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Achieving environmental sustainability and growth in Africa: the role of science, technology and innovation
Author(s) -
Webersik Christian,
Wilson Clarice
Publication year - 2009
Publication title -
sustainable development
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.115
H-Index - 64
eISSN - 1099-1719
pISSN - 0968-0802
DOI - 10.1002/sd.411
Subject(s) - sustainability , agriculture , scarcity , natural resource , biodiversity , natural resource economics , water scarcity , climate change , environmental planning , environmental resource management , sustainable development , water resources , sustainability science , business , economic growth , economics , political science , geography , social sustainability , ecology , archaeology , law , biology , microeconomics
African economies are closely linked to natural resources and rely heavily on agriculture, largely rain fed. Agricultural development has long being considered of secondary importance in African economic development. As the current food crisis shows, it is important as this article argues to rethink not only agricultural policies, but also agricultural practices, and particularly the role science and innovation can play to address development and sustainability challenges. It is predicted that Africa will be particularly vulnerable to climate change and climate variability associated with biodiversity loss, food insecurity, water scarcity and an increase in drought frequency. This article examines pressing environmental challenges Africa is facing and discusses the role of science and technology solutions in meeting these challenges. An environmental performance country methodology is used to identify areas of best practice in achieving environmental policy targets, such as clean water or biodiversity conservation, as well as areas of action. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.