Centre for Development and Environment (CDE)

CDE series

Spotlight archive 2019

19.11.2019

“We have to approach biodiversity conservation holistically”

To save our planet's biodiversity and ecosystems, a key initiative seeks to place half the earth under protection. Researchers from CDE and the University of Cambridge have taken a first-ever empirical look at who might be affected.

24.10.2019

Research partnership between Switzerland and Ethiopia brings knowledge to the field

The results of a long-term Swiss–Ethiopian research partnership in the Upper Blue Nile basin show how water and land can be used sustainably even in a context of rapid population growth.

22.8.2019

“Economic growth alone does not automatically benefit the poorest people”

In early May, the Swiss Federal Council presented the new development policy strategy proposed for consultation. Now CDE is weighing in with its own response. An interview with Sabin Bieri Member of CDE's Executive Committee (in German).

17.7.2019

“The least developed countries remain de facto excluded from tax information exchange”

A research project is investigating ways of curbing illicit financial flows from developing countries. Transparency and exchange of information in tax matters are possible levers to improve the situation. CDE scientist Irene Musselli outlines the latest findings.

21.5.2019

Science at the crossroads of data production and political engagement

CDE researcher Julie Zähringer has won the Prix Schläfli 2019 in Geosciences for her dissertation. Drawing on satellite images and around 1,200 interviews, she analysed changes in land use around protected areas in Madagascar.

6.5.2019

“We must combine conservation of nature with benefits to society”

On 6 May 2019, IPBES presented its report on the state of biodiversity and ecosystem services worldwide. An interview with Andreas Heinimann from CDE about biodiversity and ecosystem loss.

25.4.2019

The fight against invasive alien species in Eastern Africa has only just begun

CDE researchers are working with scientists from local and international institutions to investigate the spread of Prosopis juliflora and other invasive alien species in Eastern Africa, their impacts on local livelihoods, and how they might be managed.

11.4.2019

“Land systems are the loci for sustainability transformations”

Ariane de Bremond, CDE researcher and executive officer of the GLP International Programme Office, discussed the role of the 4th Open Science Meeting in Bern.

25.1.2019

“Inequality also harms the environment”

CDE researcher Graziano Ceddia shows that inequality in Latin America promotes deforestation.