Natural resources and energy
Indonesian and Malaysian palm oil at a crossroads
Europe’s war against palm oil and overall western pressure risks pushing Indonesia and Malaysia closer to less regulated markets.
The Energy Briefing: Implications of Iran gas deal with France’s Total
Iran has concluded a $5.9 billion deal with a consortium led by French Total, a victory for Hassan Rouhani’s administration and even prospective investors.
The growing water crisis in China
The reverberations of China’s water security crisis have already had global implications, notably encouraging the Arab Spring.
To the victor belong the spoils: The future of green energy
In recent years, China has pushed for the rapid development of renewable energy infrastructure, touting itself as the leader of innovative green energy.
Kayin state struggles expose Myanmar’s energy dilemma
Renewed interest in coal in Myanmar carries broad risks for the government. But while greener energy is desirable, renewables come with their own problems.
Under the Radar: Forget the South China Sea, this is Asia’s real water war
While tensions in the South China Sea have the potential for limited skirmishes far out to sea, the competition over the resources of the Mekong River is putting millions at risk of natural disasters, famine and regional instability.
Mozambique and Rosneft’s hunt for foreign policy pull
Word that Rosneft will soon open an office in Mozambique belies the company and Igor Sechin’s growing influence over Russia’s policy in the Asia-Pacific.
Vietnam and the Philippines dive back into contested waters
Both Vietnam and the Philippines restarted drilling and exploring for oil in contested waters in the South China Sea – risking the ire of China.
Both America’s left and right have failed on environmental legislation
The United States needs a balanced, consistent approach to environmental policy making, not one prone to U-turns every election cycle.
Under the Radar: Are you ready for the Middle East’s solar gold rush?
The MENA region saw over 2 GW of new solar capacity tendered in 2016, and 2017 looks to easily surpass this level as hundreds of billions of dollars begin to flow into green energy in the Arab world.
