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NEWS: To what extent are Africa's megacities equipped and prepared to cope with the impacts of climate change?

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The health repercussions of climate change in African cities require immediate attention. These urban areas find themselves on the front lines, facing rising temperatures and worsening air pollution. To safeguard both people and the environment, governments must act decisively. They must channel investments into green infrastructure, champion clean energy initiatives, and bolster healthcare systems. African cities face substantial health challenges due to climate change, including flood risks, droughts, and the spread of vector-borne diseases. Droughts are a significant cause of mortality globally and are indirectly linked to extreme heat. Indirect health issues arise through food-borne and vector-borne diseases, non-communicable illnesses, displacement, and mental health stressors. Air pollution intensifies with fossil fuel combustion, contributing to over 5 million deaths annually. African cities have responded by implementing policies to minimize resource consumption and reduce gree
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OPINION: Breaking the deadlock in the supply-demand dilemma leads to a more sustainable and resilient built environment.

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The built environment accounts for over a third of total global greenhouse gas emissions. To combat the negative impact this industry has on fragile ecosystems, deep systemic change is needed to transform the ways in which we build and manufacture.


The built environment's rising emissions necessitate sustainable building solutions. Regions like Europe have implemented minimum energy efficiency standards for new buildings to reduce the building sector's carbon footprint. However, achieving net-zero emissions in the built environment is challenging, particularly when energy efficiency investments are outweighed by conventional construction approaches. 

Striking a balance between stringent regulations and innovation is crucial. Regulations, such as the Future Homes Standard in the UK, aim to reduce carbon emissions in new homes, but compliance can be difficult. Supply chain issues and soaring costs can arise when demand for sustainable materials exceeds supply. Startups developing innovative solutions face challenges in scaling up production due to high costs.

Venture capital firms play a vital role in connecting startups with corporates, driving innovation and sustainable development. Political cycles and changing priorities can disrupt net-zero roadmaps, highlighting the need for the private sector and forward-thinking corporates to maintain a consistent approach to emission reduction. Collaboration among stakeholders is essential to breaking the supply-demand deadlock, reducing emissions, and creating a more sustainable built environment.

This hardhatOPINION was written by Victoria Burrows is Portfolio Development and Industry Partnerships Manager at KOMPAS VC, it was first published on Maddyness click here to read the full article. 

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