What will it take for society to shift to more systemic, less linear, thinking? The devastating fires in LA will probably present a lot of opportunities for that.
From High Country News this morning, for example: Wildfires are too much for municipal water systems. In Los Angeles, firefighters tried anyway.
Water systems aren’t designed for unlimited demands during wildland-urban interface fires.
The constraints on water for putting out fires feels like a very tangible manifestation of concepts from systems thinking like stocks, flows, feedback systems, boundaries in our maps of a system and key leverage points for changing that system. (all famously discussed by Donella Meadows)
After the fires are extinguished, by water or time, the insurance market, now facing government intervention like a year-long ban on policy cancelations, will send massive ripples across the US economy and socio political landscape.
Systems thinking is of massive importance, we're seeing it pop up in more and more places (like in the required community benefit plans for the massive loans for battery factories from the US Department of Energy)
I expect we'll look back at this time in history and be shocked by the absence of system thinking our institutions exhibit; so long stuck on linear, authoritarian, myopic analysis, now with a rising chorus of howling trolls online calling for more of the same, at unfathomable expense to people, the earth, and society.
Let's keep working on that shift. Below you'll find a round-up of today's updates from organizations, email subscribers get three personalized recommendations for opportunities to advance this much-needed shift.
-Marshall Kirkpatrick
Earth Catalyst: We'll support your work with our experience, network, and technology
Today and every day, our system scans over 1,000 green tech and sustainability organizations for updates. Below, you'll find:
A Visual of the Day
A digest-style Table of Contents for 176 selected updates from around the green tech and sustainability world
(If you subscribe by email) 3 personalized selections just for you and your work
Did a friend forward you this newsletter? Welcome! You can subscribe here and get your own personal recommendations each day.
Visual of the Day
Greenland's Vanishing Ice
A dramatic aerial view of a melting glacier in Greenland, where meltwater streams carve through the glacial outwash plain, highlighting the accelerating impacts of climate change in the Arctic. According to The Guardian, this glacial retreat is part of a larger pattern where Greenland's ice sheet is losing an average of 30 million tonnes of ice per hour, a crisis that is driving new geopolitical tensions as nations vie for access to newly exposed resources and shipping routes in the region.
Today's Updates
Table of Contents
Agriculture (5 stories) - DAS Solar's mountain-friendly panels, ReGen Brands' regenerative agriculture program, and African cassava initiatives reshape farming amid climate challenges and digital transformation in Nigeria
Carbon (7 stories) - Record-breaking 0.25°C global rise as Climeworks leads carbon capture talks at Davos; permafrost thaw accelerates while US emissions drop only 0.2%
Circular (5 stories) - CET's waste reduction archive launches as UK explores incineration benefits; bagasse bowls offer plastic alternative amid microplastic health concerns
Ecosystems (19 stories) - Bighorn sheep populations double in parks, while WRI's Global Forest Watch tracks ecosystems as peatlands face threats; Tanzania pioneers leopard vocal tracking amid Victoria's kangaroo habitat crisis
Efficiency (6 stories) - Data centers to rival aluminum industry's power use by 2030; California, Maryland advance building electrification; Getty Center tests fire systems; Midea launches efficient heat pump water heater
Finance (8 stories) - BlackRock exits UN climate pact as C-PACE programs expand; Peace Renewable Energy Credits and $31.5T green funding needs drive global investment landscape
Grid (11 stories) - Hydrostor's $1.76B DOE-backed air storage project leads grid investments, while Constellation's $30B Calpine deal and Deep Fission's micronuclear plans reshape power generation landscape amid MISO and PJM market reforms
Indigenous (18 stories) - Fire exchanges across 8 states unite Indigenous knowledge with modern practices, while UNDP Equator Prize gathers 31 communities for environmental leadership; new conservation area established in Bolivia's Pando region
Industry (10 stories) - Siemens launches 52MW electrolyzer in Denmark, RENA claims TOPCon cost advantage over Chinese competitors, while University of Michigan develops CO2-based cement and brain simulation achieves 86B neuron milestone
Policy (52 stories) - US Treasury finalizes $3/kg hydrogen tax credits; NY and CA mandate oil company climate payments; $12.5B allocated for federal environmental programs amid pre-election policy shifts
Renewables (19 stories) - Record EU power share hits 48% as PERC modules maintain market dominance; major expansions from Alteo Nyrt, Fortescue, and Waaree Energies; breakthroughs in geothermal lithium and solar storage from Vulcan Energy and JinkoSolar
Transport (16 stories) - Tesla hits record Q4 sales amid profit concerns, DOT funds 11.5K charging ports, GOGO's Uganda e-bikes thrive, NASA develops hybrid aircraft, while NYC congestion pricing and Formula E innovations advance clean transport
Agriculture
DAS Solar's mountain-friendly panels, ReGen Brands' regenerative agriculture program, and African cassava initiatives reshape farming amid climate challenges and digital transformation in Nigeria
DAS Solar Ventures into the New Frontier of Mountain PV Development (TaiyangNews) - Chinese solar firm DAS Solar's new flexible mounting system for mountain installations reduces land use by 25% while enduring extreme winds of 46 m/s.
ReGen Brands unveils a three-fold approach to boosting demand for regenerative agriculture through CPGs (AgFunderNews) - ReGen Brands launches a three-part ecosystem featuring trade, research, and funding initiatives to validate and support consumer brands committed to regenerative agriculture practices.
UK faces broccoli and cauliflower shortage this spring (The Guardian) - Unseasonably mild winter and European flooding have triggered early harvests, threatening UK's broccoli and cauliflower supplies this spring.
Boosting Africa’s food security: Unlocking the potential of cassava and underutilized legumes for a resilient future (CGIAR) - Scientists promote cassava and native legumes as wheat alternatives, aiming to cut Africa's $15 billion annual food imports through local processing.
Ogun State drives agricultural transformation with digital registration initiative (CGIAR) - Ogun State has registered 160,000 farmers and value chain actors in a digital database as part of Nigeria's World Bank-funded agricultural modernization drive.
Carbon
Record-breaking 0.25°C global rise as Climeworks leads carbon capture talks at Davos; permafrost thaw accelerates while US emissions drop only 0.2%
2024 was officially the hottest year on Earth (Citizens' Climate Lobby) - Global temperatures soared 0.25°C above 2016's previous record in 2024, fueled by a combination of El Niño patterns and continued fossil fuel emissions.
Climate Forcings (EnergyCentral) - Analysis reveals greenhouse gases, led by CO2, drove Earth's 1.3°C temperature increase since 1850, with natural factors having negligible impact.
Climeworks at WEF’s Annual Meeting 2025 (Climeworks) - Carbon removal firm Climeworks will join global leaders at WEF's Davos summit to discuss scaling solutions for worldwide carbon capture initiatives.
Melting Permafrost, Rising Risks: POW Science Alliance member Jenny Watts on the Rapid Changes in the Arctic (Protect Our Winters) - Arctic permafrost is thawing at unprecedented rates across Alaska and Siberia, unleashing trapped greenhouse gases that endanger both global climate patterns and indigenous populations.
More musings for the new year (WattCarbon) - Energy experts propose renaming Energy Attribute Certificates to reflect their broader role in measuring environmental and infrastructure benefits beyond power generation.
US emissions barely declined in 2024 amid rising power demand, fuel use (Canary Media) - US greenhouse gas emissions fell just 0.2% last year as increased electricity demand and transport fuel consumption negated the impact of record clean energy deployment.
World’s record heat is worsening air pollution and health in Global South (Mongabay) - Soaring global temperatures in 2024 are amplifying air pollution through heat domes, wildfires and dust storms, with devastating health impacts across India, Brazil and Nigeria.
Circular
CET's waste reduction archive launches as UK explores incineration benefits; bagasse bowls offer plastic alternative amid microplastic health concerns
Burning waste is a dirty way to generate power – but it’s the least bad alternative to England’s broken recycling system (The Conversation) - Waste incineration for power generation in England emits 200kg less CO2 per tonne than landfill decomposition, offering a pragmatic solution amid failing recycling systems.
Connecticut Newsletter Archive (CET) - Connecticut nonprofit CET unveils digital archive offering resources on food waste, energy efficiency and climate solutions, reaching thousands of businesses and residents statewide.
New review highlights human health risks from microplastic exposure (NRDC) - Scientists warn microplastics may damage human digestive, reproductive, and respiratory systems, according to 31 studies examining exposure in both rodents and humans.
The Best Disposable Bowls for Soups, Salads, and Desserts (EcoSoul Home) - Eco-friendly bowls crafted from sugarcane bagasse and palm leaves provide a microwave-safe, fully compostable option for serving both hot and cold dishes.
The UK is surprisingly short of water – but more reservoirs aren’t the answer (The Conversation) - UK water experts advocate for reduced consumption and increased recycling, noting Britons use 142 litres daily while only 1% of wastewater is reused nationally.
Ecosystems
Bighorn sheep populations double in parks, while WRI's Global Forest Watch tracks ecosystems as peatlands face threats; Tanzania pioneers leopard vocal tracking amid Victoria's kangaroo habitat crisis
A New Idea for National Parks: Leave Some of Them to the Animals (The Revelator) - Wildlife experts report bighorn sheep populations doubled in national parks during pandemic closures, sparking proposals to create permanent animal-only zones within park boundaries.
Being in Hot Water has a Whole New Meaning (Energy Central) - Ocean temperatures and a potential Atlantic current shutdown now pose catastrophic climate risks that extend far beyond atmospheric warming, scientists warn.
By razing trees for flood defenses, a Philippine city may have raised its risk (Mongabay) - A $144 million flood control project in Cagayan de Oro has cleared 26 hectares of protective vegetation, potentially leaving the Philippine city more vulnerable to future flooding.
California fires: 16 killed and 10,000 structures destroyed as blazes continue (The Guardian) - Wildfires raging across Los Angeles have claimed 16 lives, destroyed 10,000 structures, and forced 150,000 residents to evacuate as five separate blazes continue to spread.
Fire tornado spotted in Palisades blaze in California – video (The Guardian) - A rare fire tornado, also known as a fire whirl, was captured on video during the Palisades wildfire in California's San Fernando Valley.
Firefighting planes are dumping ocean water on the Los Angeles fires − why using saltwater is typically a last resort (The Conversation) - Amid freshwater shortages, Los Angeles firefighters have resorted to using ocean water to battle wildfires, despite risks of equipment damage and environmental concerns from salt contamination.
How Can Peatlands Fight Climate Change? (Dogwood Alliance) - Peatlands, which store 30% more carbon than forests despite covering just 3% of Earth's surface, face mounting threats while sheltering endangered species.
How pollinator gardens in the Rogue Valley support Oregon’s bees (Environment Oregon) - Communities across Oregon's Rogue Valley are planting pollinator gardens to restore bee habitats in areas devastated by the 2020 Almeda Fire.
LA wildfires: death toll rises to 24 as winds threaten further destruction (The Guardian) - Strengthening Santa Ana winds threaten more devastation across Los Angeles, where wildfires have claimed 24 lives and destroyed 1,800 structures, officials warn.
Los Angeles Fires Live Updates (Climate Desk) - Amid strong winds and low humidity, five wildfires sweep across Los Angeles, leaving firefighters struggling with dry hydrants as casualties mount.
Melting Glaciers In Antarctica May Encourage More Volcanic Activity (CleanTechnica) - Scientists warn that reduced pressure from melting Antarctic ice sheets could unleash more volcanic eruptions, potentially accelerating further ice loss across the continent.
Much of Australia enjoys the same Mediterranean climate as LA. When it comes to bushfires, that doesn’t bode well (The Conversation) - Climate experts warn that expanding tropical zones and decreasing rainfall are intensifying wildfire threats across Mediterranean regions in Southern California and Australia.
Much of Australia has the same climate as LA. When it comes to bushfires, that doesn’t bode well (RenewEconomy) - Climate experts warn that Los Angeles and major Australian cities share dangerous fire-prone conditions, with both regions experiencing expanding dry zones and decreasing winter rainfall.
Prairie dogs are in trouble as the climate warms (Yale Climate Connections) - Black-tailed prairie dogs are migrating northward from Texas and Arizona to Colorado as climate change and habitat loss render their traditional southern territories increasingly arid.
The Dichotomy of a Deadly Paradise—How Urban Sprawl and Climate Change Fuel LA’s Fires (InsideClimateNews) - Ferocious Santa Ana winds reaching 100mph have intensified Los Angeles County wildfires, destroying 12,000 structures and forcing 150,000 residents to flee Pacific Palisades and Altadena.
What You Need to Know About the Still-Burning L.A. Fires (Heatmap News) - Wildfires raging across Los Angeles County have claimed 24 lives and destroyed 12,000 structures across 40,000 acres as crews battle fierce Santa Ana winds.
How to Tell a Leopard from Its Roar (Nautilus) - Scientists in Tanzania achieve 93% accuracy in identifying individual leopards through vocal analysis, marking a significant advance in wildlife tracking methods.
Calls to halt kangaroo culling in Victoria’s Grampians after bushfires (The Guardian) - Wildlife groups demand pause on Victoria's 106,000-kangaroo annual cull after fires destroyed 76,000 hectares of Grampians habitat.
New alert system can track changes in grasslands, farms, temperate forests (Mongabay) - Scientists unveil a global monitoring system that tracks vegetation changes across three ecosystems at 30-meter resolution through WRI's Global Forest Watch platform.
Efficiency
Data centers to rival aluminum industry's power use by 2030; California, Maryland advance building electrification; Getty Center tests fire systems; Midea launches efficient heat pump water heater
AI and electricity: Are data centres the new aluminium smelters of demand – and how will we power them? (RenewEconomy) - Global data centres could match aluminium smelting's power demands by 2030, consuming 1,500 TWh annually as AI drives rapid expansion despite efficiency gains.
California Governor’s budget proposal maintains over $500 million for equitable building decarbonization (Building Decarb Coalition) - California's Governor proposes maintaining $500 million for building decarbonization efforts while adding $2 million to fund neighborhood-scale clean energy pilot projects.
How the UK can master heat pump retrofits: Five key lessons (BusinessGreen) - British experts have unveiled five essential strategies for installing heat pumps in social housing, with a focus on thorough planning and resident engagement.
LA fires could test Getty Center’s claim of being safest place to store artwork (The Guardian) - The Getty Center's $1 billion fire-protection system faces its greatest challenge as wildfires near the Los Angeles museum, home to masterpieces including Van Gogh's Irises.
Maryland Advances Building Decarbonization into 2025 (Building Decarb Central) - Maryland's governor signs executive orders requiring state building electrification and heat equipment standards, aiming to slash building emissions 20% by 2030.
More Headaches For Natural Gas: Next-Gen Heat Pump Water Heaters Are Here (CleanTechnica) - New heat pump water heater from Midea promises 75% energy savings over conventional models, operating efficiently between 59-114.8°F across North America.
Finance
BlackRock exits UN climate pact as C-PACE programs expand; Peace Renewable Energy Credits and $31.5T green funding needs drive global investment landscape
A Guide to How Small Businesses Contribute to Global Change (RyeStrategy) - Small businesses worldwide are leading sustainability efforts through carbon tracking and community outreach, with 73% now competing for major corporate contracts through green initiatives.
An opportunity for new climate finance innovations to expand energy access in fragile countries (Energy Peace Partners) - New research examines how Peace Renewable Energy Credits could attract diverse investors, including philanthropies and venture capitalists, to fund clean energy projects in conflict-affected nations.
BlackRock leaves net zero alliance as Wall Street runs from climate groups (Utility Dive) - Asset management giant BlackRock has withdrawn from a key UN climate initiative, joining other major U.S. banks retreating from environmental coalitions amid mounting Republican pressure.
C-PACE financing can make energy efficiency upgrades more affordable – if it’s available (Utility Dive) - Commercial building owners in 40 states can access energy upgrade financing at 7% interest over 30 years through C-PACE programs, despite varying local terms and availability.
Canadian companies are using social media to boost their ESG credibility, but investors aren’t buying it (The Conversation) - Despite a surge in ESG-focused social media content from Canadian firms, particularly heavy emitters, research shows no link between online messaging and investor confidence or carbon reduction achievements.
Driving Innovative Financial Support for Emerging Economies (IRENA) - Global renewable energy expansion demands $31.5 trillion by 2030, with developing nations seeking carbon credits and blended finance to achieve climate targets.
Hiring @ Keyframe: Fund and Investment Operations Lead (Keyframe Capital) - Fast-growing New York investment firm seeks operations lead to manage $1bn portfolio, offering competitive salary package between $125-175K.
This article proves how a holistic mix of fundamentals, macroeconomics, and technical insights can yield remarkably accurate CO2 price forecasts. (Energy Central) - Analyst achieves 94% accuracy in CO2 price predictions through integrated analysis of market fundamentals, macroeconomics, and technical indicators.
Grid
Hydrostor's $1.76B DOE-backed air storage project leads grid investments, while Constellation's $30B Calpine deal and Deep Fission's micronuclear plans reshape power generation landscape amid MISO and PJM market reforms
2025 could be a banner year for natural gas plant acquisitions: Enverus (Utility Dive) - Natural gas plant acquisitions hit $4.3B in 2024, with Constellation's $30B Calpine deal suggesting further market expansion in 2025.
Compressed air storage pioneer secures billion-dollar loan to deliver 8 hours back-up to California grid (RenewEconomy) - Canadian firm Hydrostor has secured a $1.76B US government loan for a 500MW/4GWh compressed air storage project that will provide 8-hour grid backup in California.
From vacant to vital: How commercial buildings could solve the power grid crisis (Utility Dive) - Commercial buildings could transform into decentralized energy hubs, generating and distributing power locally while cutting transmission losses by 5-6%, experts say.
Government eyes reforms to unlock smart energy data innovations (BusinessGreen) - The UK government has launched a consultation on reforms that would enable consumers to share energy data with third parties, potentially unlocking £2.7bn in smart energy savings.
How energy storage operators can harness recent advancements in battery aging simulation software (Renewable Energy World) - New battery aging simulation software enables storage operators to boost performance and predict degradation across multiple chemistries, extending system lifespans through enhanced modeling capabilities.
Massive underground air battery project lands $1.76B DOE award (Canary Media) - The Department of Energy has committed $1.76 billion to support Hydrostor's 4,000MWh underground compressed-air storage facility in California, set to begin operations by 2030.
Solar duck sends rooftop feed-in tariff close to zero. Is this the new normal? (RenewEconomy) - Victorian energy regulators propose cutting minimum solar feed-in tariffs by 99% to just 0.04c/kWh as midday solar generation floods the grid.
Reactors to Go Deep Underground to Power Data Centers (EnergyCentral) - Deep Fission Inc. aims to deploy 100 microreactors in mile-deep boreholes, generating 1.5GW of power for Endeavour Energy's data centers by 2029.
Best Practices for Building Tomorrow’s Power Leaders During Record Growth (POWER) - Experts warn of mounting workforce challenges as U.S. power sector grapples with record electricity demand while facing rapid expansion and an influx of inexperienced workers.
PJM all over again? Changes at MISO signal potential for high prices at upcoming capacity auction (RenewableEnergyWorld) - MISO's 2025 capacity auction could see soaring prices as new testing rules, reduced accreditation ratios, and demand curve changes take effect.
PJM’s capacity market proposal faces pushback from market monitor, generators (Utility Dive) - PJM's bid to mandate renewable resource participation in capacity auctions and modify offer caps draws criticism from monitors and generators over process and pricing issues.
Indigenous
Fire exchanges across 8 states unite Indigenous knowledge with modern practices, while UNDP Equator Prize gathers 31 communities for environmental leadership; new conservation area established in Bolivia's Pando region
2024: A Year of Growth and Connection for the Fire Networks (Fire Networks) - Fire management training expanded across eight U.S. states and three countries through 19 prescribed fire exchanges, bolstering community wildfire resilience and Indigenous partnerships.
Burning for Better in Southwest Montana (Fire Networks) - Montana agencies and landowners have united to conduct a 1,300-acre prescribed burn in Mill Gulch, aiming to protect sagebrush habitat and reduce wildfire threats.
Celebrating 10 Years of the Blog! (Fire Networks) - Network marks decade-long milestone with 680-plus published stories from global practitioners, researchers and indigenous communities sharing wildfire resilience strategies.
Community Weaving for Eco-Cultural Restoration: Partnering with Tribes in Lake County, CA (Fire Networks) - Local tribes and scientists unite in Lake County, California, combining traditional Pomo knowledge with modern research to protect Clear Lake's watershed and reduce wildfire risks.
D1 – 2023 Equator Prize: Community Dialogues and Training (Equator Initiative) - Indigenous and local leaders from 31 communities across four continents unite for sustainable development training at the 2023 Equator Prize summit.
D2 – 2023 Equator Prize: Community Dialogues and Training (Equator Initiative) - UNDP trainers equipped 2023 Equator Prize recipients with storytelling and advocacy skills to amplify their environmental initiatives.
D3 – 2023 Equator Prize: Community Dialogues and Training (Equator Initiative) - Indigenous leaders from 22 nations gathered at the 2023 Equator Prize training to craft a unified statement on nature-based solutions and ancestral environmental protection.
D4 – 2023 Equator Prize: Community Dialogues and Training (Equator Initiative) - Indigenous leaders and community representatives crafted a joint statement on climate action, environmental protection and youth empowerment during the 2023 Equator Prize dialogue.
D5 – 2023 Equator Prize: Community Dialogues and Training (Equator Initiative) - Prize-winning communities received guidance on case studies, national ceremonies, climate conventions, e-learning tools and spatial planning during Day 5 of the 2023 Equator Prize program.
Engaging Communities with Prescribed Fire: Lessons Learned from PBA Outreach in Fire-Prone Areas (Fire Networks) - Fire-prone communities in Trinity County are embracing prescribed burn initiatives through trauma-informed workshops, strategic facilitation, and sustained follow-up efforts, reports The Watershed Center.
Escape Into the Story: Three Longform Reads for Your Weekend (Fire Networks) - Interactive narratives delve into wilderness fire management, Texas wildfire resilience, and Fire Learning Network partnerships through three new StoryMaps.
In Bolivia’s Amazon, declaration of the Lagos de San Pedro Municipal Conservation Area is a Key Step Towards Conservation and Sustainable Development (Andes Amazon Fund) - Bolivia has established a 500,889-acre conservation area in Pando department, safeguarding biodiversity while supporting Indigenous communities' sustainable resource management.
Nota de repúdio do Redário pelo ataque ao Assentamento Olga Benário (SP) (Socioambiental) - Armed attackers stormed São Paulo's Olga Benário Settlement, killing agroforester Valdir do Nascimento and sparking demands for resident protection from the Redário network.
The Warmth That Keeps Us Coming Back (Fire Networks) - Despite mounting health risks and losses in 2024, fire leader Lenya Quinn-Davidson emphasizes the vital role of human connection and hospitality within fire management culture.
Voces del Fuego (Voices of Fire) (Fire Networks) - Fifty fire practitioners from 27 organizations across eight countries unite in California's first Spanish-language prescribed burn training, captured in the film "Voces del Fuego."
120+ Tribal Leaders Call on Biden to Grant Leonard Peltier Clemency (NDN Collective) - Over 120 tribal leaders are urging President Biden to free 80-year-old Leonard Peltier, America's longest-held Native American political prisoner, after nearly five decades behind bars.
For Ugandan farmers, good fences make good neighbors — of elephants (Mongabay) - Electric fences in Uganda's Queen Elizabeth National Park successfully deter elephants from raiding crops, despite opposition from Indigenous communities who view the barriers as land-rights violations.
Tribal Leaders Letter in Support of Clemency (NDN Collective) - More than 100 tribal leaders have urged President Biden to grant clemency to 80-year-old Leonard Peltier, who has spent 49 years behind bars despite ongoing questions about his conviction.
Industry
Siemens launches 52MW electrolyzer in Denmark, RENA claims TOPCon cost advantage over Chinese competitors, while University of Michigan develops CO2-based cement and brain simulation achieves 86B neuron milestone
🔮 The Sunday edition #506: World on fire; brain simulation; Meta’s choice; home supercomputer, smart ants & rodent VR ++ (Exponential View) - Scientists have replicated human brain complexity by simulating 86 billion neurons and 4.76 trillion synapses using 14,000 GPUs.
Breakthrough for methanol could start in Leuna (Energy Central) - Europe's largest e-methanol facility launches 52MW hydrogen production in Denmark, as Germany's Leuna Chemical Park signals shift toward green methanol manufacturing.
E Methanol | Kassø (Energy Central) - Denmark's largest electrolyzer, a 52MW Siemens Energy system, has begun hydrogen production at Kassø e-methanol plant, marking a key step toward methanol synthesis using stored CO2.
How North America’s Leading Brownfield Redeveloper Makes Millions by Not Redeveloping Brownfields (Inside Climate News) - Property giant Commercial Development Co. has earned millions by acquiring and leaving undeveloped most of its 63 brownfield sites across North America, investigation finds.
Making Cement With Fewer Carbon Emissions (CleanTechnica) - Scientists at the University of Michigan have created a process to produce cement using air-captured CO2, potentially cutting global emissions by 3 gigatons yearly.
NPL | International landscape on Cryogenic and Hydrogen Materials testing (NPL) - A new report reveals critical gaps in global testing capabilities for cryogenic and hydrogen materials, particularly for liquid hydrogen at 20K and high-pressure gas evaluations.
RENA’s Wet Chemical Equipment Solutions For TOPCon & HJT (TaiyangNews) - German equipment supplier RENA claims 30% lower ownership costs for its TOPCon solar cell production tools compared to Chinese rivals, offering payback within one year despite higher upfront costs.
The eighth U.S. liquefied natural gas export terminal, Plaquemines LNG, ships first cargo (EIA) - The United States' newest liquefied natural gas export facility, Plaquemines LNG, launched operations with its first cargo shipment, adding potential capacity of 2.6 billion cubic feet per day.
Well pad explosion raises concerns about drilling on Ohio public land (Energy News Network) - A Gulfport Energy well pad explosion near Ohio's state parks forced evacuations in Guernsey County, sparking fresh debate about drilling on public lands despite no reported casualties or environmental impact.
Beyond TOPCon: Tools For XBC Mass Production (TaiyangNews) - LAPLACE's adaptable TOPCon tools are driving mass production of XBC cells, with TBC capacity set to double to 35 GW and Hybrid BC to reach 70 GW by 2025.
Policy
US Treasury finalizes $3/kg hydrogen tax credits; NY and CA mandate oil company climate payments; $12.5B allocated for federal environmental programs amid pre-election policy shifts
‘Have some guts’: Sarah Hanson-Young challenges Labor to keep its environmental promises (The Guardian) - Greens Senator Sarah Hanson-Young demands Labor fulfill environmental pledges and protect koala habitats before the 2025 federal election.
‘It’s ironic’: how climate crisis is driving Trump push on Greenland and Panama (The Guardian) - Climate change impacts are driving US interests in Greenland's newly exposed minerals and Panama Canal operations, where drought has cut shipping capacity by 50%.
🌎 Final hydrogen tax credits get greenlight #228 (CTVC) - The US Treasury has approved tax credits worth up to $3 per kilogram for low-emission hydrogen production, implementing strict renewable energy and matching requirements for producers.
12 books to prepare you for Trump 2.0 (Yale Climate Connections) - A Yale professor examines 12 new books about climate crisis, nature, and bridging divides as Americans brace for a possible Trump return to the White House in 2025.
15th IRENA Assembly to Set Energy Transition Narrative for 2025 (IRENA) - Global leaders from 170 nations gather in Abu Dhabi to chart plans for tripling renewable energy capacity by 2030 while boosting support for developing economies.
30% Rebate For Rooftop Solar & Storage In Canada’s Ontario (TaiyangNews) - Ontario will launch a residential rooftop solar and storage rebate program offering homeowners 30% back, up to CAD 10,000, as part of a CAD 10.9 billion energy efficiency investment.
A man still holding a garden hose. A woman who stayed with her pets. Details emerge about the LA fire victims (The Guardian) - Tragic details emerge of 24 Los Angeles wildfire victims, including residents found clutching garden hoses and others who perished while staying behind with pets and disabled relatives.
As Los Angeles burns, conspiracy peddlers lie about—and celebrate—the danger we’re living through (Mother Jones) - Far-right conspiracy theorists are spreading false claims and rejoicing as multiple wildfires sweep across Los Angeles, threatening communities amid hazardous weather conditions.
As the world burns, young Australians are feeling disbelief – and looking for answers | Anjali Sharma (The Guardian) - Young Australians voice frustration as global temperatures surpass 1.5C threshold in 2024, amid the nation's absence of climate protection laws for future generations.
Biden urges Congress to ‘step up’ on California aid as LA warned of ‘explosive fire growth’ – as it happened (The Guardian) - Amid mounting losses exceeding $250bn and 24 deaths, President Biden demands emergency funding as Los Angeles braces for severe fire threats that have already destroyed over 12,000 structures.
China’s Anti-Dumping Duty Review Into US & South Korea Polysilicon Imports (TaiyangNews) - China launches review of anti-dumping duties on US and South Korean polysilicon imports, maintaining current tariffs during 12-month probe starting January 2025.
Chris Riddell on Donald Trump pouring oil on to the climate crisis as Los Angeles burns – cartoon (The Guardian) - Trump promotes fossil fuel drilling and expansion plans while Los Angeles wildfires rage, highlighting his stance on climate policy.
CJA Welcomes New Executive Director (Climate Justice Alliance) - Climate justice advocate KD Chavez has been named Executive Director of CJA, bringing expertise in intersectional movements and Just Transition initiatives.
Community Wildfire Defense Grants: A Round Three Application Primer (Fire Networks) - US Forest Service launches $200 million grant program, enabling communities and Tribes to mitigate wildfire risks through February 2025.
Dangerous winds expected to amplify California wildfires as death toll hits 24 (The Guardian) - Deadly California wildfires have killed 24 near Los Angeles, with officials warning of incoming 70mph Santa Ana winds that could worsen the $150bn catastrophe.
Did you know that your voice can actually change the "climate denial" narrative? (ACE) - A Florida youth activist reports that personal conversations have proven effective at shifting climate denial attitudes across her state.
EJ Movement Defeats the Energy Permitting Reform Act (Climate Justice Alliance) - Environmental justice advocates successfully blocked legislation that would have fast-tracked fossil fuel projects and weakened environmental safeguards across the United States.
El Salvador reverses landmark mining ban, setting up clash with activists (Mongabay) - El Salvador's lawmakers have overturned a six-year mining prohibition, granting the state majority control of mining ventures and authority over the nation's $1.3 billion gold deposits.
Ella Baron on Los Angeles and the wildfires of misinformation – cartoon (The Guardian) - A striking cartoon portrays social media falsehoods engulfing Los Angeles like the region's infamous wildfires.
Expert Criticizes US Response, Policy Failures for CA Wildfires (Bastille Post) - Forest ecologist Chad Hanson blasts U.S. wildfire policies, arguing that vegetation removal diverts resources from crucial home protection measures needed to combat California's devastating blazes.
Federal Funding Opportunities and Guidance – January 13, 2025 (Environmental Protection Network) - Federal environmental initiatives receive $12.5 billion in new funding opportunities, as agencies prepare contingency plans for potential policy shifts after the 2024 election.
Feds shell out remaining $6 billion in 48C advanced energy tax credits (Renewable Energy World) - Federal officials have allocated the final $6 billion in clean energy tax credits across more than 30 states, targeting manufacturing, materials processing, and industrial decarbonization initiatives.
First of the year (Keep Cool) - Global temperatures surpass 1.5°C as Los Angeles battles wildfires in early 2025, while clean energy deployment and climate tech investments continue to expand.
Florida Wants To Cram A Trash Incinerator Down The Throats Of Communities Of Color (CleanTechnica) - Miami-Dade officials face backlash over plans to build a $1.5 billion waste incinerator near minority communities, after rejecting a previous site near an upscale country club.
Future of Russian gas looking bleak as Ukraine turns off taps and Europe eyes ending all imports (The Conversation) - Russia's gas exports could plummet up to 47% by 2040 amid Ukraine's transit shutdown, EU's planned 2027 import ban, and uncertain Asian market prospects.
Greenlash And The Enshittification Of America (CleanTechnica) - Growing opposition to environmental initiatives has sparked a 'greenlash' movement, with major corporations abandoning climate pledges amid speculation of Trump's 2025 presidential return.
Is Your State Making Big Oil Polluters Pay For Their Toxic Waste? (CleanTechnica) - New York joins California in requiring major oil companies to pay $3 billion annually over 25 years to cover climate damage costs.
Italy’s Transizione 5.0 Increases Tax Credits For European Solar Modules (TaiyangNews) - Italy boosts tax credits up to 150% for high-efficiency European solar modules, marking an increase from previous rates of 120-140% under its Transizione 5.0 scheme.
Join ODOE January 31 for Oregon Energy Strategy Modeling Results Info Session (Oregon Department of Energy) - Energy officials will present modeling results for Oregon's 2025 comprehensive strategy during a hybrid session January 31, examining pathways to meet state energy goals.
LA fires forecast to be costliest blaze in US history with estimate of over $200bn in losses (The Guardian) - Los Angeles wildfires have claimed 24 lives and razed 12,000 structures, with experts projecting unprecedented losses between $200-275 billion as strong winds threaten further devastation.
LA fires: Why fast wildfires and those started by human activities are more destructive and harder to contain (The Conversation) - Fast-moving wildfires, particularly those ignited by humans, caused 78% of structural damage over two decades as climate change and urban sprawl worsen their impact.
Los Angeles’ $150 Billion Fires Have Lessons For All Urban Planners (CleanTechnica) - Devastating January wildfires in Los Angeles caused $150 billion in damages, destroying 12,300 structures and forcing 300,000 residents to evacuate, underscoring critical urban planning challenges.
Maryland’s Climate Goals Under Strain as Budget Gaps and Looming Federal Cuts Threaten Progress (Inside Climate News) - Maryland's clean energy initiatives hang in balance amid a $2.7 billion state deficit and looming federal cuts that could derail the state's emissions reduction targets.
Media reaction: The 2025 Los Angeles wildfires and the role of climate change (Carbon Brief) - Record-breaking January wildfires in Los Angeles killed 24 people and scorched 40,000 acres amid climate-driven conditions, causing up to $150B in damages and destabilizing California's insurance market.
Mental Health and Climate Change: How to Cope When the News Is Really, Really Hard (Moms Clean Air Force) - Mental health experts offer five proven strategies to combat climate anxiety and disaster-related stress, including limiting media exposure and fostering community support networks.
The CLEO Institute Joins 50+ Organizations in Supporting Federal Policy Agenda for Tackling Extreme Heat Announcement Comes as 2024 is Officially Declared Hottest Year on Record (CLEO Institute) - Over 50 organizations have united behind a new federal heat policy agenda as annual extreme heat costs reach $160 billion, coinciding with 2024's record-breaking temperatures.
The EXPLORE Act is a blueprint for bipartisan conservation legislation (High Country News) - A new law expanding outdoor recreation access and conservation initiatives has secured bipartisan support by strategically avoiding climate change terminology in its language.
The LA Fires: A Moment for Reflection and Action (Terra.do) - Amid warnings of climate change-driven extreme weather, Southern California wildfires have forced 100,000 evacuations and destroyed more than 1,000 buildings.
To reform climate COPs, we should start with the voting rules (Climate Home News) - Experts say changing COP summits' voting rules would limit fossil fuel nations' power to block climate action.
Trump’s Offshore Wind Ban Is Coming, Congressman Says (Heatmap News) - A Trump administration executive order could impose a six-month ban on East Coast offshore wind development if the former president wins in 2024, Rep. Jeff Van Drew revealed.
UNDRR Regional Office for Africa 2024 Highlights (UNDRR) - African disaster resilience efforts expanded significantly as UNDRR's regional office launched multiple initiatives, including Tanzania's situation room and the first Africa Network forum, reaching over 750 participants.
US supreme court allows Hawaii lawsuit against fossil fuel firms’ misinformation (The Guardian) - Hawaii's lawsuit against major fossil fuel companies can proceed in state court, following allegations of a decades-long climate misinformation campaign, the Supreme Court ruled today.
USDA Strikes Again: $6 Billion For Rural Clean Energy Projects (CleanTechnica) - The USDA has allocated $6 billion for clean energy initiatives across 20+ states, aiming to serve 42 million Americans through rural electric cooperatives.
Video: U.S. Govt Funds Other Nations’ Militaries More Than It Funds Climate Protection (IPS) - U.S. government spending on foreign military aid reached $79 billion over ten years, dwarfing the $2 billion allocated to the Green Climate Fund, data shows.
What is happening in Los Angeles is our future | Francine Prose (The Guardian) - Amid a climate crisis, Los Angeles grapples with severe wildfires forcing mass evacuations, highlighting urban vulnerability to extreme weather events.
What is happening in Los Angeles is our future | Francine Prose (The Guardian) - Amid a climate crisis, Los Angeles grapples with severe wildfires forcing mass evacuations, highlighting urban vulnerability to extreme weather events.
What Started the Fires in Los Angeles? (Heatmap News) - Strong Santa Ana winds sparked multiple Los Angeles fires, including the Palisades and Eaton blazes, with investigators examining power lines and reignition as potential causes.
Where there’s fire, there’s smoke: Los Angeles blazes raise fears of ‘super toxic’ lung damage (The Guardian) - Toxic PM2.5 pollution from Los Angeles wildfires burning through urban areas poses severe health risks, especially for vulnerable residents exposed to hazardous smoke particles.
Will the success of Biden’s clean energy policies impede Trump’s agenda? (Utility Dive) - Clean energy initiatives under Biden have generated 330,000 jobs and secured $265 billion in private investments, raising questions about their survival in a potential Trump administration.
Preparing for Trump 2.0: Books for academics and climate practitioners (Yale Climate Connections) - A new collection of 12 books and reports analyzes how a second Trump presidency could impact climate policy, environmental protests, and government action on sustainability.
Trump’s Cabinet Picks Face Confirmation Hearings This Week (Heatmap News) - Cabinet nominees for Interior, Energy, and EPA head to Senate hearings as EV leases surge and LA wildfires rage.
Home Cameras Offer ‘Horror Movie Moments’—and Essential Help—Amidst LA Fires (Atmos) - Home security cameras across Los Angeles are providing vital emergency data while forcing evacuated residents to witness their properties' destruction in real-time during ongoing wildfires.
Renewables
Record EU power share hits 48% as PERC modules maintain market dominance; major expansions from Alteo Nyrt, Fortescue, and Waaree Energies; breakthroughs in geothermal lithium and solar storage from Vulcan Energy and JinkoSolar
📈 Data to start your week (Exponential View) - EU renewables surged to 48% of power generation as US oil imports from Saudi Arabia plunged to a 40-year low of 277,000 barrels per day.
21.5% – 21.7% Efficiency Band: Product Count Up, But Share Declines In 2024 (TaiyangNews) - Despite a decline in product count from 24 to 20, PERC solar modules with 21.5%-21.7% efficiency still command 38% market share in 2024.
Alteo Nyrt Targets Around 2 GW Renewable Energy Capacity In Central Europe (TaiyangNews) - Hungarian energy company Alteo Nyrt will invest €2.5 billion to expand its renewable capacity from 110 MW to 2 GW across Central Europe by 2030.
Ameresco to Deliver Energy Resiliency and Net-Zero Solutions at U.S. General Services Administration’s Denver Federal Center (Ameresco) - Energy firm wins $183M contract to install 14.4MW solar and geothermal systems at Denver Federal Center, targeting 51% grid energy reduction and net-zero status by 2045.
Australian researchers hope to put fresh spin on next-gen vertical wind turbines (RenewEconomy) - Australian researchers aim to test a 6kW vertical axis wind turbine in South Australia, seeking solutions for urban and offshore wind power challenges.
Big win for Fortescue as massive 800 MW wind farm gets federal green light (RenewEconomy) - Federal authorities have approved Fortescue's 800MW Prairie wind farm in Queensland, subject to wildlife habitat protection measures.
China Solar PV News Snippets: Jinko ESS Powering Ningbo Smart Charging Station & More (TaiyangNews) - Chinese solar giants advance as JinkoSolar's 745 kWh storage system energizes Ningbo charging hub, while Trina Storage leads BNEF's bankability rankings amid nationwide facility approvals.
Cybrid Pitches RayBo Film For High-Humidity Environments (TaiyangNews) - Cybrid's UV-to-blue light converting RayBo film shows 90% durability after 2,500 hours in damp heat while boosting TOPCon module output by 0.53%.
Daytime wholesale power prices are heading to zero – isn’t that good news? (RenewEconomy) - Rooftop solar's rapid growth has driven Victorian daytime wholesale electricity prices near zero, while evening rates surge due to fossil fuel costs.
Gina Rinehart-backed, geothermal powered “pit to battery” project marks key milestone (RenewEconomy) - Australian-backed Vulcan Energy has produced Europe's first geothermally-powered battery-grade lithium, aiming to supply 24,000 tonnes annually for 500,000 electric vehicles.
Italy’s Enel Green Power Sells India RE Portfolio To Waaree Energies (TaiyangNews) - India's Waaree Energies has purchased Enel Green Power's 760 MW renewable portfolio and 2.5 GW pipeline for $91.7 million.
Peter Dutton’s “always on” nuclear power is about as reliable as wind and solar – during a renewables drought (RenewEconomy) - Modern nuclear plants operate at just 44-77% capacity during peak months, matching wind and solar reliability levels during renewable shortages, new analysis reveals.
Study: Europe on track to triple renewables capacity by 2050, but miss net zero goals (BusinessGreen) - Europe's renewable electricity capacity is projected to triple by 2050, yet market challenges and structural barriers will prevent the continent from achieving its climate targets, new research shows.
U.S. Wind and Solar Overtake Coal Power (Yale E360) - Wind and solar power generated 16 percent of America's electricity in 2024, marking the first time renewable sources have outpaced coal generation, despite steady emissions from rising energy demands.
Ukraine Solar Market Expanded By Up To 850 MW In 2024 (TaiyangNews) - Ukraine installed up to 850 MW of new solar capacity last year, as businesses and households sought energy independence amid wartime grid vulnerabilities.
Warradarge wind farm to add another 30 turbines, take lead as ‘state’s largest’ (RenewEconomy) - Western Australia's Warradarge wind farm will expand to 283MW with a $400 million investment adding 30 new turbines, making it the state's largest wind energy facility.
Wind turbines impair the access of bats to water bodies in agricultural landscapes (ScienceDaily) - Wind turbines near water bodies in agricultural areas reduce bat activity by up to 63%, with open-space and narrow-space foraging species most severely impacted, researchers report.
Your Questions About Montana Renewables, (Partly) Answered (CleanTechnica) - Montana Renewables has secured a $1.67 billion Department of Energy loan to boost aviation fuel production from vegetable oils and fats at its Great Falls plant.
IRENA 15A: Assembly Live Coverage (IRENA) - More than 1,450 global leaders convene in Abu Dhabi for IRENA's 15th Assembly, aiming to triple renewable energy capacity by 2030 through enhanced financing and international cooperation.
Transport
Tesla hits record Q4 sales amid profit concerns, DOT funds 11.5K charging ports, GOGO's Uganda e-bikes thrive, NASA develops hybrid aircraft, while NYC congestion pricing and Formula E innovations advance clean transport
2024 Is Over, And Legacy Auto Could Be Doomed, But The ICE Is Not Yet Defeated (CleanTechnica) - Global ICE engine production rose in 2024 despite legacy automakers losing roughly 1 million sales to Chinese manufacturers dominating EV and affordable vehicle markets.
Advocates Warn of Climate, Cancer Risks From a Potential Trump Rollback on Electric Big Rigs and Buses (InsideClimateNews) - Experts warn that a potential Trump rollback of electric truck regulations could jeopardize $5 billion in clean vehicle funding and impact air quality for 72 million Americans living near freight routes.
Automotive services and tech company report shows electric vehicle sales gaining ground in mainstream market share and appeal in North America (Cox Automotive) - Electric vehicle sales are expected to capture 10% of the U.S. market by 2025, with buyers reporting higher satisfaction rates compared to traditional combustion-engine vehicles.
DOT announces $635M in EV charging, other clean transportation grants (Utility Dive) - The U.S. Department of Transportation will distribute $635 million to build more than 11,500 EV charging ports and alternative fuel stations across 27 states, four tribal areas and Washington, D.C.
GOGO’s Electric Motorcycle Customers In Uganda Covered 50 Million Kilometres In 2024 (CleanTechnica) - GOGO's 2,000 electric motorcycles in Uganda clocked 50 million kilometers last year, completing 800,000 battery swaps across 60 stations nationwide.
Hydrogen Hybrid Power NASA (Energy Central) - Scientists at NASA are developing a hybrid aircraft that merges fuel cell technology with gas turbines, potentially slashing emissions through advanced air compression systems.
January 2025 Newsletter: Taking bold action for a plastic-free future, clean air and climate progress (Pacific Environment) - Global negotiators extend plastics treaty talks while the US unveils plans to eliminate maritime emissions by 2050, marking dual efforts to combat ocean pollution and climate change.
JP Morgan Thinks Tesla Will Be The Biggest Loser From Trump Anti-EV Policies (CleanTechnica) - Tesla faces potential 40% profit decline if Trump's anti-EV policies, including tax credit cuts and regulatory shifts, take effect, JPMorgan analysts warn.
Poland’s Hydrogen Bus Plans Run Into High Hydrogen Prices (CleanTechnica) - Polish cities face severe setbacks in hydrogen bus deployment, with fuel costs soaring to $16.50/kg versus $1.18/kg for diesel, creating a $655,000 annual cost gap per vehicle.
Tesla’s Long-Term Sales Trend — In Charts (CleanTechnica) - Tesla's quarterly sales reached a record 484,507 units in Q4 2023, despite marking the company's first annual sales decline since Model S debuted, missing its 50% growth target.
The Climate Benefits Of Congestion Charges In New York City (CleanTechnica) - New York City's pioneering $9 congestion fee is set to slash Manhattan's CO2 emissions by 10.72% within two decades while generating $15 billion for transit upgrades.
This Is What’s Driving Growing EV Sales & Competitiveness (CleanTechnica) - Global electric vehicle battery costs plunged to an unprecedented $115 per kilowatt-hour in 2024, with pure-electric variants dropping below $100/kWh amid surging factory capacity and LFP uptake.
Understanding Battery Energy Density in Electric Vehicles (Proterra) - Battery density in electric vehicles, measured both by weight and volume, directly impacts driving range and vehicle performance without requiring larger power cells.
You Can Lease A Neta V In Kenya For Just $30 Per Day! (CleanTechnica) - Chinese automaker Neta's electric V model debuts in Kenya through MojaEV's leasing program, requiring a six-month commitment at $30 daily.
EXPLORE Act Becomes Law, Helps EVs, Bikes, and YouTubers (CleanTechnica) - The EXPLORE Act expands filming access in national parks, requires 10 new bike trails by 2030, and adds EV charging at federal recreation sites across America.
Taking It To The Tracks: EV Development Pushes The Need For Racing Speed (CleanTechnica) - Formula E's GEN3 Evo race car surpasses F1 acceleration while featuring all-wheel drive, regenerative braking, and in-race charging that will shape future consumer EVs.
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