Global Ideas | Deutsche Welle

Jordan goes to great lengths to get water to its people. In the dry country that requires a lot of power and the water still doesn't always reach its destination. New technology could be the solution.

The Kalunga live in remote settlements in the Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park in Brazil. These people of African origin whose ancestors were slaves still live in poverty, usually off-grid. The NGO Litro de Luz is introducing them to solar power.

In South Africa, one third of food is thrown away, even though there are millions in need. And although food rotting on rubbish dumps damages the climate. Now there are solutions.

The former Soviet Republic of Moldova – one of the poorest countries in Europe – relies heavily on Russia for its energy needs. A German NGO is helping increase the country’s energy efficiency, starting with the residential sector.

Soil is second only to the ocean in the service it provides as a CO2 store. When in the ground, carbon enriches the soil and is good for the climate, but misuse of land has already led to the loss of large stores.

The Raika people have been herding camels in Rajasthan for centuries. But their traditional way of life is now under threat. A German NGO is helping Raika sustain their livelihood.

If we want to stop climate change, we have to cut carbon emissions. That much is clear. Yet the Philippines still rely heavily on coal power plants. And the government plans on building many more. Environmentalists are trying stop that - and the Catholic church has joined the fight.

The Caribbean coast is awash with tons of foul-smelling seaweed, causing problems for the environment and tourism. Could a protective barrier in the sea help? That's one of the solutions being proposed.

China wants bicycles to once again be the main way to get around. Rental bikes are already a lucrative business in the country. Many entrepreneurs are trying to cash in, but the impacts aren't always green.

The air quality in Hanoi will leave you breathless, and not in a good way. Now the city is actively tackling the problem, banning scooters and motorcycles by 2030. It's also investing heavily in public transport.