Ecuador’s Amazon ban: conservation complexities, Allianz’s bold commitment and urban green investments
We are so pleased to announce Invert has signed a MOU with the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States to work together to advance carbon reduction and removal initiatives in the Caribbean. “This partnership exemplifies the power and importance of collaboration in tackling climate change, one of the most pressing issues of our time.” Andre Fernandez, Co-CEO of Invert.
Ecuadorian referendums to ban oil drilling in a part of the Amazon have passed, despite warnings from oil and mining groups about billions of dollars in lost income. The area is an UNESCO-designated biosphere reserve, home to two uncontacted indigenous groups, and might be the world’s most important biodiversity hotspot.
After South American leaders failed to agree on a pledge to safeguard the Amazon, Ecuador has emerged as a pioneering force within its region. The preservation of the Amazon rainforest is a global concern due to its crucial role in mitigating climate change, being home to diverse ecosystems, and supporting communities. Yet, the complexities of these tasks are multifaceted, demanding comprehensive strategies that strike a delicate balance between safeguarding the natural heritage and addressing the pressing needs of the communities and economies intertwined with this ecosystem.
Interested in learning how to holistically protect the Amazon? Let’s chat.
Allianz, a German multinational insurance and investment group, unveiled ambitious climate commitments to invest $21 billion in climate solutions by 2030. They also reiterated their 2030 and 2050 net zero goals and commitment to accelerate their decarbonization efforts despite exiting the Net Zero Insurance Alliance due to political pressures in the US.
Insurance companies have a vested interest in reducing climate change as they may face increased losses due to more frequent and severe weather events and other climate-related exposes. By investing in climate solutions and accelerating their efforts, Alliance can reduce their long-term financial risks linked to climate-related events, including natural disasters and climate-related claims.
A growing body of evidence suggests that increasing high quality green space can generate wide-ranging benefits to the three pillars of sustainable development: the environment, the economy and wider society. While the costs of implementing such projects are well understood, their ultimate return on investment requires more documentation. This recognition of economic benefits could influence decision-making, fostering the integration of green infrastructure in cities, potentially enhancing property values and overall well-being.
The business case for green spaces is a strategic approach to gain stakeholders’ support and awareness to foster sustainable cities and communities. Understanding and materializing economic benefits such as reduced energy costs, decreased stormwater treatment costs, increased property values, people satisfaction, and lower health costs can open the door for standardized processes, procedures and decision-making.
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