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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: Innovative solutions can spur biodiversity net gain in the built environment

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Concrete has been associated with adverse environmental effects, but recent advancements offer the potential to harness it for a positive impact on nature. This innovative approach aims to create a sustainable future, where concrete contributes to biodiversity conservation and thrives.


The UK's new biodiversity net gain (BNG) rule mandates developers to enhance biodiversity by 10% in new residential and commercial projects. Holistic urban planning and thoughtful design of buildings and public spaces can help achieve this target. According to Nollaig Forrest concrete can be used to a nature-positive future by developing green solutions focused on bringing biodiversity into cities.

Advanced green roofing systems can create ecosystems, habitats, and stopovers for wildlife, including migratory birds and pollinators. Permeable concrete allows rainwater infiltration, reducing flooding and creating green spaces. Green walls and bioactive concrete applications promote biodiversity in urban areas and marine environments. Businesses can make a measurable positive impact on biodiversity levels by adopting such solutions. Nollaig Forrest believes the UK government's BNG rule is a bold and progressive step towards a sustainable future.

This hardhatOPINION was written by Nollaig Forrest Chief Sustainability Officer at Holcim for New Civil Engineer and the full opinion piece can be read here.

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