Environment

18 May 2009

by Philip Stevens

Economic growth is an absolute pre-requisite for improved health. One study has shown that if economic growth in the developing world had been a mere 1.5% higher in the 1980s, at least 500,000 child deaths could have been prevented.

14 April

Deepak Lal

Which theoretical perspective provides the best explanation for the global financial crisis? Some answers were provided at a recent special meeting of the Mont Pelerin Society I organised as its new President (see Mont Pelerin).

by 'Abidin Muhriz

Unfortunately it often takes tragedy to galvanise action, and in the wake of the terrible landslide in Bukit Antarabangsa last week the urgency of re-examining our lackadaisical attitude to the environment and the content and enforcement of building regulations cannot be overstated. Sadly a political blame fest began almost immediately; a repellent display insulting residents who lost their loved ones, homes and livelihoods. Yet there were also accounts of heroism, like my friend’s neighbour who, rather than instantly fleeing the scene, banged on neighbours’ doors to alert them of the impending disaster. If not for him, many more might have perished. As the victims pick up the pieces let us hope that the politicians work with the engineers, geologists, meteorologists, architects and other experts to formulate guidelines and regulations for developers and buyers alike; and set clear areas of responsibility between federal, state and local bodies and incentivise them appropriately.