Very timely book by the World Bank on Air Pollution, Marine Plastics, and Coastal Erosion in MENA. Unfortunately, 1) MENA’s cities are on average more than 5 times as air-polluted as recommended by WHO guidelines. 2) MENA’s seas are amongst the most plastics-polluted internationally and 3) in Maghreb region, coastal erosion is about 10 times faster than the global average.
As a result, the economic damages from pollution, marine plastics, and coastal erosion are estimated to about 3 percent of GDP every year in MENA . In addition, ambient air pollution causes about 270,000 premature mortalities each year in the region. A set of policy recommendations is proposed.
Published by Dr. Wael Mohamed Aaminou
Witnessing the 2008 financial crisis unfold in the United States was a defining moment in my career. This experience led me to transition towards ethical finance, which prioritizes the real economy, social welfare, and environmental sustainability.
This journey has since taken me across Africa, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia, where I have contributed to shaping financial ecosystems across various sectors, including energy, agriculture, healthcare, and water. These diverse experiences have taught me that development challenges are complex and require a holistic approach, especially when resources are constrained. I have also learned that prioritizing key issues, particularly climate change, is essential. Climate change impacts nearly every sustainability perspective, making it a focal point of my work.
In my current work, I leverage my expertise to confront climate challenges and drive the growth of green and inclusive economies, particularly within emerging markets.
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