The Weekly Tradecast by UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD)

• 141. The role of nuclear energy in a sustainable future

  As the world moves toward a more sustainable future, nuclear energy is back in the spotlight. While wind and solar power are key to reducing carbon emissions, their intermittent nature presents challenges. Could nuclear energy provide a stable, low-carbon alternative? UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) economist Claudia Contreras joins The Weekly Tradecast to explore nuclear energy’s role in the global energy transition. She discusses its benefits, including reliability and efficiency, as well as its risks – radioactive waste, safety concerns and geopolitical challenges. Tune in to learn whether nuclear power has a place in the energy mix of the future.

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• 140. Fast fashion’s hidden cost: Who really pays the price?

  From microplastics polluting our oceans to carcinogenic chemicals and mountains of waste in landfills, the fashion industry’s environmental footprint is growing as quickly as the trends it churns out. As shoppers chase ever-changing styles, can fashion ever be truly sustainable? In the latest episode of The Weekly Tradecast, we’re joined by Runa Raay – fashion environmentalist, designer, and activist – to explore the high environmental and human toll of fast fashion. With insight into everything from synthetic fibres and forever chemicals to global supply chains and discarded clothes in developing countries, Runa challenges us to think before we buy. Join us to discuss what it takes to stitch together a sustainable fashion future.

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• 139. Rethinking investment: Making money work for development

  What is the real value of investment in today’s world? From green energy to public infrastructure, investment has the power to reshape economies and drive meaningful change. But in a world facing climate crises, growing debt, and fragile growth, how can we make sure that capital is flowing where it’s truly needed? In this Weekly Tradecast, we speak with Nan Li Collins, director of UN Trade and Development’s (UNCTAD) division on investment and enterprise. With decades of experience across the public and private sectors, she unpacks the global investment landscape – what’s working, what’s broken and what needs to change. Join us to discuss how smarter, fairer investment can help build a sustainable future for all. To explore the topic further, see UNCTAD's World Investment Report 2025: International investment in the digital economy.

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• 138. Deep sea mining: Necessary innovation or environmental risk?

  As the race for critical minerals heats up, deep sea mining is being hailed by some as a path to a greener future – and condemned by others as a major threat to marine life. In this episode of The Weekly Tradecast, UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) legal officer David Vivas explores the legal, environmental and economic sides of this controversial topic. From marine jurisdictions to the seabed's untapped riches, he shares expert insight into why we may not be ready for this new frontier. Is this truly the key to clean energy, or just another environmental risk? Listen now.

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• 137. Unlocking hemp's potential: A path to sustainable growth and development

  Hemp is an environmentally friendly and versatile plant used in various industries, from textiles and ropes to medicine and construction. Yet, this wonder plant has not reached its full potential, partly because it belongs to the cannabis family. While industrial hemp is not an intoxicating plant, perceptions that hemp is a drug have kept it controversial in many countries. In the latest episode of The Weekly Tradecast, UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) economist Marco Fugazza explores how hemp can support sustainable growth in developing countries and contribute to a greener future. Tune in for insights into how hemp could help shape a greener and more sustainable future for global trade.

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