RisøNews june 2007 : Energy, climate and sustainable development in the poorest parts of the world

UNEP Risø Centre (URC) works to promote a more modern and efficient energy supply in the developing countries. An efficient energy supply contributes to creating sustainable local development – and to reducing global warming. Thanks to more than 20 years of experience and an international team of almost 30 employees, the URC holds a key position in relation to international institutions working for the UN objectives of sustainable development and climate improvements.

New partnerships encourage sustainable development

In two Indian states, life for approx. 100,000 poor people has been made a bit easier. Via the Indian Solar Loan Programme, which is supported by UNEP Risø Centre, they have been given access to loans which can finance the purchase of solar cell systems. This means access to a reliable and renewable form of energy, with a positive impact on social and economic development.

IPCC assesses costs of CO2 reductions

It will cost about 1% of the Gross Global Product in 2050 to keep the expected temperature increases in the period up until 2100 below 3 degrees. The good news is that new technology often both reduces CO2 emissions and pays.

GNESD is a knowledge network that works to achieve the UN’s Millennium Development Goals

The Global Network on Energy for Sustainable Development (GNESD) is a knowledge network of Centres of Excellence, i.e. research institutions and knowledge centres renowned for their work on energy, the environment and sustainable development. The network, which includes UNEP Risø Centre, has 20 members from industrialised and developing countries all over the world.

Web tools from UNEP Risø Centre help developing countries gain access to Carbon Finance

UNEP Risø Centre (URC) recently launched two new web tools, CDM Pipeline and CDM Bazaar. The tools are designed to help the developing countries in their project planning for sustainable energy development and in financing such projects.

Energy to create development

Access to energy in African villages can alleviate poverty, improve health and create new jobs. But energy in itself is not enough. Together with six countries, UNEP Risø Centre has developed an evaluation method which can document whether energy benefits the people.

Urban public transport in Latin America: Many birds with one stone

The number of cars is exploding in Latin America’s polluted cities. Improved public transport can reduce travel time and benefit public health and the environment. UNEP Risø Centre paves the way.

Sustainable energy for isolated communities in the Arctic

Isolated communities in the Nordic and Arctic regions may pioneer the introduction of sustainable energy systems based on renewable resources. A new Nordic network will strengthen collaboration and the exchange of knowledge between local communities, scientists and industry.

DTU advises national and international authorities

Activities at all departments at the Technical University of Denmark naturally involve advising the authorities in Denmark, the EU and internationally. The scope of these activities is set to increase in the coming years.

Energy experts agree: Action needed NOW if climate change is to be reduced

Risø has concluded a three-day international energy conference attended by 140 energy experts from around the world. The conclusion was clear: The world is facing a gigantic energy challenge, but we can handle it if action is taken NOW.

More sustainable energy in Egypt

Last autumn, Risø completed eight years of work mapping out Egypt’s wind climate and wind resources. The result was a 260-page Wind Atlas for Egypt. Thanks to this, Egypt will be able to increase the share of renewable energy.