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Resources | Governance
The sustainable use of raw materials and natural resources is a crucial factor in the ecological, social and economic future of industrialised and developing countries. The global and national raw materials markets, conflicts over the distribution of water, forest, energy and minerals, as well as the increasing pressure on urban centres and conservation areas make sustainable strategies essential for business and political decision-makers. adelphi works towards strategies for, and the implementation of resource governance. We examine how non-sustainable resource use impacts conflicts and security, detail options for a social and environmentally compatible exploitation of minerals and value creation, and advise on and research into sustainable water management. Through our work, we strengthen the awareness and participation of the population and decision-makers in sustainable city planning and safeguarding biodiversity.
Biodiversity and Conservation
The extent of the problem of biodiversity loss can only be compared to climate change. For this reason, adelphi has established biodiversity and nature conservation as a new field of action. In the Southern Caucasus, we are supporting the Ministry for the Environment in implementing EU nature conservation law, advising the Ministry for the Environment in Morocco on the development of a national soil protection programme, and are helping to reforest the coastal regions in Tamil Nadu in India that were hit by the tsunami. » more
Minerals and Mining
Minerals are crucial, non-renewable resources that foster economic development and technological innovation. Increasing demand for metals and minerals has already led to constantly unsteady and spiralling prices, and shortfalls in supply as well as a rising number of conflicts about raw material deposits plus the increasing pressure on the environment due to exploration, processing, and transport. We advise businesses and organisations within Germany and abroad on social, sustainable and conflict-aware exploration and value addition. A set of instruments for dealing with resources and conflicts has been especially produced for development policy and analyses carried out into the environmental impact of foreign direct investment in the mining sector. » more
Resource Policy
Resource policy has the task of harmonising target conflicts between economic development, security of supply and environmental compatibility. Through its work in research and consulting on lifecycle approaches, recycling and substitution, adelphi supports a sustainable resource policy. Here, adelphi analyses transparency and efficiency standards and carries out case studies on the different raw materials capable of minimising risk for producers and the consuming countries. » more
Urban Development
By 2050, 75 per cent of the world's population will be living in cities – a highly challenging development for urban areas. Climate change and scarce natural resources have to be addressed, but opportunities exist to improve energy efficiency and promote low-carbon growth. adelphi advises implementing agencies such as the GIZ on strategy development and tailored capacity building programmes for cities and municipalities in Europe and abroad. Public exhibitions – during the European Mobility Week for instance – showcase innovative approaches in urban mobility and participatory decision-making. » more
Water and Waste Water
The demand for water is growing yet there is also a simultaneous increase in water shortages and pollution. Sustainable resource management is needed to cope with these developments. For clients including the European Commission, adelphi plans and implements international projects on water supply in rural and urban regions and on integrated water resource management. We advise development cooperation actors on ways of avoiding and solving conflicts over water, and how to strengthen participative approaches. » more