Ana Likas, Brazil correspondent for The Economist, dives into pressing global issues, including Israel's imminent military plans against Iran amid rising tensions with Hezbollah. She shares a firsthand account from the Lebanese border, revealing the human cost of conflict. Shifting focus, Likas discusses promising reforestation initiatives in Brazil, driven by carbon-trading opportunities and technology. She also highlights Switzerland's lead in innovation rankings, revealing surprising successes among smaller nations and emerging economies.
Ireland's robust economic environment and governmental support are attracting major US tech firms, establishing it as an innovation hub.
Brazil's carbon trading schemes are driving new reforestation initiatives, crucial for enhancing the voluntary carbon market amid regulatory pressures.
Deep dives
Ireland as an Innovation Hub
Ireland has become a prominent innovation hub, attracting over 1,800 international businesses, including nearly all of the top US software companies. These organizations are drawn to Ireland's robust framework that offers skilled labor, considerable governmental support, and a stable economic environment. The significant returns on investment available in Ireland are further bolstered by policies encouraging sustainability and nurturing entrepreneurial growth. This ecosystem makes Ireland an appealing destination for global companies seeking to leverage its advantages for innovation and business development.
The Impact of Carbon Trading in Brazil
Brazil is witnessing a new wave of reforestation initiatives fueled by carbon trading schemes that promote environmental sustainability. Companies such as Momback and ReGreen are pioneering these projects, hoping to scale up reforestation using advanced techniques borrowed from other industries. This is essential for enhancing the voluntary carbon market, which has suffered reputational issues but remains critical for companies aiming to offset their emissions. As industries face regulatory pressure, the demand for carbon credits could bolster Brazil's position as a leader in carbon removal through reforestation.
Switzerland's Unexpected Innovation Leadership
Despite assumptions that innovation is dominated by tech superpowers, Switzerland has emerged as the world's most innovative country, according to the Global Innovation Index. The index measures various factors, including research output and technological adoption relative to population size, which highlights the impact of smaller, wealthy nations. Notable achievements in pharmaceuticals and technology have strengthened Switzerland's standing while showing that innovation can thrive outside conventional hubs. This trend suggests a need for larger nations to reassess their strategies to foster innovation and adapt to shifting global dynamics.
Israel is planning to strike Iran within days, even as its wars in Lebanon and Gaza deepen. Our correspondent reports from the Lebanese border, where he embedded with Israeli forces. Carbon-trading schemes may finally help reforest the Amazon (9:29). And which country is the most innovative (16:58)?