Computing and Data Sciences Improve What We Know About Wildfires and How to Fight Them

This article examines how Berkeley researchers apply data science and computing to address the challenges of wildfire prediction and response. By analysing satellite imagery and environmental data through machine learning, they build models to forecast fire risk and guide emergency response. The research contributes to developing more precise early warning systems, supporting both policy decisions and public safety. The article underscores how integrating environmental science with digital tools enhances our understanding of wildfires and strengthens efforts in prevention, preparedness, and resilience in the face of climate-related disasters.

Impact-investing in the Healthcare in Terms of the New Socially Responsible State Investment Policy

This article examines the implementation of impact investing in healthcare, contrasting it with traditional investment mechanisms, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic’s disruptive impact. It argues that impact investing is a valuable tool for economic recovery and development through a socially responsible state investment policy. The authors assess current public investment projects in healthcare and propose that a lack of standardized transparency, measurement, and regulation hinders the growth of impact investing.

Social Bonds for Sustainable Development: a Human Rights Perspective on Impact Investing

This article analyses the human rights implications of impact investing, focusing specifically on social bonds. It proposes a framework for evaluating human rights factors in impact investing and applies it to the social bond market, finding current standards inadequate. The paper suggests reforms to enhance investor assessment, external assurance, and impact-maximizing leverage, advocating for stronger integration of human rights considerations within sustainable finance and the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals.

Startups are Now Helping Farmers by Getting Into Precision Farming

This article explores how agri-tech startups in India are adopting precision farming techniques to support smallholder farmers. Using technologies like IoT, satellite imagery, and big data analytics, these startups offer tailored insights on irrigation, crop cycles, and soil health. Such data-driven solutions enhance productivity, reduce resource waste, and support sustainability in rural areas. The article illustrates how digital transformation in agriculture fosters innovation, improves livelihoods, and empowers farmers by giving them access to real-time decision-making tools and climate-smart practices in the rapidly evolving Indian agricultural landscape.

Impact Risk Management in Impact Investing: How Impact Investing Organizations Adopt Control Mechanisms to Manage Their Impact Risk

This study explores how impact investing organizations manage impact risk by adopting control mechanisms. It examines the inter-organizational relationship between impact investors and investee social enterprises, highlighting the moderating role of social mission. Findings suggest that due diligence, sector specialisation, and communication enhance investment likelihood. The article emphasizes that, unlike traditional venture capital, impact investing effectiveness hinges on the investee’s ability to create social value, underscoring the unique dynamics of this relationship.

Creating a Better Economy with Data Science

This article explores how data science can reshape economic systems to be more inclusive and sustainable. It discusses the role of data-driven insights in identifying systemic inequities, optimizing resource distribution, and improving policy design. Case examples illustrate how social impact organizations are leveraging analytics to address labour market disparities and design equitable economic interventions. The piece advocates for a shift towards evidence-based, participatory economic planning through the integration of data tools.

Impact Investing: the Performance Realities

This whitepaper examines the financial performance of impact investments, aiming to dispel the misconception that prioritizing social or environmental impact inherently leads to lower financial returns. It analyses various impact investment strategies and provides evidence that these investments can achieve competitive, market-rate returns across different asset classes and sectors. The paper highlights the growing sophistication of the impact investing market and suggests that robust financial performance alongside measurable positive impact is achievable, encouraging a broader adoption of impact-driven investment approaches among investors and institutions.

Impact Investing as a Form of Lobbying and Its Corporate-governance Effects

This paper examines impact investing as a form of lobbying and its implications for corporate governance. It explores how impact investors might influence corporate behavior and decision-making to achieve social or environmental objectives. The study analyses the mechanisms through which such influence is exerted and its potential effects on the governance structures and practices of investee companies.

Simba: AI for Asiatic Lion Conservation

SIMBA is an AI-powered conservation tool introduced by the Gujarat Forest Department to support the protection of Asiatic lions. The system uses facial recognition and data analytics to track individual lions, monitor health patterns, and respond swiftly to threats. By leveraging artificial intelligence, SIMBA enhances data-driven wildlife management, enabling timely interventions and long-term planning. This initiative highlights how emerging technologies can strengthen biodiversity conservation, support ecological research, and improve the effectiveness of wildlife protection programmes in India, especially in ecologically sensitive habitats like the Gir Forest.

Healthcare in India -changing the Financing Strategy

This article examines the evolving financing strategy for healthcare in India, discussing the shifts from traditional models to more innovative approaches. It explores the role of social insurance and increased investment in the health sector to improve access and quality of care. The authors analyse the challenges and opportunities in reforming healthcare finance, advocating for policy changes that can lead to more equitable and sustainable health outcomes across the country.
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