The number of lobbyists from fossil fuel and petrochemical industries at the UN talks on plastic pollution has increased by 37%. This rise signals intensified efforts to influence the outcome and poses a threat to any agreement limiting plastic production. Imbalances in representation and access raise concerns about the treaty's effectiveness, with corporate interests holding outsized sway.
Global airlines are resisting new EU rules to monitor non-carbon emissions from flights, arguing that the methodology is immature and the impacts are difficult to calculate accurately. The airline industry wants participation to be optional and limited to intra-EU flights, while environmentalists believe this would obscure aviation's true climate impact. The outcome will shape aviation's emission reduction efforts.
Two new studies investigate the potential of injecting stratospheric aerosols to delay the collapse of the West Antarctic ice sheet. Experts suggest a limited time window for effective geoengineering and emphasize the need for urgent research and more information to inform leaders. Geoengineering could provide valuable time to reduce emissions, but uncertainties and governance issues remain.
The UN report uncovers massive untapped e-waste reserves, with over 7,000 metric tons of neodymium and millions of copper and aluminium discarded annually. The demand for these critical metals is set to soar due to renewable energy and EV expansion. Transitioning to closed-loop circular models is crucial for sustainability. EU policies aim to close supply gaps.
Societies have historically relied on technology to solve challenges, from the wheel aiding agriculture to nuclear weapons during the Cold War. However, complex issues like environmental sustainability and conflict resolution require holistic, social, and political approaches. Decarbonization and technological advancements, while important, may not address the underlying political dimensions of these challenges.
Europe's clean energy lag behind the US and China is attributed to underinvestment and policy shortcomings, risking energy security and over-reliance on Russian gas. International Energy Agency head, Fatih Birol, urges a major transformation through substantial investments in renewables, nuclear, and efficiency, emphasizing the necessity for decisive action to address the energy crisis.
Generative AI models, like ChatGPT, are pushing boundaries but pose energy challenges. Data centers, using 2% of global electricity, face soaring demand due to AI. This strains renewable capacity and may increase costs. Making GPUs more efficient helps, but urgent policy is needed to balance AI expansion with energy sustainability. (Word count: 50)
Around 10% of global residential property value, including inland homes, is at risk from climate change impacts. By 2050, climate impacts and emissions reduction measures could reduce housing values by $25 trillion. The financial system, property markets, and individuals face enormous costs, and effective policies are needed to incentivize resilience investments.
The global threat of antimicrobial resistance is a growing concern. World leaders will address this at the upcoming UN General Assembly in September. Drawing on the success of the Montreal Protocol, it is crucial to establish an independent panel to provide support, gather evidence, and facilitate discussions to combat antimicrobial resistance effectively.
The Ocean Cleanup has achieved a major milestone with System 03, capturing record-breaking amounts of plastic waste from the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. This system, equipped with advanced technology, surpassed previous records and garnered widespread support. The monumental achievement serves as a beacon of hope and reinforces the belief in overcoming environmental challenges through innovation and commitment.
The Trash Economy 