Simon Torkington

Dec 2, 2024 | weforum.org | Simon Torkington

This article has been updated. The ozone layer protects life on Earth from the sun’s most harmful rays - and scientists say the ozone layer hole is continuing to shrink and could fully repair by 2066. The Montreal Protocol to eradicate ozone-depleting substances, signed by a record number of countries in 1987, has been a success.

Nov 30, 2024 | theprint.in | Simon Torkington

In the coming years, space technology will help us to monitor the effects of climate change, warn of impending natural disasters and improve humanitarian response when they strike. Space tech can also streamline the flow of global trade through more efficient supply chains. Many countries are leveraging the opportunities presented by space technology to accelerate the development of digital capabilities. Here are six examples. IndiaIndia’s space ambitions continue to grow.

Nov 21, 2024 | weforum.org | Simon Torkington

Around 80% of all goods are transported by ship. Image: Unsplash/John SimmonsSenior Writer, Forum AgendaShipping produces over a billion tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions yearly. New zero-emission fuels produced from green hydrogen could cut this by 80-100% once scaled. The World Economic Forum’s First Suppliers Hub connects suppliers and buyers to scale green maritime fuels. Almost everything we own has been transported by ship at some point in its lifecycle.

Sep 23, 2024 | weforum.org | Simon Torkington

Buildings contribute almost 40% of global carbon emissions, the World Green Building Council says. Innovations like low-emissivity glass and smart retrofitting are helping to significantly reduce carbon footprints in the built environment. Global collaboration, through projects like the World Economic Forum’s Centre for Urban Transformation, is key to scaling sustainable building practices and meeting climate targets by 2050.

Sep 11, 2024 | weforum.org | Simon Torkington |Stephanie Teeuwen

Historical algorithm bias in healthcare reveals a critical need for data equity. A study found that correcting racial bias in healthcare could increase the percentage of Black patients receiving additional care from 17.7% to 46.5%. Now, a new framework from the World Economic Forum’s Global Future Council on Data Equity guides the creation of fairer data systems across industries.