Broadband and economic development
Access to and the speed and reliability of broadband infrastructure is one of the key institutional factors that impact on economic development. The lack of an affordable and cost-effective broadband network can be a huge barrier to economic growth especially in an age where companies in many rich countries are looking to outsource their back office and call centre services to countries where operating costs are lowest. The 2009 UNCTAD Information Economy Report provides a wealth of background information on the global digital divide.
According to the latest report, businesses and consumers are 200 times more likely to have access to broadband in developed countries than in the poorest Least Developed Countries (LDCs). And the monthly cost of broadband access varies to an incredible degree - from over $1,300 a month in Burkina Faso, the Central African Republic to less than $13 in Egypt.
read more...»Finding affordable food
This short BBC article reports on a new study from the World Cancer Research Fund which claims that it is possible to eat a healthy diet even when family budgets are stretched close to breaking point.
“Increases in food prices, and pressures on the family budget because of continuing economic problems, may prompt people to buy less fruit and vegetables because they think they are too expensive and are worried about wastage.”
Canny consumers can save money by buying fruits and vegetables in season, making good use of price offers and searching for cheaper frozen vegetables and canned fruit.
The article links to some important AS micro issues:
read more...»
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