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Plastic waste is prominent among the multiple, interlinked environmental challenges currently facing the world. Emerging markets have a significant role to play in addressing the issue, both as leading plastic consumers, and in that they are often disproportionately affected.

After remaining resilient in 2020, the Islamic finance segment is performing strongly this year, as an improved economic environment, a rise in the number of large projects and an increased focus on environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors combine to drive demand.

Oliver Cornock, Oxford Business Group's Editor-in-Chief, recently spoke with John Brash, founder and CEO of Brash Brands, who shared his views on the current economic trends in GCC countries – with a particular focus on Saudi Arabia – that include ambitious innovation and diversification plans; investments in talent and education; support for SMEs and start-ups after the crisis, as well as progress in agricultural sustainability.

The ongoing UN Climate Change Conference in Glasgow has underlined how increased adoption of low-carbon energy sources will be key to reducing global emissions. While it is not without its detractors, many agree that nuclear power has a role to play in this.

Despite the negative impact of the Covid-19 pandemic – which caused Peru's GDP to contract by more than 11% in 2020 – the economy is recovering and businesses are strengthening their commitments to sustainable development. 

As global leaders in politics and business continue to meet in Glasgow to discuss environmental issues as part of UN Climate Change Conference (COP26), some of the world’s most fossil fuel-dependent countries have launched plans to reach net-zero carbon emissions.