Climate Action

Lima Airport Partners Leads the Way in Sustainable Aviation Recognized at ACI-LAC Annual Assembly 2023

Lima Airport Partners Leads the Way in Sustainable Aviation: Recognized at ACI-LAC Annual Assembly 2023

The recent ACI-LAC Annual Assembly, Conference & Exhibition 2023 held in Miami showcased the dedication of Latin American and Caribbean airports towards pioneering projects in the aviation industry. The spotlight was on two critical areas – decarbonization and enhancing the passenger experience. Among the standouts was Lima Airport Partners (LAP), whose innovative project, “Sustainable Management of Waste and Materials in the New Jorge Chávez Expansion Project,” earned them the prestigious Green Airport Recognition 2023. Green Airport Recognition 2023 The Green Airport Recognition program is designed to spotlight and promote environmentally sustainable initiatives by airports in the Latin American and Caribbean region. Covering a range of aspects like waste management, energy efficiency, carbon emissions management, and climate change adaptation, this year’s edition was backed by TAV Technologies, a key technology provider in the airport market. Lima Airport Partners was among the fourteen distinguished airport operators recognized for their commitment to sustainable practices. LAP’s winning project, focusing on the sustainable management of waste and materials in the expansion of the Jorge Chávez Airport in Lima, Peru, was a standout example of their dedication to eco-friendly airport development. A Winning Project The “Sustainable Management of Waste and Materials in the New Jorge Chávez Expansion Project” is a testament to Lima Airport Partners’ commitment to setting new standards in airport sustainability. As a new airport city takes shape, LAP is determined to build a future that adheres to the highest national and international socio-environmental standards. This project not only reflects LAP’s dedication to environmental stewardship but also marks a pivotal step towards a sustainable and resilient future. ESG Award 2023 and ACI-LAC Green Airport Award 2023 In addition to the Green Airport Recognition, Lima Airport Partners was also honored with the ESG Award 2023, showcasing their commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles. These accolades serve as powerful motivators for LAP, reinforcing their dedication to the development of the new Jorge Chávez Airport with the highest standards and a positive impact on both people and the environment. WorldXChange – A Beacon of Sustainable Innovation Within the Jorge Chávez Airport, LAP’s commitment to green initiatives extends beyond the airport expansion project. A notable example is WorldXChange, a currency exchange office that holds both Carbon Neutral and Forest Friends certifications. Through actively managing and compensating its greenhouse gas emissions, WorldXChange goes a step further by supporting ecosystem restoration in Peru, showcasing LAP’s dedication to not only carbon neutrality, but also to contributing to the restoration of local fauna and flora. Conclusion Lima Airport Partners’ success at the ACI-LAC Annual Assembly 2023 exemplifies the pivotal role airports play in driving sustainable practices within the aviation industry. LAP’s dedication to eco-friendly initiatives, as demonstrated by their winning project and the recognition from industry awards, positions them as a leader in sustainable airport development. As the aviation sector continues to grapple with environmental challenges, LAP’s achievements serve as an inspiring model for other airports in the region and around the world, illustrating that a commitment to sustainability can lead to both operational excellence and positive impacts on the environment To contact us click here.

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Green Initiative National Tourism Award Prêmio Nacional Do Turismo

Green Initiative Two Brazilian Partners as Finalists in the National Tourism Award 2023

We are thrilled to announce that two of our esteemed partners have been selected as finalists for the prestigious National Tourism Award 2023: Tourism Transforming Lives (“Prêmio Nacional Do Turismo 2023: O Turismo Transformando Vidas”), held by the Brazilian Ministry of Tourism. The Green Initiative team is proud to showcase the outstanding initiatives of: We are immensely proud of our partners for their remarkable contributions to Brazilian tourism, such as the “Guia Brasileiro De Ação Climática Para Empresas e Destinos Turísticos” (Brazilian Climate Action Guide For Tourism Businesses and Destinations), developed by Green Initiative in alliance with the brazilian Ministry of Tourism and EMBRATUR (Brazilian Agency for International Tourism Promotion), promoting sustainability, and setting global benchmarks. These initiatives not only represent excellence in the field but also demonstrate a commitment to environmental responsibility and positive climate action. Congratulations to Fundação de Turismo de Mato Grosso do Sul and Estância Mimosa Ecoturismo LTDA! Your dedication to transforming tourism and the environment is truly commendable, and we look forward to witnessing your success in the upcoming awards ceremony. We encourage everyone to support and celebrate these remarkable initiatives. To contact us, please click here.

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Forest Conservation and Restoration A Crucial Ally in the Fight Against Climate Change - Green Initiative

Forest Conservation and Restoration: A Crucial Ally in the Fight Against Climate Change

The urgency of addressing climate change has never been more evident, and a recent study underscores the potential of forest conservation and restoration in mitigating the climate crisis. Published in Nature.com and based on collaboration among hundreds of leading forest ecologists, the research emphasizes the importance of allowing existing trees to age in healthy ecosystems and restoring degraded areas. The findings suggest that through these measures, an impressive 226 gigatonnes of carbon could be sequestered—equivalent to nearly 50 years of US emissions for 2022. However, the study cautions against the simplistic approach of mass monoculture tree-planting and offsets, urging a nuanced strategy that prioritizes both carbon drawdown and biodiversity. The Carbon Sequestration Potential The study highlights that humans have cleared approximately half of Earth’s forests, with ongoing destruction in critical regions like the Amazon rainforest and the Congo basin. The research estimates that outside of urban agricultural areas in regions with low human footprints, forests can draw down significant amounts of carbon. Protecting standing forests and allowing them to mature into old growth ecosystems, such as the Białowieża forest in Poland and Belarus or California’s sequoia groves, could realize 61% of this potential. The remaining 39% could be achieved by restoring fragmented forests and areas that have already been cleared. The Role of Biodiversity Emphasizing the importance of biodiversity, the researchers warn against planting vast numbers of single species, citing that such monoculture approaches would hinder forests from realizing their full carbon drawdown potential. The study advocates for urgent cuts to fossil fuel emissions and stresses the significance of biodiversity in aiding forests to achieve their maximum carbon sequestration capabilities. Challenges and Considerations The researchers acknowledge challenges such as the increasing threat of forest fires and rising temperatures due to the climate crisis, which could diminish the potential of forests to sequester carbon. Lidong Mo, a lead author of the study, notes, “Most of the world’s forests are highly degraded. In fact, many people have never been in one of the few old growth forests that remain on Earth.” To overcome these challenges and restore global biodiversity, ending deforestation becomes a top priority. Meeting Targets and Moving Forward While acknowledging the commitment made at Cop26 in 2021 by world leaders to halt and reverse deforestation by the end of this decade, the researchers stress the need for countries to stay on track. Brazil, Colombia, and Indonesia are mentioned as nations making progress, but overall, concerted global efforts are necessary. The study underscores the importance of meeting targets set by the UN climate and biodiversity agreements to unlock the full potential of forests in the fight against climate change. Conclusion In conclusion, the study offers a hopeful perspective on the role of forest conservation and restoration in the battle against climate change. It not only emphasizes the massive carbon drawdown potential but also highlights the need for a holistic approach that prioritizes biodiversity and addresses the challenges facing the world’s forests. As the global community grapples with the climate crisis, the study suggests that a combination of protecting standing forests and restoring degraded areas could reshape forest conservation from mere emissions avoidance to a powerful tool for massive carbon drawdown. Source: The Guardian

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Sustainable Urban Development A Comprehensive Approach to Climate Neutrality and Fast-Tracking Climate Action

Sustainable Urban Development: A Comprehensive Approach to Climate Neutrality and Fast-Tracking Climate Action

In the ever-growing challenge of climate change, cities worldwide are taking center stage as they navigate the delicate balance between rapid urbanization and environmental sustainability. Combinig “Climate Neutrality and Sustainable Urban Development with Climate Action” serves as a comprehensive guide, outlining a roadmap for cities to achieve climate neutrality. This framework emphasizes the integration of diverse initiatives, addressing the multifaceted aspects of climate change. Simultaneously, the imperative of fast-tracking sustainable urban development with climate action is highlighted, showcasing the need for innovative strategies to transform urban landscapes into resilient, eco-friendly hubs. Understanding Climate Neutrality At the core of sustainable urban development lies the concept of climate neutrality, where cities strive to balance their greenhouse gas emissions with equivalent removal or offset measures. Achieving climate neutrality is a crucial milestone in the global effort to combat climate change, preventing further environmental degradation and securing a sustainable future for urban areas. Key Components of a Combined Climate Neutrality and Sustainable Urban Development Framework Cities that are making it possible There are many cities worldwide proving that sustainable urban development with climate action is prossible, such as Machu Picchu, the world’s first carbon neutral certified tourist destination and Bonito, a brazilian ecotourism destination whis is leading climate action by example, also as carbon neutral certified. Another example is the city of Curitiba, in Brazil, which has just been awarded as the world’s most sustainable smart-city in the world by the World Smart City Awards 2023. Conclusion Combining the “Climate Neutrality Framework” with the imperative of “Sustainable Urban Development with Climate Action” provides a holistic guide for cities. By integrating emission reduction strategies, renewable energy, sustainable transportation, circular economy practices, green infrastructure, community engagement, and innovative policies, urban centers can accelerate their transition to sustainable, resilient hubs. Embracing these initiatives positions cities as beacons of environmental responsibility, leading the way toward a more sustainable and climate-resilient future. At Green Initiative, we empower organizations to integrate climate action at the core of their business models, helping achieve decarbonization targets and comply with international climate action standards. Contact us here. by Yves Hemelryck, from the Green Initiative Team

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Three socially responsible mining practices

Three Socially Responsible Mining Practices

With research around climate change and the damage to our planet only becoming more and more shocking, it’s imperative that individuals and industries alike make a stand for promoting sustainable practices. The mining sector is one that is crucial to many businesses, pulling valuable resources from our planet and using them to support our infrastructures, technologies and daily activities. But mining irresponsibly can have devastating consequences for the environment, as well as for the human and wildlife populations in its surrounding areas. The degradation of natural resources in remote areas can be treacherous for the indigenous communities that live there, and it’s clear that more transparency and ethical practices are needed. Here, we explore three socially responsible mining practices. Protecting local communities Mining continues to be a leading industry for global wealth and trading, with the projected global growth in the industry looking to reach around $2775.5 billion by 2027. Some of the continued growth can be attributed to the introduction of green grants and sustainable financial incentives, with $450 billion being offered in 2022. But whilst this is a step in the right direction, small-scale mines in third-world countries need to do more to protect the local communities in which they operate. As much as 80% of small-scale mining falls outside of any legal framework or regulations, which causes a fatality rate of over 90% higher than mines in industrialised countries for its workers – which often includes women and children. Socially responsible mines must prioritise the health and wellbeing of the local communities, by providing access to fresh water and managing the health risks associated with mining. Transparency Water conservation is a pressing issue in the mining industry, as extractions can require large amounts of water, which means that this vital natural resource is drawn away from the people who depend on it to survive. A mine has a responsibility to ensure protection of the surrounding environment, people and wildlife, by providing access to fresh water and creating a zero-harm environment. Transparency for all mines is essential in order to ensure these standards are met. By closing down illegal mining operations and supporting those willing to pledge green initiatives, we can help reduce global damage from this industry. From reusing mining waste to using eco-friendly equipment, there’s numerous ways to modernise mining and reduce its social and environmental impact. Sustainable development of minerals The mining sector also has a responsibility to support the sustainable and responsible development of minerals used in battery technologies, such as lithium. With electric vehicles becoming sought after modes of transportation, lithium batteries are in high demand. With new technologies ever evolving, mining practices must do all they can to ensure responsible production of the minerals they require. Lithium is a non-renewable resource, and its extraction has similar consequences as that of fossil-fuel mining, with soil degradation, biodiversity loss and CO2 emissions being some of the largest issues. Whilst some companies are looking into the use of more common elements such as iron or silicon for batteries, others are pushing for more eco-friendly ways to extract lithium. As lithium batteries are currently providing a step away from the overmining of fossil fuels, the mining of these minerals is crucial. However, improving lithium extraction methods can help reduce the social and environmental costs of these operations. Working together It’s clear that a globally united approach is key to ensuring we mine responsibly. By taking innovative steps to ensure the extraction of valuable resources is as environmentally friendly as possible, we can help reduce the devastation to our planet from the mining industry. By providing eco-initiatives and modern practices, mines can work to serve and protect the local communities who live around and work in them. This article was written in collaboration with Anne Walton, Consultant | Researcher at Digital Content & Media

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Embratur and Green Initiative collaborate for climate action

Brazilian Agency for Tourism Promotion – Embratur and Green Initiative Partner to Accelerate Climate Action

Unveiling the “GUIA BRASILEIRO DE AÇÃO CLIMÁTICA PARA EMPRESAS E DESTINOS TURÍSTICOS” In an exciting development aimed at propelling climate action within the tourism industry, the Brazilian Agency for Tourism Promotion, Embratur, has collaborated with the Green Initiative, alongside the Brazilian Ministry of Tourism and FUNDTUR – MS. Together, they are proud to unveil the “GUIA BRASILEIRO DE AÇÃO CLIMÁTICA PARA EMPRESAS E DESTINOS TURÍSTICOS” (Brazilian Guide to Climate Action for Businesses and Tourist Destinations). This comprehensive guide is set to be a valuable resource for all stakeholders in the tourism sector, both within Brazil and worldwide. Official Launch at Abav Expo 23 The “GUIA BRASILEIRO DE AÇÃO CLIMÁTICA PARA EMPRESAS E DESTINOS TURÍSTICOS” is a groundbreaking publication that encapsulates the commitment of these organizations to combat climate change and foster climate action within the tourism sector in Brazil. This guide the way businesses and destinations approach sustainability within the tourism sector. On the 28th., during the ABAV EXPO 23, Embratur will launch the Climate Action Guide for Tourism, a product of Fundtur and Green Initiative, which will be promoted by Embratur to the entire national tourism trade – Marcelo Freixo, President of Embratur, signs the preface of the guide. “And the Climate Action Guide becomes our reference for the trade, indicating the path we must follow to make our destinations and services increasingly sustainable.” – Marcelo Freixo – President, Embratur The launch of the “GUIA BRASILEIRO DE AÇÃO CLIMÁTICA PARA EMPRESAS E DESTINOS TURÍSTICOS” underscores the commitment of Embratur, the Green Initiative, and the Brazilian Ministry of Tourism to drive positive climate action the tourism sector. This initiative is a significant step toward aligning the tourism value chain with the strategic recomendations provided by the Glasgow Declaration for Climate Action in Tourism. “The Glasgow Declaration is a catalyst for increased urgency about the need to accelerate climate action in tourism and to secure strong commitments to support the global goals to halve emissions over the next decade and reach Net Zero emissions as soon as possible before 2050.“ By providing practical and accessible resources, this guide empowers stakeholders in the tourism value chain industry to take meaningful steps towards decarbonization of their activities ensuring that tourism sector in Brazil remains competitive in the long run and directly contributes to the achievement of the Paris Agreement recommendations

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Ocho Sur receives 'Carbon Measured' Certification Leading the Way in Sustainable Palm Oil with Green Initiative

Ocho Sur receives ‘Carbon Measured’ Certification: Leading the Way in Sustainable Palm Oil with Green Initiative

A Landmark in Sustainable Palm Oil Ocho Sur, a company dedicated to sustainable palm oil production in Ucayali, has achieved a significant milestone by obtaining the international certification “Carbon Measured” from Green Initiative. The certification process completed by Ocho Sur complies with the international standards promoted by the United Nations, ensuring consistency and transparency in the measurement of the company’s carbon footprint and its commitment to sustainable development. “The Carbon Measured certification from Green Initiative acknowledges that Ocho Sur has conducted a comprehensive measurement of all greenhouse gas emissions throughout its value chain,” stated Michael Spoor, CEO of Ocho Sur. It is essential for organizations to measure their carbon footprint, as this allows them to identify mitigation measures and establish action plans to achieve carbon neutrality. This initiative drives the company to develop a new generation of products with low carbon emissions or climate-smart attributes, thereby enhancing its market positioning and fostering innovation. Furthermore, it commits the company to accelerate the decarbonization of its activities and to protect local ecosystems in Pucallpa. The work carried out enabled Ocho Sur to strike a balance between generated emissions and emissions captured in its plantations, providing the company with a holistic perspective on mitigation opportunities and positive climate impact. Ocho Sur’s Carbon Measured Journey: Rigorous Certification Process and Impactful CO2 Reduction Initiatives Obtaining the “Carbon Measured” certification is a rigorous process consisting of three main stages: calculate, mitigate, and certify, each with specific sub-stages that ensure the rigor and quality of the study. Since the beginning of its operations, Ocho Sur has been developing strategies and implementing notable initiatives that have allowed it to reduce its CO2. Examples include the implementation of circular economy practices and the utilization of palm waste, such as fiber and husks, to generate biofuel used in boilers. Subsequently, in 2021, they chose to capture the biogas emanating from the stabilization ponds of industrial wastewater treatment. This action represents the second mitigation measure, which enabled the combustion of methane present in the biogas, thus preventing its direct release into the atmosphere. With these initiatives, Ocho Sur is becoming a benchmark for green businesses in the Peruvian Amazon due to its comprehensive focus on sustainable development, centered around forest protection and improvement in the quality of life for the local population. The Peruvian company implements awareness programs for the local population (monitoring workshops), ecosystem protection policies, and mitigation actions as part of its business model, thereby leading a positive change in the region. Partner with Green Initiative for a Sustainable and Impactful Future This achievement calls out to all kinds of businesses that want to help the Earth and society in a good way. At Green Initiative, we stand ready to collaborate with organizations that seek to make a difference in the world. Together, we can drive change, foster innovation, and lead the way to a greener and more sustainable future. Reach out to us today, and let us work hand in hand to forge a path of environmental stewardship and excellence. To learn more about the Green Initiative Certifications and certifying your business, please contact our team of specialists here.

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CLIMATE-SMART AGRICULTURE - Green Initiative

Achieving the Triple Win of CSA

Enhancing Food Security and Climate Resilience Climate-smart agriculture (CSA) is an integrated approach to managing landscapes—cropland, livestock, forests and fisheries—that addresses the interlinked challenges of food security and accelerating climate change. CSA aims to simultaneously achieve three outcomes: Increased productivity Produce more and better food to improve nutrition security and boost incomes, especially of 75 percent of the world’s poor who live in rural areas and mainly rely on agriculture for their livelihoods. Enhanced resilience Reduce vulnerability to drought, pests, diseases and other climate-related risks and shocks; and improve capacity to adapt and grow in the face of longer-term stresses like shortened seasons and erratic weather patterns. Reduced emissions Pursue lower emissions for each calorie or kilo of food produced, avoid deforestation from agriculture and identify ways to absorb carbon out of the atmosphere. While built on existing knowledge, technologies, and principles of sustainable agriculture, CSA is distinct in several ways. First, it has an explicit focus on addressing climate change. Second, CSA systematically considers the synergies and tradeoffs that exist between productivity, adaptation and mitigation. Finally, CSA aims to capture new funding opportunities to close the deficit in investment. Find out more about CSA basics, planning, financing, investing, and more in the online guide to CSA developed in collaboration with the Research Program on Climate Change, Agriculture, and Food Security (CCAFS) of the CGIAR. GREEN INITIATIVE: PARTNERING WITH agribusiness TO IMPLEMENT CLIMATE-SMART BUSINESS STRATEGIES Are you an agribusiness looking to promote climate-smart practices? Contact Green Initiative today and benefit from our expert advisory services. Our team of experienced climate advisors can help you develop and implement customized climate action strategies that meet your business needs and align with the Triple Goals of Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA). Take the first step towards a sustainable future – contact us now to learn more!

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Sustainable Business Leadership Through Climate Positive Certification

Sustainable Business Leadership Through Climate Positive Certification

Becoming climate positive certified can offer several benefits for a company, both in terms of its environmental impact and its business operations. Here are some reasons why a company might consider obtaining climate positive certification: Environmental Responsibility Climate positive certification signifies a company’s commitment to taking meaningful action to address climate change, meaning that your climate action has gone beyond neutrality, actually creating an environmental and climate benefit by removing additional carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. This can help enhance the company’s reputation as an environmentally responsible entity, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers, investors, and partners. Competitive Advantage In a market where sustainability is becoming increasingly important, being climate positive certified can give a company a competitive edge. Consumers and clients are more likely to support and engage with businesses that are taking concrete steps to reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future. Risk Management Climate change poses significant risks to businesses, including supply chain disruptions, regulatory changes, and physical impacts. By becoming climate positive certified, a company can demonstrate to stakeholders that it is actively managing these risks and adapting to a changing climate. Innovation and Creativity Pursuing climate positive certification often requires a company to innovate and develop new processes, products, and technologies. This can lead to enhanced creativity within the organization and potentially open up new revenue streams from sustainable products and services. Attracting Talent Many employees, especially those from younger generations, are concerned about climate change and seek employment with companies that share their values. Being climate positive certified can help attract and retain top talent who are passionate about sustainability. Investor Appeal Climate positive certification can make a company more attractive to socially responsible investors who consider environmental performance as part of their investment criteria. This could potentially lead to increased access to funding and improved investor relations. Long-Term Viability Addressing climate change isn’t just about short-term gains; it’s about ensuring the long-term viability of the company in a world affected by climate-related challenges. By obtaining certification, a company demonstrates its commitment to being part of the solution, which can contribute to its overall sustainability and success. Regulatory Compliance As governments and international bodies implement more stringent regulations to mitigate climate change, being climate positive certified can position a company ahead of regulatory requirements, reducing the risk of non-compliance penalties. Stakeholder Engagement Climate positive certification can foster stronger relationships with various stakeholders, including customers, suppliers, communities, and NGOs. This engagement can lead to collaborative efforts and partnerships to address shared sustainability goals. Positive Brand Image Climate positive certification can significantly enhance a company’s brand image, showcasing its dedication to environmental stewardship and inspiring other businesses and industries to follow suit. Ultimately, becoming climate positive certified is not only a responsible decision for the planet but can also yield tangible business benefits by aligning a company’s operations with sustainability goals and positioning it as a leader in its industry. Empower Your Business Journey Towards Climate Positive Certification Today! Calling all visionary business owners and leaders! Unlock the transformative power of sustainability with our expert guidance towards climate positive certification. Elevate your business’s reputation as an environmental leader, gain a competitive edge in the sustainability-focused market, actively manage climate-related risks, foster innovation, attract top talent and investors, and strengthen stakeholder engagement. Let us guide you in shaping a more sustainable and successful future – contact us today to embark on the journey toward climate positive certification.

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green initiative recommended article

Climate Action: Igniting Competitiveness in Central America and the Dominican Republic

Discover the transformative power of Climate Action as a driver of competitiveness in Latin America In this compelling article, titled “Climate Action: Igniting Competitiveness in Central America and the Dominican Republic,” Jan Luis Piantini, Vice President of CEO Advisors, explores the transformative power of climate action for businesses in the region. With Latin America’s abundant natural capital and growing global concerns about climate change, companies face a crucial challenge to integrate climate action into their core business models. Piantini highlights how embracing sustainable practices can not only guarantee long-term survival and success but also position Central America and the Dominican Republic as leaders in attracting investments and catalyzing industrial development. Explore how embracing climate action can pave the way to success for Central America and the Dominican Republic while ensuring a sustainable and prosperous future for us all. Discover the pivotal role that climate-consciousness plays in shaping a prosperous future for the region and beyond. Don’t miss this thought-provoking piece that delves into the opportunities and benefits of climate action for businesses and the environment. Click here to read the article in Revista Vida y Exito magazine! 🌿📰

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