“All aboard!” E-Ferry Ellen and the future of electric shipping Interview Electrifying European transport is a clear-cut way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. In Denmark, the pioneering electric car ferry “Ellen” connects the port of Fynshav and the island of Ærø. European Mobility Atlas 2021 Chief Executive Editor Philipp Cerny interviewed Halfdan Abrahamsen from the Municipality of Ærø’s Energy and Environment Office. By Philipp Cerny
The European Green Deal's fitness test – Will the EU’s Fit-for-55 package ensure reaching the climate goal? Analysis On 14 July 2021, the European Commission will present its proposals for implementing the EU Climate Law - the so-called “Fit-for-55” package. This will be the starting signal for one of the most important EU debates of the next years: how can the EU reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 55% by 2030 and how can it become climate neutral by 2050? By Lisa Tostado and Martin Keim
Covid-19 Recovery in Southeast Asia: Snapshots from Metro Manila, the Philippines Photo essay A Photo Essay by Aildrene Tan By Aildrene Tan
Covid-19, Bangkok, and Its People Photo essay A Photo Essay by Amphon Chansirisri By Amphon Chansirisri
Covid-19 recovery in Southeast Asia: Jakarta, oh Jakarta! Photo essay In the Indonesian capital, people cope with the COVID-19 pandemic through a newfound hobby: riding bikes. One sees countless cycling-related photos and stories, which are widely circulated by social media-savvy Indonesians. The photos show people’s daily commutes and activities, such as family time by the beach or going to markets or shopping malls, while trying their best to practice and to follow safe physical distancing, wearing mask and washing hands. By William Kalengkongan
Does data protection safeguard against gender-based risks in Southern Africa? E-paper The increasing data-driven nature of societies raises concerns about how to prevent data misuse and abuse that may harm individuals and communities, particularly marginalized groups. A feminist critique of the model law on data protection of the Southern African Development Community and the EU’s GDPR, however highlights the dangerous gaps that place women and gender-diverse people at risk. By Chenai Chair
Artificial distinction between climate change adaptation and development restricts access to climate finance for developing countries E-paper Urgently addressing the growing impact of climate change in developing countries, especially on the most poor and marginalized people and communities, requires a better understanding of what constitutes adaptation, how it applies in local contexts, and how to increase the quantity and quality of financing provided for such measures. By Harjeet Singh and Indrajit Bose
Just and sustainable finance to address multiple global crises demands a focus on gender equality E-paper In this time of triple crises, with intersecting impacts from the pandemic, the climate emergency, and persistent economic inequality, the global community and its leaders face a “Kairos moment” – a turning point at a critical time for action. The choice is whether to continue with failed policies that have brought the world to this perilous juncture or to retool global economies and systems. Imaginative and transformative approaches could address climate change and other environmental, health, and social threats, based on equity and justice, including gender-equitable access to sustainable finance. By Mariama Williams
Green jobs: the rhetoric and the reality Commentary Britain has been promised a quarter of a million ‘green jobs’. But as the government continues to struggle to contain Covid-19, the details are lacking. Ros Taylor looks at the scale of the UK’s ambition and some of the obstacles to decarbonisation. By Ros Taylor
How to feed an island? Japan and the German CAP Strategic Plan Analysis The Common Market Organization (CMO), insufficient grazing subsidies and eco-schemes. An explainer about how EU dairy exports could increase rural unemployment and food poverty in Japan. By Hans Wetzels