If you have a relevant resource (books, papers, bulletins, etc.) you would like to see announced in this section, please forward a copy for review by the Bridges staff to Malena Sell at msell@ictsd.ch.
FOOD MILES OR POVERTY ERADICATION: THE MORAL DUTY TO EAT AFRICAN STRAWBERRIES AT CHRISTMAS. By Benito Müller, Oxford Institute for Energy Studies & Oxford Climate Policy, October 2007. This article looks at the recent controversy about discouraging consumers particularly in the UK from buying produce from developing countries because of their ‘food miles’, i.e. the transport carbon emissions (especially from air freight), and the effect that such an environmental consumer boycott could have on the efforts to eradicate poverty in these countries. He proposes a solution to the dilemma which offers a ‘double development dividend’, not only in terms of clean exports, but also in promoting much needed Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) activities in the poorest and most vulnerable countries. To access the article visit http://www.oxfordclimatepolicy.org/publications/mueller.html
FUELLING THE THREAT FOR SUSTAINABLE FISHERIES IN EUROPE. By the World Wildlife Fund, July 2007. This report analyses fuel subsidies and the impact it has on fish stocks and the fisheries sector in the EU. It is well documented that by reducing operating costs and thus enhancing fishing effort, fuel subsidies are increasing the fishing pressure on the target species and related species (e.g. bycatch) and therefore contributing to the overexploitation of EU fisheries. This does not only cause further depletion of fish stocks but will also support economically unprofitable practices and undermine future economic benefits. To access the study go to http://assets.panda.org/downloads/wwf_fuel_subsidies_to_eu.pdf
TRACKING INDUSTRIAL ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND CO2 EMISSIONS. By the International Energy Agency (2007). This is a new study of industrial energy efficiency and CO2 emissions. The analysis shows that efficiencies differ widely between countries producing similar products and using similar processes, which is a clear indication of the potential for further efficiency gains. The study elaborates on a set of powerful new indicators that look at energy use per unit of physical product. It has a number of new findings, including China’s new rank as the single largest industrial producer of a wide range of energy-intensive industrial commodities. For more information visit http://www.iea.org/w/bookshop/add.aspx?id=298
SUSTAINABLE MARKETS INVESTMENT BRIEFINGS. By Lorenzo Cotula (International Institute for Environment and Development, September 2007). This is a series of five briefings that discuss the sustainable development issues raised by legal arrangements for the protection of foreign investment. The briefings are based on legal research by IIED and its partners. The goal is to provide accessible but accurate information for human rights, development and environmental organisations working on issues raised by foreign investment in low- and middle-income countries. The five briefings focus on: an overview; investment treaties; the regulatory taking doctrine; foreign investment contracts; and international arbitration. To access the briefings, visit http://www.iied.org/pubs/search.php?w=&k=&t=&a=&s=IIEDBRIEF
BIOSAFETY FIRST: HOLISTIC APPROACHES TO RISK AND UNCERTAINTY IN GENETIC ENGINEERING AND GENETICALLY MODIFIED ORGANISMS. By Terje Traavik and Lim Li Ching (Center for Biosafety, August 2007). This book provides a collection of the latest thinking concerning biosafety science. Its approach to biosafety is holistic, encompassing not only the scientific, but also the socio-economic, cultural, policy and regulatory spheres. It does not claim to give all the answers, but acknowledges the issues, and points to the uncertainties and knowledge gaps that still need to be addressed. Drawing on the new scientific field of ‘gene ecology’, and advocating a precautionary approach, this book provides a foundation on which countries can start to openly and responsibly appraise these new technologies and their products. For further information visit http://www.gmwatch.org/archive2.asp?arcid=8281
SOUTH BULLETIN: REFLECTIONS AND FORESIGHTS. By the South Centre, October 2007. This is the inaugural issue of a re-vamped version of the South Bulletin. The Bulletin has a new look and a new format, and puts greater emphasis on sharing knowledge that matters for the South. This is an outcome of ideas shared by several colleagues, including officials from Member Countries of the South Centre in Geneva, New York, Brussels and in the capitals. The new Bulletin will enable cross-sharing of experiences and fulfil specific knowledge needs on current and emerging issues in which developing countries are stakeholders. To access the issue visit http://www.southcentre.org/southbulletin/1-1-oct-07.pdf