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16.07.2025

Investments in environment

Introduction

In the world facing increasing environmental challenges investments in environ- ment became a priority. Global warming, depletion of natural resources, and loss of biodiversity affect all regions, but mostly the developing countries. These states, regardless of their socio-economic vulnerability, have priceless ecological wealth, namely unique tropical ecosystems that play a key role in global climate regulation.
According to the World Bank’s report dated January, 2025, Sub-Saharan Africa is forecasted to grow by 4.1% in 2025 due to the milder financial conditions and reduced inflation. However, development of this region is still threatened by extreme weather conditions that increase poverty level and slow down its economic potential.
In this context, investments in environment ensure double benefit: protection of our planet and promotion of sustainable and inclusive growth. Thus, such devel- oping countries as Sub-Saharan Africa countries may turn their local problems into global solutions.

Problematics

1.    How investments in environment may promote sustainable economic growth, especially in developing countries?
2.    What may happen to the world economy, if environmental issues remain neglected?

Supported hypotheses and arguments

1.    Investments in environment for activation of local and global economies
-    Creation of job opportunities associated with ecology and poverty reduction Such areas associated with the environment as renewable energy sources,
waste management, and ecosystem restoration offer vast amount of job opportu- nities. In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) projects of sustainable tropical forest management are aimed at the protection of natural resources, improvement of food security, and reduction of carbon emissions. These initiatives create thou- sands of local jobs and transform ecological problems into the possibilities for social and economic development.
-    Attractiveness of international investments
Due to ambitious environmental policy, developing countries may raise foreign capital to support innovative projects. For example, in June, 2024, DRC launched a project of sustainable forest management in Mayombe, Ubangi, and Mai-Ndombe, which demonstrates the ability of African countries to combine local development and environmental protection.
-    Use of renewable energy sources for economic stability
Sub-Saharan Africa has exceptional potential in the area of solar, wind, and hydraulic energy. By supporting implementation of these projects, the region not only reduces its dependency on fossil fuels, but also improves resistance to global market volatility.
2.    Economic and social consequences of ecological inaction
-    Connection to environment and impact of migration
Lack of safety and environmental crises in DRC aggravated by the struggle for control over natural resources resulted in mass displacement of the population. According to United Nations, in 2023, there were 6.8 million internally dis- placed persons in DRC, which is the largest amount of internally displaced persons in Africa. This forced migration ohen caused by natural disasters such as floods or
droughts aggravates social and economic tensions in migrant reception areas.
Besides, illegal use of natural resources by armed groups in areas of high bio- diversity, such as tropical forests, promotes deforestation and loss of biodiversity. This illustrates the link between environmental problems and migration crises and highlights the urgent nature of investments in sustainable solutions to stabilize society and protect ecosystems.
-    Increased frequency of natural disasters
According to the World Bank, increased frequency of droughts and floods in Sub-Saharan Africa may result in increased poverty level and destabilize the infra- structure.
-    Social and migration instability
Lack of water and food aggravated by ecological crises may cause mass migra- tion and geopolitical conflicts.

-    Increased costs associated with depletion of natural resources
Non-sustainable use of these resources will increase production costs and disrupt common supply channels.
Analysis of particular solutions for investments in environment
-    Afforestation and forest restoration
DRC acknowledged as the main lungs of the entire world plays a key role in combating deforestation and climate change. Investments in afforestation not only protect biodiversity, but also promote global climate regulation.
-    Sustainable agriculture and waste management
Promotion of implementation of sustainable agricultural techniques improves soil productivity and reduces environmental impact. For example, International Centre for Research in Agroforestry and Biodiversity International are working on creation of a common seed bank in Tshopo province, DRC, to guaranty sustainable access to various seeds for local farmers.
-    Proprietary technologies and the circular economy
Such technological innovations as green buildings and electric cars offer solu- tions to reduce global exhausts. Besides, promotion of circular economy maximizes efficiency of resource usage and reduces waste of raw materials.
-    International cooperation and education
Education and international cooperation are necessary to attract public atten- tion and raise funding. In DRC, Association for Environmental Protection and Sus- tainable Development educates young people through literary competitions, such as LitEco. This program attracts attention of school children to afforestation and forest restoration, which are two efficient solutions for the deforestation problem.

Conclusion

Investments in environment are not a mere ecological imperative, but also an economic and social need. Developing countries that are rich in natural resources can become leaders in ecological transition, if they stick to a forward-looking pol- icy and undertake long-term initiatives.
Otherwise, ignoring of these problems may result in deep crises that threaten food security, social stability, and global economies. Together, through coordinated efforts and significant contributions, it is possible for us to build a world, in which people and nature coexist in harmony, guaranteeing secure future for all future generations.
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Bosuandole Antoinette
DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO
Bosuandole Antoinette
Communication and awareness manager Association for the Protection of the Environment and Sustainable Development (APEDD)