As the UK moves swiftly out of winter and into the sunshine, the world of sustainability and clean energy is constantly changing, progressing and evolving. With each passing week, new discussions are being had as to the future of climate action, agreements are being signed and funds are being distributed towards supporting a more eco-friendly future for our planet.
So this week, we’re sharing some of the most important and note-worthy news emerging from around the world about clean energy, sustainability and green living from Spring 2023.
‘As the months go on, we hope to see more and more constructive climate news emerging from around the world. From increased government action to significant industry shifts, the only way to encourage positive climate action is through raising awareness through articles like these.’
Sam Dight, CCO & Land Director at Clean Energy Capital
A UN deal has been reached to protect international waters - 5th March 2023
On the 5th March 2023, the UN announced it had reached a historic agreement to help protect marine biology in international waters and the waterways themselves. In a move to support the ‘30 x 30’ pledge drafted at COP27 in 2022, (a campaign to protect 30% of the world’s oceans and waters by 2023), the UN is pledging its support to protect international oceans and seas. With the oceans and marine life living within them acting as the world’s largest carbon sink, this pledge is vital to helping the planet meet the Paris Agreement’s targets of no more than 1.5°C warming.
Apple and Global Suppliers Expand Renewable Energy to 13.7 Gigawatts - 5th April 2023
On the 5th April 2023, Apple announced that their manufacturing partners now support over 13 gigawatts of renewable energy. Apple’s CEO Tim Cook shared that ‘with partners around the world, we’re adding even more renewable energy to power our global supply chain and investing in next-generation green technologies.’ As part of their 2030 target to use only 100% renewable energy, this statement showcases a 30% increase so far, as a result of increased sustainable change across 250 suppliers of Apple products.
Additionally, Apple shared a series of positive statistics from their Supplier Clean Energy Program, including the 17.4 million metric tons of carbon emissions avoided in 2022, and the 85% of direct manufacturing spend being on sustainable renewable energy.
G7 Ministers Agree to Cut Gas Consumption and Speed-Up Renewable Energy - 15th April 2023
On the 15th April 2023, France’s energy transition minister shared that the Group of Seven (G7) richest nations had called for reduced gas consumption, a phasing out of fossil fuels and an increase in electricity from renewable sources.
For the first time ever, the G7 has agreed to encourage and support sustainable progression, accelerating the reduction of unabated fossil fuels and accelerating the use of renewable energy instead. Placing a direct responsibility onto developing countries and the G7 itself, the agreement that emerged is designed to force these rich nations into funding sustainable efforts, finding fuel alternatives and mobilising private finance towards decarbonisation in wealthier countries.
EU calls for global renewable energy target - 20th April 2023
On the 20th of April 2023, the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen requested a worldwide renewable energy target to be set at this year’s COP28 United Nations event. Von der Leyen has plans to launch a new initiative that unifies global targets towards energy efficiency and renewable energy - an idea previously discussed at a ministers meeting in Copenhagen in March.
Furthermore, the Head of the International Renewable Energy Agency, Francesco La Camera has also shared a message urging MEF countries, such as Canada, Germany and Japan, to begin accelerating their transition over to alternative fuels and renewables.
Sustainable fuel grant for student racers - 25th April 2023
Finally, on the 25th of April 2023, the world of racing announced a great step for its young student drivers. Over a third of teams in the 2023 Formula Student Championship have opted to use a second-generation biofuel as an alternative to standard fossil fuels, as supported by a grant from Motorsport UK.
The fuel selected provides an 80% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions for combustion vehicles, without sacrificing speed or performance. This announcement comes as one of many from the world of motorsport as part of their work towards overall sustainability in racing.
To find out more about how your business can become a positive climate news story, speak to the Clean Energy Capital team today. We can help you to become a cleaner, greener business through our experienced Power Purchase Agreements and provide a reliable consultation service for your team.
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