April 2023

Celebrating Earth Day

With the release of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change’s (IPCC) Sixth Assessment Report last month, it is evident the window for acting on climate change is quickly closing. While the report serves as a stark warning, it also offers a message of hope and a clear call to action – we must act now if we are to secure a sustainable future for all.

As we look ahead to Earth Day, we recognize the critical role of climate considerations in addressing challenges across domains – from health, to housing, to economic growth. Climate change exacerbates existing inequities and vulnerabilities, but climate action can serve as a catalyst to a more equitable and inclusive society.

From electrifying health facilities that power local communities, to addressing the intersection between climate adaptation, housing, and equity, we are committed to building a resilient, equitable future through our multi-sectoral climate solutions. 

Keep reading to learn how we are working to #InvestInOurPlanet.

EXPERT INSIGHTS

How Needs-Based Climate Insurance Can Help Communities in the Pacific

Pacific Island Countries are particularly vulnerable to climate hazards. Climate adaptation experts Caroline Staub, Daniel Peniston, and Akata Taito share how specialized insurance products could reduce the financial impact of extreme weather. See how >>

The Road to Climate Resilience

Increased finance for climate adaptation is a welcome and necessary outcome from COP27, but more must be done. Abt’s climate resilience experts share key recommendations for donor agencies and implementing partners. Learn more >>

Why We Should Invest in Productive Use of Energy for Health 
Over 100,000 health facilities across sub-Saharan Africa lack access to reliable electricity. Amanda Quintana and Jaime Jarvis share how investments in the productive use of energy for health hold the triple promise of improved health outcomes, economic well-being, and climate resilience. 

Learn more >>

7 Ways to Optimize IRA Grants’ Contribution to Environmental Justice
After attending EPA’s National Environmental Justice Advisory Committee Meeting, Abt’s Larry Weinstock identifies possible solutions to address historic challenges in environmental justice funding. Read his recommendations >>

NEWS

Abt Earns First Ever Sustainability Standard for Professional Services Firms

Action on climate and sustainability is part of Abt’s DNA. Abt is the first-ever company to earn the new NSF sustainability certification, which defines fundamental requirements for professional service organizations across environmental, social, economic, and sustainable supply chain criteria. Learn more >>

Abt Expands Work with EPA on Toxics and Pollution Prevention 

We’re proud to continue our work with the Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. This new work will extend critical support in protecting human health and the environment from exposure to toxic chemicals, especially among historically disadvantaged communities. Learn more >>

New York’s Bold Climate Plan Approved After Abt Analysis 

$170 billion in public health benefits. That’s what New York State’s Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act would deliver, according to Abt’s Climate HealthCounts analysis. The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority hired Abt to determine the impact its Scoping Plan could have on public health benefits. See our findings >>

PODCAST: THE INTERSECT

Green Jobs and Global Youth: Can Clean Energy Power Positive Youth Development?

From Cool Roofs to Community Relocation: New Solutions for Climate Adaptation and Resilience

SPOTLIGHT ON 

Circular Economy: A Sustainable Approach to Material Management

Inadequate material management presents major threats to human health and the environment and represents a missed opportunity to recover the value of discarded materials, create green jobs, and combat climate change. Abt helps clients develop circular solutions for solid waste management and marine litter projects. Learn how we can help >>

Developing Solutions for Climate and Health

The health sector is on the front lines of the climate crisis. Abt partners with clients, ministries of health, local organizations, and communities to develop health interventions that build climate-resilient and sustainable health systems. Learn how we can help >>

Tools to Increase Local Communities’ Resilience to Climate Change
Climate-related hazards have devastating effects on all communities, with low- and moderate-income communities at increased risk. Abt partnered with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to develop a new series of guides to help communities increase resilience to climate hazards. See the guides >>

A Win/Win: Driving Improved Climate and Health Outcomes Through Mainstreaming of Co-benefits Quantification 
As the climate crisis intensifies, we urgently need data to calibrate mitigation and adaptation efforts and monitor progress. Luckily, the health impacts of climate change can be quantified. In a new white paper, Abt explores the crucial role of cost-benefit and co-benefit analyses in helping policy makers evaluate the net benefits of proposed actions. Download the white paper >>

Productive Uses of Energy in African Agriculture Could Reduce Poverty
Affordable power is not available in most rural areas of sub-Saharan Africa, limiting agricultural productivity and contributing to poverty. But cost reductions for distributed energy technologies make productive uses of energy (PUE) more feasible. Paul Faeth and Tombo Banda share practical ways in which PUE in agriculture could reduce poverty. Download the white paper >>