All about the wider issues that come out of the sustainability transitions including human rights
We know that 'solving' the artisanal mining challenges is something we need to do. We also know that it's complicated. But people have done it, or at least started it - a Mozambique case study
We all know that stock markets (in fact all financial markets) are partly driven by sentiment. But this only tells part of the story. Accounting fundamentals also matter.
If we want companies to change, then we should start with simple 'yes' questions and work up to the 'Big Yes', our end objective. Don't start by demanding changes they will find it easy to say no to.
Change is about people, and humans are not rational beings. If we want our sustainability investments to happen, and to deliver a fair financial return, we need to understand why they face opposition.
It's often very attractive to think that data gives us the answer. Sadly, just thinking about what we can measure rather than what's important can lead us to disaster.
Recent elections in Europe have led to a shift to the right, but will this really halt the green transitions, or are we just talking about a temporary slowing ?
If the large global mining companies are not investing enough in critical minerals, do we need to think more laterally? Could artisanal miners (ASM) help bridge at least part of the gap, and maybe bring production on stream faster?
If I say stranded assets to a finance person or a sustainability professional my guess is that your first thought is oil & gas. But is this missing the point?
Regulation is seen as an important element of the process of building a more sustainable economy. But sometimes it fails - we need to remain vigilant.
Drugs produced for the 'average person' don't always work for everyone. Are we finally starting to leave the world of one size fits all, and heading toward personalised medicine and diet?
Legal actions against governments are seeing some interesting changes. And legal actions against governments have implications for companies and investors.
It's hard to believe that the use of mercury in artisanal mining is still so prevalent 200 years after its extensive use in California. Until you start to think about the practicalities. The alternatives are often limited.