The global race to become a leader in the manufacturing of green technologies is well underway. Many developed countries are pumping huge amounts of money into their respective green economies. How could this influence green economic growth in the Global South? Rebecca Bertram reports.
Archives
100% renewables: the way forward to fix Europe’s energy and climate issues
When confronted with energy price explosions and the climate crisis, the EU cannot waste time and money on castles in the air. Instead of betting on unproven solutions far from market introduction, such as small modular reactors and the broad deployment of all kinds of carbon removal technologies, the EU should build on what works right now. Renewable energy sources have proven to be by far the most relevant and reliable solution. In our new 100% Renewable Action Plan for the next European Commission, the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung European Union and Environmental Action Germany (Deutsche Umwelthilfe) describe what needs to happen after the 2024 European elections to harvest the benefits of renewables. Jörg Mühlenhoff reports.
Why Mexico is lagging behind in the energy transition
Mexico could be a renewable energy champion yet wind and solar make up only about ten percent of the country’s electricity mix. Rebecca Bertram has taken a closer look to find out why Mexico’s energy transition is lagging behind.
The US gets serious about climate protection: Biden’s IRA at one
In August 2022, the US Congress passed the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), ultimately the Biden administration’s climate protection package. The investment into the hundreds of billions was billed as a “moonshot moment,” and applauded almost everywhere. Let’s take a look at what’s happened thus far. Paul Hockenos reports.
Why Latin America’s mining industry is embracing renewables
The Latin American mining industry has historically been a cornerstone of the region’s economy, providing essential resources for global development. However, it has faced mounting criticism due to its significant environmental impact. Recognizing the need for change, many mining companies in Latin America are beginning to take proactive steps to mitigate their environmental footprint. Rebecca Bertram reports.
Hikers and bikers beware: Climate breakdown has hit Europe’s Alps hard
Central Europe is among the fastest warming locations on Earth. In the Alps, this has ramifications for nature, outdoorspeople, and tourist infrastructure. Paul Hockenos reports.
Challenges to Latin America’s geothermal boom
Geothermal energy prospects remain largely untapped in many parts of the world. Latin America with its numerous volcanos and seismic activities along the Pacific Ocean has a particularly high potential to develop this renewable resource. What is holding it back? Rebecca Bertram reports.
Climate protection? Yes please, but not in my cellar!
Opinion polls show Germans worried about the climate crisis and in favor of more climate action. The fallout of global warming is one of their most pressing concerns, indeed as it is across Europe. And yet, when it comes to modifying lifestyles or paying higher prices to curb emissions, most say they’re not willing, or only as much as it doesn’t sting. Paul Hockenos reports. Read More
Sustainable and climate-resilient agriculture in Uganda through renewable energy resources
African countries together are responsible for only 4% of global carbon emissions, but will suffer heavily from the consequences of climate change. In Uganda, agriculture is already hit by the changing climate, prompting loud calls for a switch to renewable energy sources in the all important sector. Sarah Helen Rüdenauer gives the lowdown. Read More
Rivers can be Europe’s first line of defense against climate breakdown
The recent floods in France, Belgium, the UK and Germany remind us again of the danger of the climate crisis. Europe’s rivers however can be key components of both climate mitigation and adaptation. Cleaning them up and restoring them is an expensive undertaking – but it’s worth the price. Paul Hockenos reports. Read More