Latest news with #UNSDGs
News24
2 days ago
- Business
- News24
Armageddon or beacon of hope: What would South Africa look like in 2100?
Khensani Nobanda, Nedbank's Group Executive for Marketing and Corporate Affairs There is no doubt that South Africa faces serious environmental and climate risks, but often the severity or urgency of the problem doesn't quite hit home. The poorest communities, many of whom are already faced with dire circumstances such as no access to clean water, will suffer the brunt of inaction. And so, to bring home just how pressing the situation is, Nedbank asked an artificial intelligence (AI) platform to imagine what South Africa would look like in 2100 if we do not meet the United Nations' (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The outcome is, frankly, terrifying. Severe water shortages, economic instability, a deeply unbalanced ecosystem, and ruin. However, there is a method to the madness of invoking such a bleak future. The activity, part of Nedbank's Purpose Storytelling initiative, is an explicit call to action. We haven't yet missed the UN SDGs. We may not be tracking exceedingly well, but if we take urgent, collective action and meet these goals, the future imagined is vastly different: A vibrant country with water and food security, abundant renewable energy, and economic inclusion that fosters educational excellence and innovation. We are at the point in history where action, or inaction, puts us on a path to 1 of these 2 future states. Sustainability has been part of Nedbank's DNA for decades. It is fundamental to what we do, how we innovate, how we envisage financing, and how we partner because of 1 simple truth: A sustainable bank needs a sustainable Africa, and a sustainable economy needs a sustainable country. Our futures are intricately intertwined with the myriad of ecological systems that breathe life into our existence. At this juncture, it is important to reframe the UN SDGs not just as targets, but as a survival, and ultimately, a prosperity framework. While the future may well see water become akin to currency, in many ways it already is in South Africa. Our water infrastructure is crippling, and a history of skewed development means many communities are already experiencing systemic collapse. At the bank, we understand that the challenge ahead is no small task. As such, we are passionate that systemic transformation requires local innovation. This is simply not possible without genuine, purpose-driven partnerships that enable community-driven solutions, which are far more effective than top-down approaches. Experience has shown that a deep understanding of local context and tapping into local expertise and knowledge are critical to sustainable innovation. We passionately believe that partnerships between financial institutions, communities, and environmental organisations are essential in the giant wheel of achieving the UN SDGs and realising a bright, hopeful future. This all sounds great. But it is important that commitment to sustainability extends beyond rhetoric. At Nedbank, we hold ourselves accountable to action with significant investments in transformative initiatives that address critical environmental and social challenges. There are 2 key projects – Kusini Water and the uMzimvubu Catchment Partnership (UCP) – that are a direct result of a deliberate decision to take a hands-on approach to building the future we want to see. Water scarcity threatens not only the lives of millions of people currently, but also presents a nightmarish future as envisioned by AI's 2100 model. This is precisely why Nedbank has supported Kusini Water, which is revolutionising water access through cutting-edge technology and community-driven solutions. Founded by Murendeni Mafumo, Kusini Water provides sustainable, safe water to underserved communities. Through support from the bank, the organisation has been able to expand its reach, deploying solar-powered filtration systems that harness nanotechnology to purify water efficiently and sustainably. And one of the most exciting spinoffs of clean, running water is the economic activity that follows. The project has already produced 1 508 kilolitres of water, supported over 80 enterprises, and upskilled 200 individuals, creating employment opportunities. This is precisely how localised interventions build long-term sustainability. Securing water access is critical, but protecting natural water sources is equally important. Another initiative is the UCP, which is in collaboration with WWF and local stakeholders. The UCP is working to restore one of South Africa's most vital river systems. The degradation of water catchment areas threatens both biodiversity and community livelihoods. By restoring ecosystems and promoting sustainable land management, we can safeguard water security for local communities and downstream economies. With Nedbank's investment in this initiative, degraded landscapes in the Eastern Cape are being restored, improving water quality, enhancing biodiversity, and securing livelihoods for local communities. The programme has successfully protected 45 natural springs, supplying clean and reliable water to over 42 000 people, while integrating sustainable farming and rangeland management practices to create economic opportunities. As important as these initiatives are, they are but a drop in the ocean. This is a clarion call to other corporates, stakeholders, and individuals to join in the efforts of achieving the UN SDGs. The task at hand may seem gargantuan. It certainly won't be easy or quick, but there is no way around it. We have to act now. We can start imperfectly, but it is important that everyone who hasn't yet started join us now. Nedbank's YouthX Top 10 winner, Ngangelizwe Mathunjwa, founder of Aero Greens, an agritech startup using sustainable and soil-less vertical farming to reduce water use, encouraged delegates at the launch to find people who share the same vision. His call is for us to focus on solving real problems for real people. As a bank, we appreciate the importance of developing financial literacy in all the communities we serve, and to continue partnering with purpose-driven organisations to create collaborative and innovative funding models that can drive real change. Sustainability is not a distant goal but an urgent, collaborative redesign of how we interact with our environment and each other. We have not missed the goals – but we must act now to ensure that the South Africa of 2100 is a place we want our children and grandchildren to live in.
Free Malaysia Today
6 days ago
- Politics
- Free Malaysia Today
CAP wants govt to introduce a Food Waste Act
CAP education officer NV Subbarow said Malaysia throws away about 17,000 tonnes of food every day, and more than 3,000 tonnes of it are still edible. (Envato Elements pic) KUALA LUMPUR : The Consumers Association of Penang (CAP) has urged the government to introduce a comprehensive Food Waste Act to tackle the alarming rate of food wastage in Malaysia. CAP education officer NV Subbarow said such a law would enable Malaysia to address environmental, social and economic challenges related to food waste, while supporting its commitment to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 'Malaysia throws away about 17,000 tonnes of food every day, and more than 3,000 tonnes of it are still edible. That's why we need a dedicated law to reduce this wastage and encourage sustainable habits,' he said during an interview on Bernama TV. Subbarow said most Malaysians do not realise the scale of the issue, adding: 'We live in a country blessed with delicious food, but unfortunately, we often discard edible items without thinking, and this contributes significantly to national food waste. 'The only way to change this societal habit is through an effective law that encourages responsible consumption and educates the public,' he said. He pointed out that France passed a pioneering law in 2016 which bans supermarkets from throwing away unsold edible food, requiring them instead to donate it to charities. 'Malaysia can learn from such examples,' he added. Subbarow also welcomed Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's recent directive for government departments to stop using imported goods, particularly food, at official events, saying it was a timely move that complements efforts to reduce waste and support local producers. 'We fully support the prime minister's call. Prioritising local produce empowers farmers and reduces the environmental cost of long-haul food transport,' he said. To help ease the burden of rising vegetable prices, he encouraged Malaysians to grow their own food, noting that many fruiting plants, leafy greens and herbs can be cultivated even in limited spaces like balconies or small backyards. He also cited a projection by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations that global food demand may rise by 70% by 2050, driven by increasing consumer incomes in Asia, Eastern Europe, and Latin America. 'This further highlights the urgency for Malaysia to adopt a food waste law and promote self-sufficiency through home gardening,' he said.
Associated Press
18-06-2025
- Science
- Associated Press
Queen's ranks 6th globally and 1st in Canada in the 2025 Times Higher Education Impact Rankings
KINGSTON, ON, June 17, 2025 /CNW/ - Queen's University has once again earned a place among the top universities in the world for its contributions to advancing the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In the 2025 Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings, Queen's ranks 6th globally out of more than 2,500 institutions from 130 countries, and is the top-ranked Canadian university. This marks the fifth straight year that Queen's has placed in the global top 10 – a milestone unmatched by any other Canadian institution since the rankings began in 2019. 'Progress toward the UN's Sustainable Development Goals depends on collaboration across every part of the university. This recognition reflects the dedication of faculty, staff, students, and partners who are finding practical and creative ways to contribute. Their work continues to expand what is possible,' says Queen's Principal and Vice-Chancellor Patrick Deane. Now in its seventh year, the THE Impact Rankings evaluate how universities are performing against the UN's 17 SDGs, which represent a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure peace and prosperity for all. Sustained leadership across the SDGs The university earned global top 10 placements in five categories, highlighting research, teaching and outreach strengths in areas such as food security, urban development, water sustainability, biodiversity, and global justice: Collaborative impact The Impact Rankings assess universities using a blend of qualitative and quantitative metrics, including research outputs, teaching practices, partnerships, and community-based initiatives. Queen's leadership in the rankings is supported by long-standing research priorities in sustainability, equity, health, and technological innovation – including work in green supercomputing, materials science, and clean energy. Ongoing commitment 'Participating in the Impact Rankings has helped Queen's articulate and expand the ways we contribute to the global common good,' says Principal Deane. 'This rankings recognition is not just about where we place, but also about highlighting and expanding the work being done across our university community to support people and the planet, and solve some of our most pressing challenges.' Read the full article on the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings and Queen's performance. About Queen's University Founded in 1841, Queen's University in Kingston, Ontario, Canada is a leading research-intensive institution with more than 31,000 students and 5,000 faculty and staff. Queen's is known for its research in cancer, geoengineering, AI, data analytics, mental health, and physics ( 2015 Nobel Prize ). Queen's fosters a diverse and inclusive community and is a destination for individuals who want to build a better future for people and the planet. SOURCE Queen's University
Yahoo
17-06-2025
- Science
- Yahoo
Queen's ranks 6th globally and 1st in Canada in the 2025 Times Higher Education Impact Rankings
KINGSTON, ON, June 17, 2025 /CNW/ - Queen's University has once again earned a place among the top universities in the world for its contributions to advancing the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In the 2025 Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings, Queen's ranks 6th globally out of more than 2,500 institutions from 130 countries, and is the top-ranked Canadian university. This marks the fifth straight year that Queen's has placed in the global top 10 – a milestone unmatched by any other Canadian institution since the rankings began in 2019. "Progress toward the UN's Sustainable Development Goals depends on collaboration across every part of the university. This recognition reflects the dedication of faculty, staff, students, and partners who are finding practical and creative ways to contribute. Their work continues to expand what is possible," says Queen's Principal and Vice-Chancellor Patrick Deane. Now in its seventh year, the THE Impact Rankings evaluate how universities are performing against the UN's 17 SDGs, which represent a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure peace and prosperity for all. Sustained leadership across the SDGsThe university earned global top 10 placements in five categories, highlighting research, teaching and outreach strengths in areas such as food security, urban development, water sustainability, biodiversity, and global justice: 1st in the world for SDG 2: Zero Hunger 2nd in the world for SDG 14: Life Below Water 2nd in the world for SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions 4th in the world for SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities 6th in the world for SDG 15: Life on Land Collaborative impactThe Impact Rankings assess universities using a blend of qualitative and quantitative metrics, including research outputs, teaching practices, partnerships, and community-based initiatives. Queen's leadership in the rankings is supported by long-standing research priorities in sustainability, equity, health, and technological innovation – including work in green supercomputing, materials science, and clean energy. Ongoing commitment"Participating in the Impact Rankings has helped Queen's articulate and expand the ways we contribute to the global common good," says Principal Deane. "This rankings recognition is not just about where we place, but also about highlighting and expanding the work being done across our university community to support people and the planet, and solve some of our most pressing challenges." Read the full article on the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings and Queen's performance. About Queen's UniversityFounded in 1841, Queen's University in Kingston, Ontario, Canada is a leading research-intensive institution with more than 31,000 students and 5,000 faculty and staff. Queen's is known for its research in cancer, geoengineering, AI, data analytics, mental health, and physics (2015 Nobel Prize). Queen's fosters a diverse and inclusive community and is a destination for individuals who want to build a better future for people and the planet. SOURCE Queen's University View original content to download multimedia:
Yahoo
09-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Nord Anglia Education Awards Over $155,000 in 2025 'Social Impact Grants' to Student-Led Global Projects Advancing UN SDGs
Student-led projects driving innovation in AI, healthcare, sustainability, and inclusive education across Nord Anglia's global schools LONDON, June 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Leading international schools organisation Nord Anglia Education has announced the fifth round of its Social Impact Grants, awarding over US$155,000 to 17 student-led projects across its 80+ schools worldwide. These initiatives directly support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) and address pressing local and global challenges. Since launching in 2021, the programme has invested more than US$735,000 in student innovation, enabling young changemakers to design and implement impactful solutions in their communities. "Young people are immensely capable of creating change, and these grants empower Nord Anglia students to go beyond the classroom and have a real impact on their local communities. There are valuable lessons being taught here too, with our students learning new skills from organisation to communication, collaboration, empathy, and more," said Dr Leslie Williams, Group Head of Social Impact and EDIB at Nord Anglia Education. What are Nord Anglia's Social Impact Grants?Nord Anglia's Social Impact Grants programme supports student-led initiatives that tackle real-world issues, including: Expanding healthcare access for underserved communities. Addressing climate change through sustainability initiatives. Creating inclusive learning opportunities for diverse learners. Promoting equity and inclusion across local communities. Improving digital literacy through the use of AI and robotics. Each project is reviewed by the Nord Anglia Student Advisory Board and a Grants Committee chaired by Lord Jim Knight, ensuring student voice and leadership are central to the process. 2025 Grant Highlights: Student Innovation in ActionHere are some standout projects from this year's recipients: Oakridge Bengaluru – SuvriddhiOSA Generative AI-powered device that teaches underserved children in Bengaluru programming and project management skills. Avenues São Paulo – RobotizandoA robotics and coding programme for low-income students in São Paulo, promoting digital equity and 21st-century STEM skills. Eton School Mexico City – Compartiendo SonrisasA fundraising and awareness campaign supporting children with cancer. Oakridge Bachupally – AequitasA project addressing educational and health disparities in Hyderabad, with a strong focus on EDIB and sanitation equity. British Vietnamese International School Hanoi – Nhan Chinh ProjectProviding learning materials and assistive technology for hearing impaired students in Vietnam. Léman Chengdu – Youth for UnitySupporting cognitively and physically impaired children with access to developmental tools and inclusive education. British International School of Houston – BISH YESSHosting a youth-led environmental sustainability summit for students across the region. British International School of Kuala Lumpur – Embrace, Educate & EmpowerCreating inclusive learning environments for neurodivergent students in Kuala Lumpur through education and advocacy. The Village School – Step-In EducationA peer-tutoring platform connecting student volunteers with refugee learners to teach English and support integration. Empowering Young Changemakers: Voices from the Programme"Nord Anglia's grants have helped me bring to life a project I've been thinking about for a long time," said Kiana, a grant recipient from BIS Kuala Lumpur. "I want everybody to have an equal opportunity at a successful education, and this funding will go a long way towards making sure we can make a valuable impact." "We're ready to turn momentum into meaningful change, for students, by students, and enabled by Nord Anglia," said Rayhan from Oakridge Bachupally. "By offering students funding, they can make an even greater impact in their local communities," said Lord Jim Knight, Chair of Nord Anglia's Social Impact Grants Committee and member of its Education Advisory Board. "What's even more inspiring is how they're taking ownership of the process, from proposals to implementation and evaluation. I believe this is one of the most powerful educational experiences we can offer students." Read more here about Nord Anglia's Social Impact Grants and how our students are making a difference. About Nord Anglia EducationNord Anglia Education is a global leader in premium international education, with over 90,000 students across 34 countries. Our schools combine academic excellence, personalised learning, and real-world impact to prepare students for success in life. Learn more or apply: Media ContactDavid BatesSenior Communications Manager+44 7787 Logo - View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Nord Anglia Education Fehler beim Abrufen der Daten Melden Sie sich an, um Ihr Portfolio aufzurufen. Fehler beim Abrufen der Daten Fehler beim Abrufen der Daten Fehler beim Abrufen der Daten Fehler beim Abrufen der Daten
