Collaboration. Innovation. Global Impact
Empowering Solutions for a Sustainable Future
CRETEGI unites industries and communities to solve global challenges in trade, energy, food security, and sustainable development. Together, we shape a better tomorrow.
0k+
Transformative Excellence
Collaborating with policymakers, industries, and innovators to tackle the world’s most pressing challenges.
Our Focus Areas
Our work focuses on four key areas critical to economic resilience and development.
- Energy
- Advancing clean energy transitions and policy frameworks for a sustainable future.
View Papers- Food Security
- Researching resilient food systems to ensure access, availability, and affordability.
View Papers- Green Industrial Policy
- Developing strategies for sustainable industrialization and economic transformation.
View Papers- Trade
- Analyzing trade policies, regional integration, and global market trends.
View Papers
Tagline
Latest Research
View AllLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt.
research doc
A review of recent advances in engineering bacteria for enhanced CO2 capture and utilization
Anthropogenic CO2 emissions drive global warming and climate change. Conventional CO2 capture technologies often prove ineffective and environmentally harmful. Biological CO2 conversion, particularly using bacteria, offers a promising alternative due to its selectivity and adaptability. This review examines recent advances in engineering bacteria to utilize CO2 and other one-carbon compounds. It covers microbial CO2 fixation pathways, engineered bacteria, genetic and metabolic engineering approaches, and the production of value-added products (biofuels, pharmaceuticals, bioplastics) from CO2. While cultivation costs pose an economic challenge, genetic engineering offers potential for increased production yields. This review contributes to the development of sustainable, industrial-scale CO2 mitigation technologies using bacteria-based capture and utilization.
research doc
Empowering communities beyond wires: Renewable energy microgrids and the impacts on energy poverty and socio-economic outcomes
This systematic review explores how renewable energy microgrids alleviate energy poverty and improve socio-economic outcomes in underserved communities. It highlights their role in enhancing livelihoods, economic growth, food security, health, and education while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Despite benefits, challenges like high initial costs, operational complexities, and regulatory barriers persist. The study emphasizes the need for innovative financing, supportive policies, and community engagement to maximize microgrid potential. Aligning with SDGs, microgrids offer a sustainable pathway to broader development goals.
research doc
The ripple effects of climate change on agricultural sustainability and food security in Africa
Climate change impacts food security in developing countries, lowering agricultural output, disrupting supply chains, and widening the gap between rich and poor. This review investigates climate change's consequences for African food insecurity within the context of environmental degradation. It examines the complex demands on food security systems (availability, accessibility, utilization, stability) under changing climatic conditions. The review highlights farm production's vulnerability to temperature, precipitation, and weather pattern changes. It also explores factors shaping food insecurity: population growth, poverty, weak infrastructure, and inadequate early warning systems. Climate change affects food prices, availability, and income inequality, potentially leading to social unrest. Vulnerable groups (impoverished, elderly, disabled) face increased risks, with women facing additional gender inequalities. Comprehensive strategies are needed to address health disparities and consider vulnerable subgroups alongside broader food security measures in the face of climate change.
research doc
Beyond compliance: evaluating the role of environmental, social and governance disclosures in enhancing firm value and performance
This study investigates the impact of ESG (environmental, social, and governance) disclosures on firm value and profitability across industries. Using the PRISMA framework, 52 studies from Scopus and Web of Science were analyzed. Results show varied outcomes: food and retail sectors benefit from strong ESG disclosures, while utilities focus more on social metrics. Developing economies often show negative or insignificant ESG-financial performance links, and agriculture benefits from governance disclosures. The findings highlight the need for industry-specific ESG approaches and policies to improve disclosure quality and transparency.
research doc
Pricing the future: unveiling the effects of carbon pricing on socio-economic outcomes and energy poverty
This systematic review, following PRISMA guidelines, explores the impact of carbon pricing mechanisms on energy poverty and socio-economic outcomes. Analyzing articles from 1984–2023, it identifies nine themes, including renewable energy transition and governance challenges. Findings highlight carbon pricing’s role in energy security and socio-economic development, aligning with SDGs 1, 2, 4, 7, and 11. Key recommendations include strategic revenue allocation for social programs, renewable energy investments, and rural electrification to alleviate energy poverty. The study emphasizes the interconnectedness of environmental policies and development goals, offering insights for policymakers.
research doc
Amplifying climate resilience: The impact of social protection, social cohesion, and social capital on public support for climate change action
Traditional climate strategies often neglect social cohesion. This study examines how social protection and community unity enhance climate resilience and support for decarbonization. Using quantitative (scientometric/bibliometric) and qualitative (content analysis) methods, it analyzes social protection programs, community cohesion, and public attitudes toward climate action. Results show a strong link: cohesive communities are more committed to climate action, engaging in sustainable practices, information sharing, and mutual support. Policymakers can leverage social networks, civic engagement, and safety nets to build public support for decarbonization. Community engagement and inclusivity are crucial for collective climate action and successful transitions to low-carbon societies.
research doc
Carbon transparency in global supply chains: The mediating role of institutional and innovative capacity
This bibliometric study explores carbon transparency in global supply chains and the mediating roles of institutional and innovative capacities. Analyzing 116 documents (2001–2023), it identifies three phases: foundational sustainable manufacturing (2001–2010), practical implementation (2011–2015), and institutional pressures and innovation (2016–2020). The latest phase (2021–2023) emphasizes innovation in developing countries, driven by climate change awareness, SDGs, and green economy transitions. The study highlights developing nations' commitment to carbon transparency, with insights from Brazil and Malaysia, underscoring the role of technology in sustainable supply chains.
Tagline
Latest Policy Briefs
View AllLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt.
policy brief
Agricultural Import Bans in Botswana: Evaluating Macroeconomic Trade-offs and SACU Revenue Implications Amid Criticism of ‘Bad Economics’
This policy brief analyzes Botswana’s horticultural import ban (2022–2025), aimed at boosting local agriculture and reducing import dependency. While benefiting farmers, the ban has raised food prices, fueled inflation, and disrupted SACU trade dynamics. Recommendations include investing in irrigation, adopting advanced agricultural technologies, building resilient market linkages, and revisiting trade policies to balance protectionism with regional commitments. These measures are vital for ensuring long-term agricultural success, fiscal stability, and economic diversification.
policy brief
Challenges and Opportunities for Just Energy Transition Partnerships in Africa
This policy brief examines Just Energy Transition Partnerships (JETPs) between Africa and the International Partners Group, focusing on social equity in decarbonization. While JETPs aim to modernize grids and advance renewable energy, the social dimension lags behind technical and economic aspects. A South Africa case study highlights progress but reveals challenges like weak governance, insufficient funding, rising debt, and limited clean energy access for low-income communities. To ensure a just transition, JETPs must prioritize inclusivity, minimize impacts on vulnerable groups, and deliver equitable outcomes.
policy brief
Leaving No One Behind: A Policy Blueprint For Eradicating Hunger In Sub-saharan Africa
Hunger persists in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), affecting millions with food insecurity and malnutrition, hindering sustainable development. This challenge is compounded by climate change and socioeconomic inequalities, creating vulnerabilities. Key issues include high undernourishment rates, childhood stunting and wasting, vulnerability to shocks, and regional disparities. Addressing this requires sustainable agriculture, social protection, strengthened food systems, climate change action, and gender equality promotion.
policy brief
A pandemic preparedness toolkit for the African governments and relevant institutions. Public Policy in Africa Initiative
This document emphasizes the need for a pandemic preparedness toolkit in Africa, addressing the continent’s inconsistent COVID-19 response. It highlights the opportunity to learn from the pandemic’s challenges and develop tools to support governments in crisis management. The proposed toolkit aims to provide evidence-based decision-making resources, communication strategies, and actionable insights to help African governments and institutions effectively navigate future pandemics.
policy brief
The impact of COVID-19 pandemic on education, livelihoods and food security status: Policy implications for Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Public Policy in Africa Initiative
This policy paper addresses the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on sub-Saharan Africa, emphasizing the need for improved healthcare, education, food security, and livelihoods. It highlights vulnerabilities like fragile health systems, low testing budgets, and misinformation, which have fueled distrust. The paper calls for coordinated efforts among stakeholders to enhance communication, strengthen supply chains, support agriculture, and reduce infection rates. Recommendations focus on trade, market access, tourism, education, and healthcare measures to mitigate the pandemic’s effects and build resilience in SSA.