Between 2011 and 2021, Paraguay’s forest coverage fell from 48.2% to 39.8%, with 88% of the deforestation happening in the Paraguayan Chaco, largely due to cattle ranching and coal mining. Domestic laws allow most of these clearances, as they require preserving only 25% of forested land in ranching or mining areas. As part of ongoing efforts and updates on SDG 15 in Paraguay, the country signed the Glasgow Leaders’ Declaration on Forests and Land Use in 2021, pledging to halt and reverse deforestation and forest degradation, according to the World Bank. This commitment aligns with SDG 15 (“Life on Land”), which focuses on the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of ecosystems, like forests.
However, critics argue that this pledge has been vague and ineffective. Rather than achieving its goal of forest preservation, the declaration has resulted in deforestation, permitting invasive eucalyptus plantations to replace biodiverse ecosystems and encroach upon Indigenous lands, the World Bank reports.
According to the World Bank, this issue particularly affects Paraguay’s Indigenous communities, who suffer disproportionately from environmental changes. Approximately 66% of Indigenous people live in poverty, with 34.4% living in extreme poverty—three times the national average. Additionally, 33.5% of Indigenous people are illiterate, less than 1% have access to the Internet and less than 4% benefit from state social protection programs. These conditions heighten the vulnerability of groups like the Qom in the Chaco forest, whose livelihoods are further endangered by harmful eucalyptus plantations introduced under the pretext of conservation, the World Bank reports. This is because Indigenous communities often depend on natural resources for their daily needs, such as gathering and agriculture, as well as for maintaining cultural practices. Here is some information about updates on SDG 15 in Paraguay.
Understanding REDD+
In 2007, the forestry sector accounted for about 17% of global greenhouse gas emissions, prompting the creation of REDD+, an international mechanism designed to reduce deforestation while maintaining forests as carbon sinks. Initially known as REDD, U.N. climate negotiations later expanded it and incorporated it into the Paris Agreement under Article 5. REDD+ now includes conservation, sustainable forest management, and enhancing forest carbon stocks in developing countries. The initiative incentivizes nations to preserve forests by offering financial rewards, making standing forests more valuable than cleared ones.
COP introduced safeguards for REDD+ projects to prevent harm, such as violations of Indigenous rights. These safeguards ensure Indigenous communities and other relevant groups fully participate in decision-making. For nations to receive financial rewards, they must submit reports proving their compliance with these safeguards.
Additionally, the COP urged capable countries to “support capacity-building, provide technical assistance” and facilitate technology transfer to strengthen the effectiveness of these initiatives.
The Corazón Verde del Chaco Project: A Case Study
In 2023, Paraguay’s largest REDD+ initiative, the Corazón Verde del Chaco Project, gained validation for its Climate, Community and Biodiversity (CCB) Standards from the nonprofit organization Verra. This validation demonstrates that the project reduces carbon emissions while also promoting biodiversity conservation and benefiting local communities, including Indigenous peoples.
By earning this validation, the project adds credibility and transparency, making it more attractive to investors and helping secure results-based payments. Covering approximately 300,000 hectares of Indigenous community lands shared by the Maria Auxiliadora community, interviews with community leaders confirmed no evidence that the REDD+ project negatively impacted Indigenous communities.
The Role of REDD+ in Achieving SDGs
REDD+ plays a critical role in Paraguay’s efforts to meet the U.N.’s SDGs, particularly SDG 15 on forest conservation and SDG 10 on reducing inequalities. In the latest updates on SDG 15 in Paraguay, REDD+ aligns with SDG 15 by promoting forest conservation and sustainable land use, offering a more equitable development approach compared to land clearing for cattle ranching and mining. Achieving SDG 15 encourages practices that protect natural resources, which many of Paraguay’s poorest communities, especially Indigenous peoples, rely on for their livelihoods. In addition, REDD+ projects reduce inequalities (SDG 10) by safeguarding the rights of marginalized groups and ensuring they fully participate in decision-making processes, per the safeguards introduced at COP 16.
Future Prospects
Looking forward, ongoing updates on SDG 15 in Paraguay include projects like the Corazón Verde del Chaco initiative, which, with its Verra certification, aims to reduce net greenhouse gas emissions by an estimated 5.6 million tons of CO2 over its initial 10-year period, according to Quadriz. Beyond reducing emissions, this project will likely strengthen the capacity of local communities in the Paraguayan Chaco, potentially by employing Indigenous technicians to monitor forests, as seen in previous REDD+ initiatives in Paraguay.
The initiative also includes gender-focused projects, such as creating childcare spaces, which enable Indigenous women to participate fully in decision-making and workshops. The project’s scale presents an opportunity to expand these benefits, alleviating stress on Indigenous women across Paraguay. By empowering communities and addressing issues like invasive eucalyptus plantations, this initiative seeks to promote better forest management nationwide while preventing the marginalization of Indigenous groups.
– William Pickering
William is based in Nottingham, UK and focuses on Good News and Technology for The Borgen Project.
Photo: Flickr
The Havids’ Initiatives for Youth and Community Development
Recognizing the urgent need for change, The Havids Center for Environment and Development (The Havids), founded in 1992, has embarked on a mission to empower Nigerian youths living in the delta region and even beyond. To achieve this, The Havids’ initiatives have been implemented, including:
The Scholar Diplomats – Building Future Leaders
The Havids designed the Scholar Diplomats program to nurture a new generation of leaders who are academically proficient and deeply committed to social change. The organization carefully selects bright young minds from the community and provides them with rigorous training in diplomacy, environmental stewardship and leadership. The program equips participants with the skills and knowledge needed to address local challenges while thinking globally.
The Wintersteen Hub: A Beacon of Hope
The Wintersteen Hub is a community center that serves as the focal point of The Havids’ efforts in Bakana (Rivers State, Nigeria) and its environs. The Hub offers a range of programs aimed at combating poverty, including a library, vocational training, entrepreneurship support and environmental education. It also serves as a safe space for community members to access resources, such as Internet services, educational materials and health information.
More than 200 individuals have completed vocational training programs at the Hub, with many going on to start their own businesses or secure gainful employment. Additionally, the Hub’s focus on environmental education has significantly reduced deforestation in the area, as community members have learned about sustainable farming practices and the importance of preserving their natural surroundings.
Reusable Sanitary Menstrual Pads for Schoolgirls
The Havids also addresses period poverty among schoolgirls in the Niger Delta through the Reusable Sanitary Menstrual Pads for Schoolgirls project. In many impoverished communities, young girls often miss school due to a lack of access to sanitary products, leading to significant disruptions in their education.
To combat this, the organization provides reusable sanitary pads to schoolgirls, ensuring they can attend school with dignity and without interruption. The Reusable Sanitary Menstrual Pads for Schoolgirls project has kept more than 500 girls in school, reducing absenteeism and empowering them to pursue their education without the stigma and challenges associated with inadequate menstrual care.
By educating girls about menstrual health and providing sustainable, cost-effective solutions, The Havids not only helps to keep them in school but also empowers them with the knowledge and confidence they need to succeed.
Practical Leadership Awards for Youths (PLAY)
PLAY, another of The Havids’ initiatives, seeks to recognize and empower young individuals who demonstrate exceptional leadership and a commitment to community development. It gives this award to youths who have shown a remarkable attitude toward tackling local issues, whether through innovative projects, community service or environmental conservation efforts.
Recipients of the PLAY award receive not only recognition but also mentorship opportunities, funding for their projects and the chance to network with other young leaders. By shining a spotlight on these young changemakers, PLAY aims to inspire a new generation of leaders dedicated to creating a poverty-free future for the Niger Delta and beyond.
The Havids’ efforts, demonstrated through these initiatives, are a testament to the power of innovative, community-driven solutions to poverty. By focusing on education, leadership and sustainable development, The Havids is not only changing the narrative in the Niger Delta but also inspiring others globally to take action.
– Staff Reports
Photo: Pexels
Addressing Health Initiatives With Oxfam in South Sudan
Taking Action
Oxfam’s health interventions include installing wells remote water and sanitation stations, increasing food security and protecting land rights and natural resources, particularly for farmers. Oxfam has provided aid by distributing food to more than 415,000 individuals and helping more than 140,000 people reach clean water and sanitation stations throughout their time in the country.
It is increasing access to these resources by prioritizing the islands closest to Nyal, where a majority of families are coming from. To support the influx of people coming in, Oxfam provides emergency services to communities by increasing gardens, water storage points, bathing facilities and providing cooking and farming supplies. This empowers communities to rebuild their livelihoods to support their families long-term. The number of refugees seeking aid in the country has increased 10 times since gaining independence, reaching about 107,000 people in 2012.
Hunger
In addition to an increase in refugees, more than half of the population of South Sudan already lives in extreme hunger. The state relies heavily on imported foods and with the impact of border conflicts making imports less accessible, inflation is at a high. Increasing food prices make it more difficult for people to feed their families, increasing widespread famine and malnutrition. Not only does Oxfam provide families with the tools necessary to restabilize, but it also teaches them efficient farming and planting techniques. These processes could improve their crop yield and soil fertility, ensuring successful food production for future generations.
Impact of Flooding in South Sudan
The country has faced severe floods for consecutive years since 2018, now leaving approximately 70% of the country covered in water. This destroys homes, farmland, schools and health centers and washes away roads, making transportation and importation incredibly difficult. Due to heavy periods of rainfall, flooding disperses and does not permeate the already saturated soil, making large portions of land inaccessible. This increases displacement as communities lose their homes, farmland and livestock. In turn, this increases the number of individuals requiring food, shelter, clean water and medical aid, increasing Oxfam initiatives throughout the entire country.
Canoe Vouchers
A town in South Sudan that has been especially welcoming to refugees, Nyal, has become home to many individuals searching for food and shelter. Through support from Oxfam and Irish Aid, the community offers canoe transportation to and from Nyal based on a free voucher system to help displaced individuals access food and medical care. Traveling by foot is considered unsafe for women, making canoe transportation the more efficient and protected route, taking about three days to cross the swamps. This program also provides jobs for community members, allowing both men and women to establish a stable income to support their families for the first time since 2013.
Supporting Women
Oxfam is specifically addressing issues of under-reported instances of sexual violence against women in South Sudan. In heightened periods of conflict, sexual exploitation is used as a war tool and is often overlooked regarding the outcomes of war. Oxfam is creating safe spaces to offer medical aid and educate women about their rights. Women are encouraged to find a sense of community among each other and to feel empowered to ensure their rights are not violated.
At the Jamam camp located in the Upper Nile region, Oxfam conducted research to ensure safe and clean access to water collection points and lavatory facilities. A survey revealed that more than 10% of women felt there was not enough privacy in public restrooms, Oxfam increased separation and staffing, prioritizing the safety and wellbeing of these women. Prioritizing privacy as well as sanitation also helps prevent the spread of diseases. Staff is constantly reviewing feedback and comments from community members on how these resources can be improved.
Overall Impact in South Sudan
These ongoing efforts increase community resilience, improve health and reduce poverty. Oxfam is critical in on-ground relief for refugees and struggling communities in Sudan and regions across southern Africa. Oxfam supports more than 500,000 individuals in these areas with long-term and emergency care. It is actively working to provide access to clean water and sanitation for 90,000 people in South Sudan and is working to reach a goal of $7 million to expand its reach to aid 400,000 people. The organization has been incredibly successful in addressing health concerns and rising poverty levels through life-saving initiatives with Oxfam in South Sudan. These major efforts providing health aid to those displaced have been incredibly beneficial to families looking to reestablish their communities and stability in uncertain times.
– Lauren Sellman
Photo: Flickr
Rays of Hope Support Initiative: Path to Healthier Lives in Ibadan
Nigeria’s Silent Health Crisis: Hypertension and Diabetes
More than 20 million Nigerians are living and battling with hypertension silently, while more than 11 million live with diabetes. More than half of those affected by these silent killers are unaware of their health status. Even among those who are aware, many are not taking action. Those trying to seek care are hindered by economic challenges and unable to afford or access health care. As a result, they resign to their fate, waiting for the inevitable.
Nearly 30% of deaths in Nigeria, either at the hospital or at home, stem from NCDs. The nation’s potential brightest contributors are lost to these illnesses. The most vulnerable are hit hardest, as a lack of resources cuts their dreams short.
Rays of Hope Support Initiative
Rays of Hope Support Initiative (ROHSI) has been operational since 2017. Located in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria. ROHSI is dedicated to combating the rising burden of NCDs in Ibadan and Nigeria, where it has been implementing innovative solutions to address these pressing issues. As an organization working within the NCD health space, ROHSI has focused on empowering vulnerable populations, such as older people, women and children, who are disproportionately affected by NCDs. This involves providing targeted interventions, addressing social determinants of health and ensuring equitable access to health care services.
The ROHSI team, since inception, has been working closely with local health care providers through collaboration and partnerships to ensure that individuals with NCDs, especially hypertension and diabetes, receive appropriate treatment and care. This includes providing access to essential medications and connecting patients with support services. Through its community-based health education initiative, the organization conducts regular health education programs to raise awareness about NCDs, especially hypertension and diabetes, their risk factors and preventive measures.
These sessions are tailored to the specific needs of the community, ensuring that information is accessible and understandable. Furthermore, the ROHSI early detection and screening program allows for timely intervention, reducing the likelihood of severe complications, therefore saving many lives from avoidable deaths.
Impact of Rays of Hope Support Initiative
ROHSI’s efforts have yielded significant results in improving the health and well-being of the community in Ibadan. It has educated more than 10,000 citizens on disease prevention with an emphasis on hypertension and diabetes. The organization has made an impact across three states, reaching more than 5,000 direct beneficiaries through free screenings and medication.
The nonprofit currently has a thriving online community with access to daily, up-to-date health tips. More than 1,500 members are part of its combined Facebook group, with thousands more across other social media platforms, where they access up-to-date information on health-related issues.
Many of ROHSI’s community members have reported a significant improvement in their quality of life as a result of the team interventions, including reduced symptoms, increased energy levels and greater independence.
Final Note
ROHSI has strengthened its community members’ resilience by empowering individuals to take control of their health and well-being. It has done so through daily health tips and free access to its medical team for guidance on health and wellness issues. The organization has advocated for favorable health policy changes from the Nigerian government and policymakers to address the root causes of NCDs and improve access to health care services in Nigeria. It does this by fostering partnerships and collaborations with like-minded local and international organizations.
– Staff Reports
Photo: ROHSI
Mental Health in Benin: Challenges and Progress
Poverty and mental health are deeply intertwined in Benin, where nearly 38.5% of the population lives below the poverty line. Poverty exacerbates mental health issues, creating barriers to accessing necessary care. Mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression disproportionately affect individuals in low-income settings due to stress, lack of support, and stigma. These findings echo broader trends seen in other low- and middle-income countries, as outlined by the World Bank, which identifies the lack of infrastructure as a key impediment to effective mental health interventions.
Challenges in Mental Health Accessibility
Access to mental health services in Benin is limited, with the majority of specialized care facilities located in urban centers like Cotonou and Porto-Novo, leaving rural populations underserved. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the country faces critical shortages in mental health professionals, with fewer than one psychiatrist per 100,000 people. Additionally, there are only a handful of psychiatric hospitals, and mental health care is often integrated into general hospitals, which lack the necessary resources and trained personnel. This imbalance between urban and rural health care access is further exacerbated by societal stigma, which discourages individuals from seeking treatment, and the absence of a comprehensive national mental health strategy.
Role of Poverty in Amplifying Mental Health Issues
From a human rights and social justice perspective, this cycle of poverty and poor mental health represents a critical ethical issue. According to the International Covenant of Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, “everyone has a right to the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health”. However, as Paul Farmer notes, the needs of the world’s poor are often overlooked, and the structural inequalities that perpetuate mental health disparities are frequently neglected by global health and foreign policy communities. Addressing these inequalities requires integrating human rights frameworks into public health strategies, emphasizing beneficence, autonomy, and resource equity to empower marginalized populations and break the cycle of poverty and mental illness.
Progress Through Community-Based Interventions
Efforts in Benin such as the “Saint Camille Solution” have made strides in addressing mental health challenges through community-based interventions. These include awareness campaigns, support groups and partnerships with international NGOs for resource mobilization. Such programs highlight the importance of addressing both societal stigma and resource allocation.
Moving Forward: Policy and Investment Needs
While some progress has been made, significant work remains to fully integrate mental health into Benin’s healthcare system. Strengthening the system requires a multifaceted approach, beginning with the training and deployment of specialized mental health professionals across the country, particularly in underserved areas. Existing professionals will need to receive continuous training, supervision, and evaluation to enhance their effectiveness.
– Olivia Barker
Photo: Flickr
Baltic Aid to Ukraine: An example for the international community
Aid Compared to GDP
The Baltic states are three out of the five top contributors of aid to Ukraine relative to GDP. Since the beginning of the conflict, Latvia provided 0.9%, Estonia 0.8% and Lithuania 0.4% of bilateral aid as a percentage of GDP. This proves to be starkly different to the level of government aid by other Western countries; the U.S. and U.K. allocated €26.9 billion and €3.8 billion in government support, which amounted to only 0.2% of their GDPs.
Baltic aid to Ukraine is not limited to the allocation of aid to the country but also the number of refugees welcomed into the Baltic states in 2022. Estonia currently hosts 40,000 Ukrainian refugees which amounts to 3% of its population. Latvia similarly has 53,000 refugees which forms 2.7% of its population. 80,000 Ukrainians entered Lithuania, with 50,000 temporary visas issued for temporary protection. The intake of refugees in these countries is considerably larger than other large European countries like the U.K., which currently hosts 246,960 Ukrainian refugees.
Preservation of Ukrainian Culture in the Baltics
The displacement of 6.3 million Ukrainian citizens and the destruction of cultural sites risks the erasure of Ukrainian culture. However, programs within the Baltic states seek to preserve Ukrainian culture. One example is The Freedom School in Estonia which teaches Ukrainian culture and language education for 560 displaced Ukrainians. The school even received praise from the First Lady of Ukraine who told students there that the opportunity to study in two languages will give them the “freedom of knowledge.”
The World Bank, United Nations and European Commission report estimates the cost of rebuilding Ukraine to be around $486 billion. Lithuania has taken steps to ensure that it can reduce the long-term war damages to the country through the implementation of its Future of Ukraine initiative. So far the scheme rebuilt the Borodyanka school in Ukraine and re-modeled the electricity distribution network at Mykolaiv.
The Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Jovita Neliupšienė explained the aim of the initiative: “Our aim is resolute—to demonstrate unwavering support for Ukraine’s reconstruction in the face of Russian aggression.”
Looking Forward
Whilst other E.U. countries such as Germany look to halve its aid to Ukraine in 2025 to €55 billion, ongoing Baltic aid to Ukraine sends signals to the international community of the ongoing need for support in Ukraine.
– Sofia Brooke
Photo: Flickr
Saving Lives: Tackling Maternal Mortality in sub-Saharan Africa
Life for African Mothers (LFAM), a U.K.-based charity founded 19 years ago, is at the forefront of tackling this crisis. LFAM operates in some of the world’s most impoverished regions, dedicating its resources to saving mothers’ lives by providing vital medications and training health care workers to improve maternal health outcomes. Entirely volunteer-driven, LFAM’s efforts have become a beacon of hope for thousands of women across sub-Saharan Africa.
The Urgency of Maternal Mortality in sub-Saharan Africa
More than 80% of maternal deaths are preventable, particularly those from postpartum hemorrhage (PPH). The number, 300,000, has remained stubbornly high for more than a decade. Despite the affordability of medication, logistical costs and the high number of mothers in need pose significant challenges. Many clinics in rural and underserved regions lack consistent access to misoprostol, significantly increasing the risk of fatal complications during childbirth. This is where LFAM’s intervention becomes crucial.
The LFAM Project: Two-Pronged Approach
The primary goal of LFAM is to reduce maternal mortality in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in countries like Liberia and Sierra Leone. LFAM’s project is built on two key pillars:
LFAM’s project implementation involves a comprehensive and continuous process of reviewing the existing needs of each clinic, supplying misoprostol in bulk and delivering these supplies to hundreds of clinics across the region. Regular monitoring of maternal health outcomes ensures that the program can be adjusted to maximize its impact and expand where necessary. This systematic approach helps LFAM address both the immediate and long-term needs of maternal health facilities across the region.
Saving Lives
LFAM has shipped more than 5 million tablets of misoprostol to sub-Saharan Africa, potentially saving around one million lives. The organization has also educated 1,000 midwives, highlighting its dedication to tackling maternal mortality in sub-Saharan Africa. The primary beneficiaries of LFAM’s work are women in rural and underserved areas of sub-Saharan Africa, where access to emergency maternal care is limited or nonexistent.
These women, especially those at risk of life-threatening complications, are often miles from the nearest health care facility. LFAM aims to reach approximately 10,000 mothers annually by working with local clinics to ensure that even the most remote areas receive the necessary supplies and support. This strategy addresses the geographic and socioeconomic disparities that make maternal health care inaccessible for so many women in the region.
Saving mothers’ lives enriches communities and encourages prosperity in the most impoverished countries. Poverty and maternal death rates are inextricably linked. When a mother survives childbirth, she can care for her newborn and contribute to the social and economic fabric of her community. LFAM’s work is helping ensure that more women survive to fulfill this role.
Lasting Solutions
LFAM’s model is designed with sustainability in mind. By investing in training local health care professionals and partnering with governments, the organization is helping to create a system that can continue to function even after LFAM’s direct involvement ends. This long-term approach ensures that the improvements in maternal health care are not temporary but instead form the foundation for a healthier future.
LFAM’s mission is clear: to prevent unnecessary maternal deaths in sub-Saharan Africa. However, this work is only possible with the continued support of donors and partners. Every pound invested in LFAM’s projects helps save lives, empower communities and improve health care systems in some of the world’s most underserved regions. With donor support, LFAM continues to contribute to a brighter and healthier future for thousands of mothers and their families, forging a path toward a world where no mother dies from preventable causes during childbirth.
– Staff Reports
Photo: Flickr
How Award-Winning Authors Are Showing Support for Palestine
With no sign of an end in sight and access to aid severely restricted, global support for Palestinians is crucial for encouraging leaders of the most powerful nations to act in every way they can to see this reality of horror come to an end. One thousand acclaimed publishing professionals and authors, including the author of “Normal People,” Sally Rooney, have demonstrated their stance of support for Palestine by signing a letter that pledges to boycott Israeli cultural institutions.
The Situation in Gaza
Palestinian rights are increasingly violated day by day as the conflict continues to escalate. Since the conflict began on 7 October 2023, more than 40,000 lives have been lost and a minimum of 97,000 civilians have been injured in Gaza. Intern physician Dr. Amira Qadeeh spoke with The New Humanitarian about the devastating impact of the conflict on those living through this nightmare.
Qadeeh expresses: “Before, I was in the safety and comfort of my home, leading a quiet life … and doing all the things that are normal for any human being. Now we need a miracle to get clean drinking water, enough healthy food, a blanket that warms us in the bitter cold and above all, safe shelter.” Urgent continued support for Palestine is crucial for the restoration of livelihood; however, with many companies, countries and institutions still profiting off this crisis, we are witnessing complicity that actively enables the bloodshed to persist.
Support for Palestine From Book Industry Figures
Rooney, Arundhati Roy and Rachel Kushner are just a few names among more than 1,000 signatories of the pledge to boycott Israeli cultural institutions that “are complicit or have remained silent observers of the overwhelming oppression of Palestinians.” Organized by the Palestine Festival of Literature, the boycott recognizes the existence of institutions profiting from others’ suffering. All those in favor of this campaign express that they will refuse to work with any Israeli publishers, festivals, literary agencies and publications that are complicit in the violation of Palestinian rights.
This also includes those operating “discriminatory policies and practices” or “whitewashing and justifying Israel’s occupation, apartheid or genocide.” Among others, Rooney’s support for Palestine has been unwavering, demonstrated through her history of openly advocating for Palestinian rights and refusing to “sell the Hebrew translation rights of her third novel, “Beautiful World, Where Are You,” to an Israeli publisher in 2021.
The impact of well-known and loved book industry figures such as Rooney using their influence to speak out about the situation in Gaza, as well as calling for the boycott of institutions, is invaluable for generating as much public support for Palestinian rights as possible. Moreover, this high-profile boycott has the power to influence others and highlight companies and institutions that capitalize on the conflict in Gaza.
– Imogen Prince
Photo: Flickr
Boateng’s Plastic Bricks Offer Affordable Housing for Ghana
This invention also helped save his company, as the Ghanaian government was considering a ban on single-use plastics due to health and safety hazards associated with plastic pollution. Boateng told “Africa Calling” podcast correspondent Zubaida Mabuno Ismail, “I had to find a way of dealing with the plastic in a more sustainable way.”
Waste Management in Ghana
A major factor driving plastic repurposing efforts in Ghana is the country’s significant plastic pollution problem. The National Library of Medicine reports a link between public health issues in Ghana and inconsistent waste management practices, a concern shared by many Ghanaians. Indeed, Gbeddy Phanuel’s online survey on household waste management practices in Accra found that 83% of respondents consider quality service to be the top priority. Many feel that current waste management practices are unpredictable and lack professionalism.
As a developing country, Ghana has yet to establish fully functional waste management sites, making it challenging for residents to dispose of waste properly. In fact, 62% of Ghana’s waste reaches landfills. Furthermore, the remaining 38% is disposed of through unregulated methods, including 14.5% in waterways and 16.5% in gutters. This poses health risks for Ghanaians as inadequate waste management solutions compromise water sources.
Fortunately, Gbeddy’s survey of more than 200 Ghanaians revealed that 81% are willing to participate in waste management initiatives. Plastic waste ranks third highest in Africa and due to its long lifespan, finding sustainable ways to reduce its usage is crucial for the health and safety of people in Ghana.
Beautiful Plastic Homes for a Low Price
In an interview with Voice of America, Boateng offers an inside look at the plastic brick manufacturing process and its final results. He showcases his home, which is built entirely from Nelplast bricks made of recycled plastic. Constructing a one-bedroom apartment with these bricks costs around $11,000, making it an affordable housing option for low-income families in Ghana.
Each home uses about 13,400 kilograms (approximately 29,542 pounds) of plastic. Boateng and his company developed these bricks by heating and compressing a blend of plastic and sand, creating durable materials that leverage plastic’s resilience against decay—a promising solution to Ghana’s housing shortage.
Boateng introduces an innovative solution for both the housing shortage and plastic waste problem, providing a hopeful path forward for affordable housing in Ghana.
– Madeline Star Heintz
Photo: Flickr
Updates on SDG 15 in Paraguay: The Work of REDD+
Between 2011 and 2021, Paraguay’s forest coverage fell from 48.2% to 39.8%, with 88% of the deforestation happening in the Paraguayan Chaco, largely due to cattle ranching and coal mining. Domestic laws allow most of these clearances, as they require preserving only 25% of forested land in ranching or mining areas. As part of ongoing efforts and updates on SDG 15 in Paraguay, the country signed the Glasgow Leaders’ Declaration on Forests and Land Use in 2021, pledging to halt and reverse deforestation and forest degradation, according to the World Bank. This commitment aligns with SDG 15 (“Life on Land”), which focuses on the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of ecosystems, like forests.
However, critics argue that this pledge has been vague and ineffective. Rather than achieving its goal of forest preservation, the declaration has resulted in deforestation, permitting invasive eucalyptus plantations to replace biodiverse ecosystems and encroach upon Indigenous lands, the World Bank reports.
According to the World Bank, this issue particularly affects Paraguay’s Indigenous communities, who suffer disproportionately from environmental changes. Approximately 66% of Indigenous people live in poverty, with 34.4% living in extreme poverty—three times the national average. Additionally, 33.5% of Indigenous people are illiterate, less than 1% have access to the Internet and less than 4% benefit from state social protection programs. These conditions heighten the vulnerability of groups like the Qom in the Chaco forest, whose livelihoods are further endangered by harmful eucalyptus plantations introduced under the pretext of conservation, the World Bank reports. This is because Indigenous communities often depend on natural resources for their daily needs, such as gathering and agriculture, as well as for maintaining cultural practices. Here is some information about updates on SDG 15 in Paraguay.
Understanding REDD+
In 2007, the forestry sector accounted for about 17% of global greenhouse gas emissions, prompting the creation of REDD+, an international mechanism designed to reduce deforestation while maintaining forests as carbon sinks. Initially known as REDD, U.N. climate negotiations later expanded it and incorporated it into the Paris Agreement under Article 5. REDD+ now includes conservation, sustainable forest management, and enhancing forest carbon stocks in developing countries. The initiative incentivizes nations to preserve forests by offering financial rewards, making standing forests more valuable than cleared ones.
COP introduced safeguards for REDD+ projects to prevent harm, such as violations of Indigenous rights. These safeguards ensure Indigenous communities and other relevant groups fully participate in decision-making. For nations to receive financial rewards, they must submit reports proving their compliance with these safeguards.
Additionally, the COP urged capable countries to “support capacity-building, provide technical assistance” and facilitate technology transfer to strengthen the effectiveness of these initiatives.
The Corazón Verde del Chaco Project: A Case Study
In 2023, Paraguay’s largest REDD+ initiative, the Corazón Verde del Chaco Project, gained validation for its Climate, Community and Biodiversity (CCB) Standards from the nonprofit organization Verra. This validation demonstrates that the project reduces carbon emissions while also promoting biodiversity conservation and benefiting local communities, including Indigenous peoples.
By earning this validation, the project adds credibility and transparency, making it more attractive to investors and helping secure results-based payments. Covering approximately 300,000 hectares of Indigenous community lands shared by the Maria Auxiliadora community, interviews with community leaders confirmed no evidence that the REDD+ project negatively impacted Indigenous communities.
The Role of REDD+ in Achieving SDGs
REDD+ plays a critical role in Paraguay’s efforts to meet the U.N.’s SDGs, particularly SDG 15 on forest conservation and SDG 10 on reducing inequalities. In the latest updates on SDG 15 in Paraguay, REDD+ aligns with SDG 15 by promoting forest conservation and sustainable land use, offering a more equitable development approach compared to land clearing for cattle ranching and mining. Achieving SDG 15 encourages practices that protect natural resources, which many of Paraguay’s poorest communities, especially Indigenous peoples, rely on for their livelihoods. In addition, REDD+ projects reduce inequalities (SDG 10) by safeguarding the rights of marginalized groups and ensuring they fully participate in decision-making processes, per the safeguards introduced at COP 16.
Future Prospects
Looking forward, ongoing updates on SDG 15 in Paraguay include projects like the Corazón Verde del Chaco initiative, which, with its Verra certification, aims to reduce net greenhouse gas emissions by an estimated 5.6 million tons of CO2 over its initial 10-year period, according to Quadriz. Beyond reducing emissions, this project will likely strengthen the capacity of local communities in the Paraguayan Chaco, potentially by employing Indigenous technicians to monitor forests, as seen in previous REDD+ initiatives in Paraguay.
The initiative also includes gender-focused projects, such as creating childcare spaces, which enable Indigenous women to participate fully in decision-making and workshops. The project’s scale presents an opportunity to expand these benefits, alleviating stress on Indigenous women across Paraguay. By empowering communities and addressing issues like invasive eucalyptus plantations, this initiative seeks to promote better forest management nationwide while preventing the marginalization of Indigenous groups.
– William Pickering
Photo: Flickr
Queentrepreneur Women’s Foundation: Empowering Women
Furthermore, more than 37 million girls and women in Nigeria are affected by period poverty. Addressing these challenges could significantly reduce poverty rates among women, leading to an increase in economic growth. Estimates show that closing the gender gap in labor force participation could boost sub-Saharan Africa’s gross domestic product (GDP) by up to 10%. Improved literacy and economic inclusion for women would also ensure better education, health and protection outcomes for children, breaking the cycle of poverty for future generations.
The Queentrepreneur Women’s Foundation
The Queentrepreneur Women’s Foundation (QWF), a nonprofit organization, is addressing these issues through skill acquisition programs, AI-powered business tools, health education, legal aid partnerships and mentorship. By empowering women with economic, educational and legal resources, QWF aims to transform these challenges into progress and resilience, offering hope and the tools for self-reliance. In return, the women advocate for and look out for children, ensuring they receive the necessary care and protection.
The foundation’s vision is clear and ambitious: to create a sustainable ecosystem where women uplift each other, educate and contribute to eliminating poverty. This vision is brought to life through a series of innovative programs and partnerships that address the multifaceted challenges faced by women and children in Nigeria.
Impacts
The Queentrepreneur Women’s Foundation doesn’t just talk about change; it creates it, one life at a time. Its programs align closely with several of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), demonstrating its commitment to global sustainable development.
A Sustainable Model of Empowerment
The organization is distinguished by its sustainable model. Women who benefit from the foundation’s programs are encouraged to give back through advocacy and fundraising, creating a cycle of empowerment that continues to grow and strengthen the community. Indeed, QWF’s core values of empowerment through education, community support and advocacy, innovative solutions and sustainability through giving back are evident in every aspect of its work.
Looking Forward
In a world where the path to gender equality and women’s empowerment can often seem daunting, QWF offers hope and a practical roadmap for change. It reminds us that when we empower women and children, we truly do grow nations and in doing so, we make significant strides toward achieving the global goals for sustainable development.
As QWF continues to grow and expand its reach, it stands as a shining example of what can be achieved when women come together to support and uplift each other and their communities. Furthermore, by addressing immediate needs while also focusing on long-term empowerment and education, the foundation is not just changing individual lives – it’s helping to build a stronger, more equitable future for all.
– Staff Reports
Photo: QWF