of economic development. The paper sought to examine the status of current and emerging environmentally friendly technologies, equipment and applications in supporting programs that play a role in addressing environment degradation in Kenya. It also sought to underscore the role of IT in environmentally sustainable consumption. The paper examines what constitutes environment degradation and explores the negative effects of IT infrastructure on the environment. The consequences of E-waste on environment are discussed followed by green IT as part of the solution to environment degradation as a result of adoption of IT. The papers also discuss the available IT infrastructure that can be used to combat the challenges of environment degradation. The paper ends with possible IT infrastructure measures that can be used to mitigate environment degradation.
Need of sustainable development and related issues pertaining to process indu...eSAT Publishing House
IJRET : International Journal of Research in Engineering and Technology is an international peer reviewed, online journal published by eSAT Publishing House for the enhancement of research in various disciplines of Engineering and Technology. The aim and scope of the journal is to provide an academic medium and an important reference for the advancement and dissemination of research results that support high-level learning, teaching and research in the fields of Engineering and Technology. We bring together Scientists, Academician, Field Engineers, Scholars and Students of related fields of Engineering and Technology
Similar to Eurosif Infrastructure sector report 2011 (20)
Rapporto Finale “Metodi di acquisizione e riconoscimento delle skills informali dei giovani nell’economia della conoscenza di Milano. Il ruolo dei co-working spaces a Milano”.
A cura di Elanor Colleoni e Adam Arvidsson
This document outlines plans for a Spark Session in Milan on March 11th 2014 to identify potential social innovators. The session will be hosted by Avanzi - Make a Cube and will include introductions, presentations from five keynote speakers, and discussions on opportunities for social innovation. Additionally, shorter Scouting Sessions will be organized in partnership with local organizations to engage more innovators. The goal is to gather ideas and applications to select 8-10 for intensive workshops to refine concepts and develop prototypes as part of scaling up the transition process.
Il Quaderno analizza criticamente il Social Impact Bond (SIB), uno strumento che ha suscitato un grande interesse nel dibattito tra gli addetti ai lavori perché consente di finanziare innovazioni nelle modalità con cui sono affrontati alcuni problemi sociali, ponendo un’enfasi particolare sull’efficacia nel raggiungere i risultati. Come spesso accade per le innovazioni estere, in Italia i SIB hanno trovato un’accoglienza entusiastica e molte proposte di adozione senza che però si siano adeguatamente prese in considerazione le implicazioni connesse al loro utilizzo nel contesto italiano.
In questi mesi registriamo un grande interesse in relazione ad alcuni temi di ricerca cui ci occupiamo da anni: innovazione sociale, social business, impact investing, shared value. Non sempre però questi termini vengono utilizzati correttamente. Abbiamo provato a sistematizzare qualche definizione. Per contribuire a costruire qualche terreno comune. E mettere qualche punto fermo.
Nuove imprese al servizio dei bisogni di Milano in vista di Expo 2015. Crowdsourcing Social Innovation è un percorso che mira a stimolare ed accompagnare la nascita di prodotti-servizi innovativi in vista di Expo Milano 2015 e candidabili per il bando MIUR Smart Cities & Social Innovation. Se siete under 30 e avete delle buone idee, non è proprio il caso di perdere questa occasione.
I servizi su cui si concentrerà il percorso di riflessione e emersione saranno quelli in grado di rispondere a bisogni (sociali e ambientali) emergenti in relazione a grandi eventi (mobilità, ospitalità, pressione sulle risorse naturali, fruizione di beni culturali, etc.).
GraphSummit Singapore | The Future of Agility: Supercharging Digital Transfor...Neo4j
Leonard Jayamohan, Partner & Generative AI Lead, Deloitte
This keynote will reveal how Deloitte leverages Neo4j’s graph power for groundbreaking digital twin solutions, achieving a staggering 100x performance boost. Discover the essential role knowledge graphs play in successful generative AI implementations. Plus, get an exclusive look at an innovative Neo4j + Generative AI solution Deloitte is developing in-house.
GridMate - End to end testing is a critical piece to ensure quality and avoid...ThomasParaiso2
End to end testing is a critical piece to ensure quality and avoid regressions. In this session, we share our journey building an E2E testing pipeline for GridMate components (LWC and Aura) using Cypress, JSForce, FakerJS…
UiPath Test Automation using UiPath Test Suite series, part 6DianaGray10
Welcome to UiPath Test Automation using UiPath Test Suite series part 6. In this session, we will cover Test Automation with generative AI and Open AI.
UiPath Test Automation with generative AI and Open AI webinar offers an in-depth exploration of leveraging cutting-edge technologies for test automation within the UiPath platform. Attendees will delve into the integration of generative AI, a test automation solution, with Open AI advanced natural language processing capabilities.
Throughout the session, participants will discover how this synergy empowers testers to automate repetitive tasks, enhance testing accuracy, and expedite the software testing life cycle. Topics covered include the seamless integration process, practical use cases, and the benefits of harnessing AI-driven automation for UiPath testing initiatives. By attending this webinar, testers, and automation professionals can gain valuable insights into harnessing the power of AI to optimize their test automation workflows within the UiPath ecosystem, ultimately driving efficiency and quality in software development processes.
What will you get from this session?
1. Insights into integrating generative AI.
2. Understanding how this integration enhances test automation within the UiPath platform
3. Practical demonstrations
4. Exploration of real-world use cases illustrating the benefits of AI-driven test automation for UiPath
Topics covered:
What is generative AI
Test Automation with generative AI and Open AI.
UiPath integration with generative AI
Speaker:
Deepak Rai, Automation Practice Lead, Boundaryless Group and UiPath MVP
DevOps and Testing slides at DASA ConnectKari Kakkonen
My and Rik Marselis slides at 30.5.2024 DASA Connect conference. We discuss about what is testing, then what is agile testing and finally what is Testing in DevOps. Finally we had lovely workshop with the participants trying to find out different ways to think about quality and testing in different parts of the DevOps infinity loop.
GraphSummit Singapore | The Art of the Possible with Graph - Q2 2024Neo4j
Neha Bajwa, Vice President of Product Marketing, Neo4j
Join us as we explore breakthrough innovations enabled by interconnected data and AI. Discover firsthand how organizations use relationships in data to uncover contextual insights and solve our most pressing challenges – from optimizing supply chains, detecting fraud, and improving customer experiences to accelerating drug discoveries.
A tale of scale & speed: How the US Navy is enabling software delivery from l...sonjaschweigert1
Rapid and secure feature delivery is a goal across every application team and every branch of the DoD. The Navy’s DevSecOps platform, Party Barge, has achieved:
- Reduction in onboarding time from 5 weeks to 1 day
- Improved developer experience and productivity through actionable findings and reduction of false positives
- Maintenance of superior security standards and inherent policy enforcement with Authorization to Operate (ATO)
Development teams can ship efficiently and ensure applications are cyber ready for Navy Authorizing Officials (AOs). In this webinar, Sigma Defense and Anchore will give attendees a look behind the scenes and demo secure pipeline automation and security artifacts that speed up application ATO and time to production.
We will cover:
- How to remove silos in DevSecOps
- How to build efficient development pipeline roles and component templates
- How to deliver security artifacts that matter for ATO’s (SBOMs, vulnerability reports, and policy evidence)
- How to streamline operations with automated policy checks on container images
LF Energy Webinar: Electrical Grid Modelling and Simulation Through PowSyBl -...DanBrown980551
Do you want to learn how to model and simulate an electrical network from scratch in under an hour?
Then welcome to this PowSyBl workshop, hosted by Rte, the French Transmission System Operator (TSO)!
During the webinar, you will discover the PowSyBl ecosystem as well as handle and study an electrical network through an interactive Python notebook.
PowSyBl is an open source project hosted by LF Energy, which offers a comprehensive set of features for electrical grid modelling and simulation. Among other advanced features, PowSyBl provides:
- A fully editable and extendable library for grid component modelling;
- Visualization tools to display your network;
- Grid simulation tools, such as power flows, security analyses (with or without remedial actions) and sensitivity analyses;
The framework is mostly written in Java, with a Python binding so that Python developers can access PowSyBl functionalities as well.
What you will learn during the webinar:
- For beginners: discover PowSyBl's functionalities through a quick general presentation and the notebook, without needing any expert coding skills;
- For advanced developers: master the skills to efficiently apply PowSyBl functionalities to your real-world scenarios.
Climate Impact of Software Testing at Nordic Testing DaysKari Kakkonen
My slides at Nordic Testing Days 6.6.2024
Climate impact / sustainability of software testing discussed on the talk. ICT and testing must carry their part of global responsibility to help with the climat warming. We can minimize the carbon footprint but we can also have a carbon handprint, a positive impact on the climate. Quality characteristics can be added with sustainability, and then measured continuously. Test environments can be used less, and in smaller scale and on demand. Test techniques can be used in optimizing or minimizing number of tests. Test automation can be used to speed up testing.
UiPath Test Automation using UiPath Test Suite series, part 5DianaGray10
Welcome to UiPath Test Automation using UiPath Test Suite series part 5. In this session, we will cover CI/CD with devops.
Topics covered:
CI/CD with in UiPath
End-to-end overview of CI/CD pipeline with Azure devops
Speaker:
Lyndsey Byblow, Test Suite Sales Engineer @ UiPath, Inc.
zkStudyClub - Reef: Fast Succinct Non-Interactive Zero-Knowledge Regex ProofsAlex Pruden
This paper presents Reef, a system for generating publicly verifiable succinct non-interactive zero-knowledge proofs that a committed document matches or does not match a regular expression. We describe applications such as proving the strength of passwords, the provenance of email despite redactions, the validity of oblivious DNS queries, and the existence of mutations in DNA. Reef supports the Perl Compatible Regular Expression syntax, including wildcards, alternation, ranges, capture groups, Kleene star, negations, and lookarounds. Reef introduces a new type of automata, Skipping Alternating Finite Automata (SAFA), that skips irrelevant parts of a document when producing proofs without undermining soundness, and instantiates SAFA with a lookup argument. Our experimental evaluation confirms that Reef can generate proofs for documents with 32M characters; the proofs are small and cheap to verify (under a second).
Paper: https://eprint.iacr.org/2023/1886
Securing your Kubernetes cluster_ a step-by-step guide to success !KatiaHIMEUR1
Today, after several years of existence, an extremely active community and an ultra-dynamic ecosystem, Kubernetes has established itself as the de facto standard in container orchestration. Thanks to a wide range of managed services, it has never been so easy to set up a ready-to-use Kubernetes cluster.
However, this ease of use means that the subject of security in Kubernetes is often left for later, or even neglected. This exposes companies to significant risks.
In this talk, I'll show you step-by-step how to secure your Kubernetes cluster for greater peace of mind and reliability.
Observability Concepts EVERY Developer Should Know -- DeveloperWeek Europe.pdfPaige Cruz
Monitoring and observability aren’t traditionally found in software curriculums and many of us cobble this knowledge together from whatever vendor or ecosystem we were first introduced to and whatever is a part of your current company’s observability stack.
While the dev and ops silo continues to crumble….many organizations still relegate monitoring & observability as the purview of ops, infra and SRE teams. This is a mistake - achieving a highly observable system requires collaboration up and down the stack.
I, a former op, would like to extend an invitation to all application developers to join the observability party will share these foundational concepts to build on:
Observability Concepts EVERY Developer Should Know -- DeveloperWeek Europe.pdf
Eurosif Infrastructure sector report 2011
1. Infrastructure 12th in a series
his Eurosif sector report has been compiled with research by Dexia Asset Management. It describes the
T major environmental, social and governance (ESG) challenges facing the global infrastructure industry
as well as the associated risks and opportunities these potentially pose for long-term returns.
INFRASTRUCTURE OVERVIEW
The term ‘infrastructure’ traditionally refers to technical facilities As infrastructure assets are the backbone of an economy, they
(assets) and associated services that support an economy, in are at the centre of political and public attention. The
particular: 1 development of infrastructure depends on various social and
● Public utilities (power, telecommunications, piped water supply, geographic factors (i.e. size and age of population, urbanisation
sanitation, sewage, piped gas, waste collection and disposal) rate, resource scarcity, availability of new technologies, etc).
● Public networks (roads, dams, canals)
● Transport (railways, urban transport, ports, waterways, airports)
INFRASTRUCTURE TRENDS
Growing Demand: The world population grew from 1.6 billion Security: Costly preventive and protective measures against
in 1900 to 6.8 billion in 2008, with almost 80% of that increase major accidents, natural disasters or terrorist threats are becoming
having occurred since 1950. Less developed regions now account critical for governments. Moreover, fears of resource scarcity
for 80% of the world’s population, which is projected to reach 9.2 (energy and water) have greatly impacted the infrastructure sector
billion in 2050. Except for Africa, nearly all future population over the past 10 years. Renewable energies (particularly solar and
growth will take place in urban areas.2 According to the OECD wind), waste and water treatment plants, as well as new
'Infrastructure to 2030' project, about €1.5 trillion would be information and communication technologies have all
required annually to finance world infrastructure by 2030, revolutionised the global infrastructure landscape.
including additions and renewal.3
Financing: Government spending in fixed assets has continuously Climate Change: Adaptation and mitigation measures are
decreased for the past 20 years. States are now seeking alternative becoming the drivers of new investment. Over the past decade, the
financing methods, such as privatisation of former public assets, number and intensity of extreme events (droughts, floods, storms,
public-private partnerships (PPP) or Build-Own-Operate-Transfers etc.) have increased, considerably damaging existing assets: the
(BOOT4). Private investment in developing countries often relates insurance industry estimates that overall losses reached €98 billion
more to trade services (such as telecom and transportation) than ($130 billion) in 2010, inclusive of natural disasters.7 Infrastructure
health provision systems (such as water and sanitation). assets also have a role to play in the moderation of certain
Paradoxically, developing countries have reached 68% of mobile environmental impacts. Most of these mitigation measures require
cellular penetration rates at the end of 2010,5 while almost half the the sector to develop new forms of expertise (e.g. smart grid, carbon
population of the developing world does not have access to capture and storage).8
adequate sanitation.6
Total Investment Commitments to Infrastructure Projects with Private Participation in Developing Countries, by subsector, 1990-2008
Source: World Bank and PPIAF, PPI Project Database
1
World Bank, “Infrastructure for Development”, 1994. 6
United Nations Environmental Programme & United Nations Habitat, “SICK WATER? The Central Role of
2
United Nations, “World Population Prospects: The 2006 Revision”, 2007. Wastewater Management in Sustainable Development”, 2010.
3
Barrie Stevens, “Global Infrastructures to 2030”, OECD, 29 April 2008. 7
Munich Re, “Overall Picture of Natural Catastrophes in 2010”, Press Release, 3 January 2011.
4
After construction and years of operation, the asset is sold to the public sector. 8
Audrey Holm, ”Infrastructures in the Face of Climate Change: What Implications for Long-term
5
International Telecommunication Union, “ICT - The World in 2010”, October 2010. Investors?”, CDC Climat Research, May 2010.
2. KEY CHALLENGES ESG ISSUES
● According to the Transparency International Bribe ● Lobbying practices are also common in the
Payer Index, construction and public work contracts are infrastructure sector, particularly at the upstream level
among the areas that rank the highest in terms of where strategic decisions (ex. rail vs. road, wind vs. solar,
bribery and legal/illegal payments to influence project wireless vs. fixed broadband) are made.
outcomes.9
Corruption and ● Bribes can be instrumental in obtaining building
mandates or receiving and extending concession
Lobbying contracts. Even though the rules of public market
attribution are increasingly geared towards more
transparency, corruption seems to be greater in
developing countries.
● The spectrum of direct and indirect environmental ● As for energy consumption and GHG emissions, the
impacts of infrastructure projects is very large and power generation sector clearly dominates, accounting
often specific to the type of asset. Asset construction, for approximately 37% of global greenhouse gas
use, retrofitting and decommissioning steps have an emissions. The shift to more renewable energy sources
Environmental effect on the surrounding environment.
consumption of water, energy and material resources,
The is possible, but operational improvements on existing
plants is also necessary: older power plants consume
Impacts water and air pollution (including greenhouse gases), between 18 and 44% more fuel per kilowatt hour than
noise, and loss of biodiversity are among the most similar new power systems operating to their best
commonly observed impacts. practice levels. They also have a greater transmission
and distribution loss.10
● The social license to operate an infrastructure asset is ● Land requisition or forced property sale is likely in the
almost always controversial. vicinity of infrastructure projects. In developing
countries, where property rights do not always exist,
● Infrastructure assets, even if serving the local economy, massive population displacement and relocation may
are also sources of concern for local populations as they occur.
Social Acceptance can be visually intrusive and may have adverse effects
on local amenities by physically dividing
and Community neighbourhoods.11 Air pollutants, electromagnetic
Relations waves, radiation, noise disturbances and landscape
disruption are all important issues to local
communities, as these impact their life and their
physical and mental well-being.
● The privatisation of public services, such as electricity, countries for a greater share of the population.
gas distribution or public transport, raises concerns over
the access to these services. ● A wide diversity of wealth within a fragmented
The Specific ● Access is defined as the ability to use the considered
customer base means that some customers must rely
on subsidies to obtain access to certain services.
Question of Access service without restriction at an affordable price, with Urbanisation in developing countries and increased
some guarantee on its reliability. This theme is energy/water prices in developed countries also add to
especially relevant in developed countries for low- the importance of such subsidies.
income and remote customers, and in developing
● Due to the essential nature of infrastructure, ● For example, both the 2003 Italian blackout and
disturbance in production, distribution and supply can Eurocontrol’s prediction of 20 major European airports
have considerable impacts on customers and the reaching critical overflow by 2030 are dreadful
Service Quality economy in general. situations that governments can avoid with proper
infrastructure systems.
9
Transparency International, “Emerging Economic Giants Show High Levels of Corporate Bribery Overseas”, 9 December 2008.
10
World Bank, “Infrastructure for Development”, 1994.
11
Commission of the European Communities, “Thematic Strategy on Air Pollution”, 2005.
3. BUSINESS RISKS & OPPORTUNITIES
● Financial penalties for corruption practices are an important risk for ● As bribery practices may involve double accounting systems, companies
companies. Another risk is the potential loss of governmental contracts. For that demonstrate proactive behaviour in addressing corruption (i.e.
instance, the World Bank has blacklisted certain construction companies, compliance officers, business integrity policies, regular training of
because they were found to have violated fraud and corruption provisions in employees, appropriate monitoring) will have a better control of their
the procurement guidelines.12 Litigation and remediation costs can also put operations, even when highly decentralised.
an extra burden on companies’ finances.
● Strict monitoring of lobbying practices, as well as proper disclosure of
● Regulation, such as the 2010 UK Bribery Bill, which introduces the concept expenditures and targeted lobby groups, are positive steps to maintaining
of “negligently failing to prevent bribery,” requires companies to guarantee good working relationships.
the robustness of their compliance systems.
● While the Lobbying Disclosure Act of 1995 requires mandatory public
disclosure in the United States, disclosure on lobbying practices is still
voluntary in Europe, leaving comprehensive figures unavailable.
● The 'greening' of the energy mix in infrastructural operations, for instance ● Public authorities increasingly require that projects internalise the service
switching to renewable energies, can be expensive. Carbon offset credits costs of adverse environmental externalities. Environmental impact
may be a cheaper option, although their availability may be limited. assessment is increasingly common for large infrastructure projects
(supported by the World Bank and the EIA).13 Successful experiences and
● Opting for non-green infrastructure projects means increased costs in a demonstrated commitment will bear positively on authorities.
near- and long-term future, including: remediation costs (financial
compensation), reputational costs, compliance costs (stricter environmental ● Greener solutions for transportation infrastructure may considerably
norms) and supply costs (energy and water). improve emissions and consumption performance. For example, better
pavement on motorways and the availability of e-technologies to improve
traffic fluidity result in lower CO2 emissions. Similarly, the electrification of
existing rail lines will ensure sustainable growth levels.
● Most of these disturbances are difficult to avoid, but companies may reduce ● Authorities will give priority to operators who can ensure better
their impact on communities. If this impact is not reduced, the development transparency on infrastructure development. The upstream involvement of
of the infrastructure may be delayed or even cancelled. The cost of stakeholders is imperative.
additional measures to protect inhabitants from nuisances may accumulate.
● Some factors can contribute to better acceptance of infrastructure projects.
● Communities and public officials may slow down infrastructure projects by For instance, in their operational phase, most infrastructure assets are both
blocking permits or delaying construction. human capital and knowledge intensive. These assets require large numbers
of workers, which benefits the local labour pool and economic
● When dealing with the privatisation of former public services, the proper development.
management of the transition period is critical in order to avoid service
disruptions (e.g. strikes). ● Projects with recognised efforts to improve the local economic situation will
be favoured. The introduction of specific partnerships with local training
centres, apprenticeships and lifelong learning mechanisms for workers all
lend to the social acceptance of a project.
● Companies have an interest in appropriately managing access to ● Taking access issues into account can offer companies a competitive
infrastructure, particularly to avoid disadvantageous regulation advantage. Governments are weary of population dissatisfaction as it may
adjustments (such as tax, competition or environmental policies). have immediate political consequences. Thus, when privatising former
public assets, governments will favour bidding companies that place
● The main risks that companies face associated with access issues are the loss importance on the question of access.
of contracts and the seizure of assets, as well as the nationalisation of
services. ● Good relationships with public authorities and customers can be preserved
through various multilateral initiatives (local presence and local mediation
initiatives, technology transfer programs, innovative project financing, etc.).
● Apart from the direct cost of poor quality (e.g. maintenance costs, service ● Putting in place adequate management systems to ensure short and long-
restoration costs), the reputation of the entity is clearly affected and term availability and reliability of services and conflict mitigation
impacts customers’ loyalty. (mediation process, ombudsman, etc.) are essential features for success.
● Regulators often provide incentives and mechanisms to improve customer ● The appropriate recruitment and training of staff, as well as the introduction
service: bad performance can induce further loss of revenue as the operator of new technologies (Information Control Technology, smart grid) and
loses incentives and incurs penalties. changes in planning/maintenance approaches are necessary to avoid service
failures.
12
World Bank, “World Bank Listing of Ineligible Firms & Individuals: Fraud and Corruption”, 2010.
13
World Bank, “Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA)”, 2010.; European Commission on Environment, “Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)”, 2010.
4. CASE STUDIES
Access to Electricity in South Africa The French Road to Preservation
While South Africa is experiencing an unprecedented economic A 2x2 lane motorway linking Bordeaux to Pau was inaugurated
Designer: Catsaï - www.catsai.net / The views in this document do not necessarily represent the views of all Eurosif member affiliates. This publication should not be taken as financial advice or seen as an endorsement of any particular company, organisation or individual.
boom, inequality among the population is still an important concern in December 2010, after more than 2 years of construction.
that may endanger the country’s development. With a GDP per A'Liénor (structure co-owned by Eiffage and Sanef) was
capita over $7,000 (€5,300) in 201014, the country aims to secure its responsible for designing, financing and building this motorway
development and particularly limit massive electricity shortages. and will oversee operations and maintenance for the next 55
years. The authorities' choice to build this motorway was
In 2002, 76% of South African households had access to electricity. motivated by safety and economic development reasons.
In 2009, this share increased to 82% and a 100% target has been set Although this project is still criticized (opponents mostly doubt
for 2015.15 Improved access and the growing industrialisation of the traffic targets will be reached, especially with the high toll fees),
country are both putting further pressure on the energy supply. the A65 is proudly the first “Grenelle compatible” motorway.19
In 2008, Eskom (the national power utility company) and the Minerals Approximately €200 million was dedicated by A'Liénor to
& Energy Department released a new plan to enhance the country's specific environmental measures, accounting for more than 15%
electricity distribution structure and electricity projects by of the total motorway cost. The initial project (initiated before
independent power producers.16 Eskom expects to double its capacity the Grenelle laws were passed) was revised: the full layout was
to 80,000 MW by 2026.17 reconsidered, with new civil engineering structures added to
avoid detrimental impact on fragile wetland ecosystems and a
Today, access to electricity has surged, and it will aid South Africa’s new modus operandi was established. Even after this first
development, notably by improving quality of life. However, there is reshuffling, environmental experts estimated that 590 out of the
a serious environmental impact of this increased production as the concerned 1,500 hectares of biodiversity were still at risk, due to
current South African energy mix is highly carbon intensive, with presence of endangered species such as the European mink, otter
more than 93% of South African electricity production relying on and white-footed crayfish. A'Liénor then introduced
coal at the end of 2008. In October 2010, Eskom announced that it compensation measures to limit the impact on biodiversity, by
was reopening the coal-fired Camden power plant (decommissioned creating 1,372 hectares of impact-offset zones. The company is
in 1988), thus adding 1520MW to the national grid. sponsoring economic development and landscape projects in the
vicinity.
The social benefits of access to electricity have been favoured over
‘greener’ forms of energy supply. Nevertheless, Eskom has remained People who buy or rent land near the A65 must sign conventions
mindful of environmental issues. Since 2004, the company has led a to guarantee the development and/or the maintenance of
customer awareness campaign on energy efficiency. This initiative is ecological/green corridors to preserve species. The monitoring
aimed at all sectors, but particularly focuses on residential cooking and management of these sites will be entrusted to relevant
practices. During the evening peak demand period, Eskom broadcasts NGOs.20
a “Power Alert” which prompts residential consumers to switch off all
“not absolutely essential loads.” This public message has proven
effective in avoiding power rationing.18
Infrastructure projects that juggle both social and environmental factors
may struggle to balance these, and therefore, trade-offs can be unavoidable.
14
International Monetary Fund, “World Economic Outlook Database”, October 2010. 19
The Grenelle Environment Project was launched in 2007, bringing together French government
15
United Nations, “Republic of South Africa, Millennium Development Goals, Country Report”, 2010. and multi-stakeholders' representatives to define key points of government policy on ecological
16
Republic of South Africa, “Department of Minerals and Energy Strategic Plan 2008/9 – 2010/11”, and sustainable development issues. This consultation's results were materialised in two laws (res-
16 May 2008. pectively promulgated in June 2009 and July 2010) that impact most business sectors.
17
Eskom, “Build Programme in South Africa: Background”, April 2009. 20
Les Echos, "L'A65, Première Autoroute en Ligne avec le Grenelle", 15 December 2010.; Le
18
Eskom, “Energy Efficiency”, 2007. Monde, "La Nouvelle Autoroute A65 s'accompagne de Contreparties Environnementales sans
précédent", 17 December 2010.
Eurosif wishes to acknowledge the support and direction provided by the Infrastructure Sector Report Steering Committee:
CDC Climat
CM-CIC Asset Management
Threadneedle Asset Management Ltd.
This sector report has been compiled by :
La Ruche - 84 quai de Jemmapes • 75010 Paris • France Place Rogier 11 • B-1210 Brussels • Belgium
Tel: +33 (0)1 40 20 43 38 Tel: +32 2 222 11 11
contact@eurosif.org • www.eurosif.org investor.support-dam@dexia.com • www.dexia-am.com
February 2011