Socioeconomic factors that impact development

Posted on by MarkCuthbertson

There are a variety of factor categories to take into consideration when discussing the economic development of a country. One such category that is occasionally overlooked is a country’s social identity and interaction. Economics can be significantly influenced by social and cultural factors — both internally and externally.

Here are a few major social factors that tend to affect economic development.

Discrimination

Discrimination is obviously not a common indicator of societal strength, and in terms of economic development, it can be a significant detriment — particularly to poor countries. Discrimination can stunt the progress of poor countries in terms of their productivity and stability, creating unnecessary civil conflict that can become a distraction from key economic issues. For example, certain discriminatory standards may limit the education of a major demographic within a country, ultimately undermining groups of people who otherwise could contribute to economic growth. Furthermore, discrimination between two separate countries may negatively influence trade and other economic interaction between those countries.

To continue reading, visit http://markcuthbertson.net/social-factors-that-affect-economic-development/

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Top forms of sustainable energy to watch in 2017

Posted on by MarkCuthbertson

As 2017 nears its halfway point, environmental sustainability has continued to be a major issue for us all. At the same time, renewable energy resources continue to grow and emerge through our efforts to preserve the planet for future generations.

Here are a few top forms of renewable energy gaining momentum in 2017.

Wind power

Led by the operations associated with the Block Island Wind Farm, offshore wind farms have clearly emerged as a major player in modern sustainability. However, wind’s influence on energy consumption can be traced to both offshore and onshore territories. Wind now stands as one of the biggest forms of energy in the global power market, with nearly 59 more gigawatts expected for commission in 2017. Best of all, the price of wind power is only continuing to drop, giving it a strong outlook through the rest of the year and beyond.

To continue reading, visit http://mark-cuthbertson.com/top-forms-of-renewable-energy-in-2017/

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Tips for getting children involved with politics

Posted on by MarkCuthbertson

Many Americans never register to vote, and those who do register never actually exercise that right. There are many reasons for this lack of action, as well as an equal amount of excuses used to justify it. This apparent apathy creates situations where the best interests of communities are not met. People must have some involvement in the development of policies that affect their lives. The only way to achieve this is through voting. Creating a generation of committed voters and politically active citizens requires getting children involved in the political process at an early age.

#1. Teach them the process.

Encourage their teachers and school system to offer an election each year that allows children to vote for local leaders and legislation currently on the ballot. This teaches children how easy it is to learn the facts and make their own choice. Parents should also encourage children to run for their student council to learn more about campaigning and becoming a leader as well as a voter.

#2. Let them see government in action.

Take children to the polls when voting or visit the state house when the senate is in session. Go to political speeches and debates or attend a rally or a protest. Do not force them to stand on the sidelines. Talk to people involved in these events and find out why they are so passionate about their causes.

Continue reading at: http://mark-cuthbertson.com/how-to-get-children-involved-in-politics/

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Ways technology can contribute to sustainability

Posted on by MarkCuthbertson

Global population rates have continued to increase and the demand to achieve quality of life goals has become a necessity. As a result, living sustainably in the future now poses a challenge. The UN Sustainable Development Goals projects that by 2030, 6 out of 10 individuals will be inhabiting cities or urban centers. This change comes with an important question: how can technology help build well-managed cities anchored on green practices and a smaller carbon-footprint?

The good news is that technological advancements have made it possible for communities to take that step toward sustainability.

Smart Sustainable Cities

The vision of building smart connected cities is tied in with sustainable development. As land becomes a precious resource, it ushers in a need to build interconnected cities that maximize water and space and other resources. As an example, Singapore, a city of skyscrapers, has invested in technology in its bid to become a smart nation. Over the years, the government has deployed sensors to monitor streets and integrated an advanced island-wide fiber optic infrastructure that produces one of the fastest internet connections in the world.

Clean Energy

Technology has also brought improvements in renewable energy generation, allowing more communities to harness solar, water, wind, and other green sources of power. One of the cornerstones of sustainability is clean energy. In the past, countries have utilized fossil fuel to power homes and businesses but as sustainability becomes the goal, renewable technology has been tapped for this purpose.

Comprehensive Health Care

Healthcare access is also a key component of sustainability, With more communities now getting connected to the internet, even locations without specialized healthcare can secure medical assistance through telemedicine. Just recently, a new portable telemedicine platform introduced by NATO expanded its purpose into addressing immediate needs during disaster and emergencies.

To read more, visit http://mark-cuthbertson.com/6-ways-technology-contributes-to-sustainability/

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