As climate change continues to impact our planet, transitioning to renewable energy sources like solar power (PV) has never been more urgent. Not only do these sources help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but they also enhance energy independence. This is where the SUNRISE project comes in.
As Bulgaria continues to embrace renewable energy (RE) solutions, the differences in financial readiness, awareness, and willingness to invest between neighborhoods highlight the need for tailored approaches to energy transition. A recent assessment of two multifamily residential buildings—one in Zaharna Fabrika and another in Knyazhevo—provides valuable insights into the factors influencing RE adoption and the steps needed to bridge existing gaps. The research is part of the SUNRISE project.
Lithuania has made significant strides toward achieving a climate-neutral economy by 2050, with renewable energy (RE) at the heart of this transition. However, while the country continues to expand its RE capacity, some key challenges remain—especially for homeowners in multi-family buildings. A recent study highlights how legal, financial, and informational barriers are slowing the adoption of small-scale renewable energy solutions, despite a growing interest in energy efficiency upgrades. The research is part of the SUNRISE project.
Each year on International Women’s Day, the world celebrates the achievements, resilience and leadership of women everywhere. It is also a moment to reflect on the barriers that still limit opportunities for many women and girls.
This International Women’s Day, we celebrate the stories of women whose lives have been transformed through perseverance, partnership and the power of a safe place to call home.
When Cyclone Freddy swept through southern Malawi in March 2023, entire communities were left without homes and livelihoods, and many lives were lost. The torrential rains triggered devastating floods and landslides, destroying homes and displacing thousands of families overnight. Their story is a reminder that recovery after disaster often begins with a home – opening the door to resilience for families and communities alike.
In many parts of the world, the word home evokes safety. But for millions of families living in substandard housing, home is where some of the greatest health risks begin. From respiratory diseases to heat-related illnesses and vector‑borne illnesses like malaria, unsafe housing conditions expose low‑income families to dangers that no one should have to endure.
This World Malaria Day, Habitat for Humanity recognizes the life‑saving power of healthy housing, because preventing malaria requires a holistic approach, where mainstream tools like nets and medicine work hand in hand with strong walls, secure roofs, good ventilation and the dignity of a home that protects the people who live in it.
This year, Mihaela moved into her new house, a home that she helped build alongside volunteers during Habitat for Humanity Romania’s Hope Build, a unique volunteer house-building event. In just five days in June 2024, volunteers from companies and the community came together for a so-called Hope Build. This project changed the lives of two households forever. One of these families is the Albisteanu family, led by a mother whose strength and resilience have carried her family through years of hardship, Mihaela Albisteanu. “I can’t believe it! The children will have their own space, just for them.”
Mihaela’s excitement rings out as she shares her feelings in a video from the build.
A home is where you spend Christmas, where you sleep through the night without cold air slipping in through broken windows. A home is where homework happens at the kitchen table, where families can cook, rest, feel safe, and dream together.
Without decent housing, everything becomes harder. Health, education, stability, and even relationships suffer. That is why Hope Builds in Romania, unique volunteer house-building events, are so important.
Over the past year, Habitat for Humanity worked alongside volunteers who contributed nearly 42,000 hours’ worth of time, skills and energy to improve housing conditions in communities across Africa. Today, we highlight how volunteering continues to shape individuals, strengthen community connections, and inspire long-term civic engagement.