UNITED NATIONS-The facts on climate and energy

United Nations

Climate change is a hot topic – with myths and falsehoods circulating widely. Find some essential facts here. Share them, use them and talk about them to help counter mis- and disinformation and build support for urgent action.

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FACT: Climate change is happening

Climate change is already affecting every region on Earth. Changes in rainfall patterns, rising sea levels, melting glaciers, a warming ocean, and more frequent and intense extreme weather events are just some of the changes already impacting millions of people. (IPCC)

Climate change can affect our health, ability to grow food, housing, safety and work. Some of us are more vulnerable to climate impacts, such as people living in small island developing countries. Threats like sea-level rise and saltwater intrusion have advanced to the point where whole communities have had to relocate. In the future, the number people displaced by climate change is expected to rise.

The changes in the climate are widespread, rapid and intensifying, and some of the changes, such as sea level rise or melting ice sheets, are irreversible over hundreds to thousands of years. (IPCC)

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Illustration: UN DGC

FACT: Climate change is caused by human activity

Natural changes in the sun’s activity or large volcanic eruptions have caused ancient shifts in the Earth’s temperatures and weather patterns, but over the last 200 years, these natural causes have not significantly affected global temperatures. Today, it’s human activities that are causing climate change, primarily due to the burning of fossil fuels like coal, oil, and gas. (IPCC)

Burning fossil fuels creates a blanket of pollution trapping the sun’s heat on Earth and raising global temperatures. (Global warming then leads to other changes like droughts, water scarcity, severe fires, rising sea levels, flooding, melting polar ice, intense storms and declining biodiversity.)

The more of this pollution, such as carbon dioxide (CO2), accumulates in the atmosphere, the more of the sun’s heat gets trapped, the warmer it gets on Earth. There is a strong relationship between cumulative CO2 emissions and the increase in global surface temperature. (IPCC)

The amount of CO2 in the atmosphere has been increasing at an unprecedented rate since the Industrial Revolution, when manual labor began to be replaced by machinery fueled by coal, oil and gas. Today, the concentration of CO2 in the atmosphere is about 50% higher than in 1750, far exceeding the natural changes over at least the past 800,000 years. (IPCC)

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IPCC

FACT: Scientists agree that humans are responsible for climate change

Multiple independent studies over the past 19 years have found that between 90 and 100 percent of scientists agree that humans are responsible for climate change, with most of the studies finding a 97 percent consensus.

A 2021 study found a greater than 99 percent consensus on human-induced climate change in the peer-reviewed scientific literature (reviewed by export in the same field prior to publication) - a level of certainty similar to that of the theory of evolution.

The Synthesis Report by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), released in March 2023, categorically confirmed that human activity is the overwhelming cause of climate change. The IPCC’s comprehensive assessments are written by hundreds of leading scientists from around the globe, with contributions from thousands of experts, and endorsed by the governments of every country in the world.

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Graphic: UNFCCC

FACT: Every fraction of a degree of warming matters

With every increment of global warming, extreme heat and rainfall events become more frequent and more intense. (IPCC)

Greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide, from human activities are responsible for approximately 1.1°C of warming since 1850-1900. (IPCC) This has already caused significant changes in the climate, including more extreme weather events, which have caused widespread harm to people and nature. (IPCC)

If global warming exceeds 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, there will be more heat waves, longer warm seasons and shorter cold seasons. At 2°C of global warming, extreme heat would more often cross critical tolerance thresholds with devastating impacts on agriculture and human health. Increasing changes to wetness and dryness, to winds, snow and ice, coastal areas and oceans, will affect different regions in different ways. (IPCC)

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FACT: The climate is changing faster than humans, plants and animals can adapt

If global temperatures keep rising, adapting to climate change will become increasingly difficult, especially for poorer countries. A small island, for example, may become uninhabitable due to sea level rise and lack of sufficient freshwater. In that case, inhabitants may have no other option than to abandon their homes. (IPCC)

Adaptation alone cannot keep up with the impacts of climate change. Adaptation is crucial for saving lives and livelihoods, but humans’ ability to adapt to climate change is not limitless. (Insights)

Rising sea levels that submerge coastal communities and extreme heatwaves intolerable to the human body are examples of ‘hard’ limits to our ability to adapt. (UNFCCC)

With increasing global warming, losses and damages will increase and more human and natural systems will reach the limits of their ability to adapt. Many species and ecosystems are already near or beyond their adaptation limits. (IPCC)

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Illustration: UN DGC

FACT: Climate change is a major threat to people’s health

The impacts of climate change are harming human health – through air pollution, disease, extreme weather events, forced displacement, food insecurity and pressures on mental health – and will only get worse with every fraction of a degree of warming. (WHO)

The main cause of climate change – the burning of coal, oil and gas – also causes air pollution which in turn can lead to respiratory diseases, strokes, and heart attacks. More than 8.7 million people currently die every year due to outdoor air pollution. (REN21)

Replacing fossil fuel-based power plants with renewable energy, such as wind or solar farms, will greatly benefit human health. Wind turbines and solar panels do not release emissions that pollute the air or cause global warming. (REN21)

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Graphic: UN DGC

FACT: Natural gas is a fossil fuel, not a clean source of energy

Natural gas is a fossil fuel like oil and coal – formed from the remains of plants, animals, and microorganisms that lived millions of years ago. When burned, it releases carbon pollution into the atmosphere.

Burning natural gas was responsible for 22 per cent of global carbon emissions from fuel combustion in 2020 (not far behind oil, 32 per cent, and coal, 45 per cent). (IEA)

In addition, the extraction and transport of natural gas often releases methane – a powerful greenhouse gas – into the atmosphere. Natural gas production was responsible for 40 million tons of methane emissions in 2021 – about the same amount of methane emissions as from the oil industry. (IEA) (Methane is about 84 times more potent than CO2, measured over a 20-year period). (UNEP)

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FACT: Clean energy technologies produce far less carbon pollution than fossil fuels

Clean energy technologies – from wind turbines and solar panels to electric vehicles and battery storage – do require a wide range of minerals and metals (IEA), and produce thus some emissions, but still far less than fossil fuels. (IEA)

Solar panels produced today only need to operate for 4-8 months to make up for their manufacturing emissions (and the average solar panel has a lifetime of around 25-30 years). (IEA). Wind turbines, similarly, take only about 7 months to produce enough clean electricity to make up for the carbon pollution generated during manufacture (and they have a typical lifespan of 20-25 years). (ScienceDirect)

Most of the carbon pollution generated during a wind turbine’s life occurs during manufacturing. Once it’s up and spinning, the turbine generates close to zero pollution. A coal or natural gas plant, in contrast, burns fuel — and releases carbon dioxide — every moment that it runs. (Yale)

Even the most carbon-intensive wind turbine is responsible for far less carbon emissions per kilowatt-hour of electricity produced than any coal or natural gas-fired power plant. (Coal-fired power plants produce 675 to 1.689 grams of CO2 per kilowatt-hour, while natural gas power plants produce 437 to 758 grams — far more than on- and offshore wind which produce, on average, 15 and 12 grams (UNECE), or even the most carbon-intensive wind turbine at 25.5 grams). (Yale)

Electric vehicles, over their lifecycle, from manufacturing to disposal, produce about half the carbon emissions of the average internal combustion engine car, with the potential for a further 25 per cent reduction with low-carbon electricity. (IEA)

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Photo: Middelgruden offshore wind farm in Denmark. UN Photo/Eskinder Debebe

FACT: Entire countries already rely on nearly 100 percent renewable electricity

Costa Rica, Norway, Iceland, Paraguay and Uruguay power their grids with hydro, geothermal, wind and solar energy. (REN21)

Some provinces and sub-national states also use nearly 100 percent renewables-based electricity: South Australia, Quebec (Canada) and Qinghai (China), as well as the islands of Ta’u (American Samoa), Eigg (Scotland) and El Hierro (Spain). (REN21)

Scotland and South Australia have met more than 100 percent of their total electricity demand with wind and solar, sometimes exporting their surplus. (REN21)

Other regions have generated surplus electricity with hydropower: Paraguay and Quebec both export their surplus hydropower. (REN21)

NOTE: No examples exist of fully renewable-based energy systems that span the electricity, heating, cooling, and transport sectors (the above examples cover only electricity). The foundations of such systems are now being laid, including the technologies, infrastructure and markets. (REN21)

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Graphic: Carbon Brief

FACT: Renewable energy will soon be the world’s top source of electricity

Renewable energy sources – such as water, geothermal, wind and solar – are available in every country, and their potential is yet to be fully harnessed.

Almost 30 per cent of global electricity comes from renewables today. (IEA)

By 2050, 90 per cent of the world’s electricity can and should come from renewable energy. (IRENA)

The world is set to add as much renewable power in the next 5 years as it did in the past 20. (IEA)

Renewables are projected to become the largest source of global electricity generation by early 2025, surpassing coal. (IEA)

In many regions, renewables are the fastest-growing energy source. (IEA)

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Graphic: UN DGC

FACT: Renewable energy is cheaper than fossil fuels

In most parts of the world, electricity from new renewable-energy plants, such as wind or solar, is now cheaper than power from new fossil fuel plants. (IRENA)

New onshore wind and solar projects cost roughly 40 percent less than coal or gas plants built from scratch—and the gap is widening. (BloombergNEF). The world has witnessed a seismic shift in the competitiveness of renewable power options since 2010: Solar has experienced the most rapid cost reductions, with costs of newly commissioned utility-scale projects falling 88 percent globally between 2010 and 2021 - mostly thanks to continuing technology improvements, greater economies of scale and reduced financing costs for wind and solar power plants. The cost of onshore wind fell by 68 percent, and offshore wind by 60 percent since 2010. (IRENA)

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Photo: UNDP Cambodia

FACT: Solar panels and wind turbines make good use of land

All energy sources require land: from the plot used for mining coal, to the land taken up by a power plant.

Wind farms require a lot of land, but while a coal mine is used just once, a wind farm continues to produce energy, year after year. Over time, an acre of wind or solar can generate more electricity than an acre of coal or uranium mines.

Land used for solar and wind farms can be “dual-use” – used for energy production and agriculture at the same time. Once built, a solar or wind farm has so little impact on its land that it is increasingly common to allow grazing and farming on the same acres at the same time.

Solar panels do not need to be installed directly on the ground, they can be put on existing structures like rooftops, roads or parking lot canopies, over canals and on agricultural land, and even floated on lakes and ponds.

In South-East Asia and Africa, where solar projects tend to compete with agricultural land, “agrivoltaics” and “floatovoltaics” allow agricultural land and water to be “dual-used” for solar panels without compromising water and food resources. (REN21)

Solar farms can also be installed on land that is not suitable for other uses – deserts, landfills, old coal mines or contaminated territory (Chernobyl now hosts a solar plant).

Solar panels can be put anywhere on Earth because the sun shines everywhere. No other type of electricity generation can match this flexibility.

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Photo: WMO/Boris Baran

FACT: Renewable energy is better at withstanding extreme weather events

Weather affects all energy sources. (IEA)

Gas-fired power plants could not keep up with electricity demand during the exceptionally cold weather in Texas, in the United States, in February 2021, leaving up to 5 million customers without power over a period of four days – primarily due to frozen gas wells and power outages in gas generators. Coal and nuclear plants also experienced outages. (IEA)

Increasing the share of wind and solar in the energy mix improves electricity security: a well-diversified energy mix can reduce the risks that come from disruptions in the supply of fossil fuels . Small-scale generators, such as distributed wind and solar panels, can also speed the recovery of communities from disasters or large-scale blackouts, while large thermal power plants take longer to resume normal operations since they need a large part of the system to be restored. (IEA)

Systems with distributed resources can be more resilient than centralized systems. Renewable energy technologies reduce vulnerability to climate risks by diversifying the sources of power and using battery storage and smart information technology.

Solar energy can also provide energy for emergency communication and natural disaster response in remote areas.

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Graphic: UN DGC

FACT: The transition to clean energy will create millions of jobs

The transition to net-zero emissions (away from fossil fuels and towards clean sources of energy) is projected to lead to an overall increase in jobs in the energy sector: about 5 million jobs in fossil fuel production could be lost by 2030, but an estimated 14 million new jobs would be created in clean energy, resulting in a net gain of 9 million jobs globally. (IEA)

The number continued to grow worldwide over the past decade, with most jobs in the solar photovoltaic, bioenergy, hydropower and wind power industries. (IRENA). The renewable energy sector employed 12.7 million people, directly and indirectly, in 2022, up from about 7.3 million in 2012. (IRENA)

Tens of millions of additional jobs will likely be created in the coming decades as investments grow and installed capacities expand. By 2050, the renewable energy sector is expected to employ at least 42 million people. Energy efficiency measures would create 21 million additional jobs and system flexibility 15 million additional jobs. (IRENA)

Every dollar of investment in renewables creates three times more jobs than in the fossil fuel industry. (SG)

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Photo: IFAD

FACT: Alternatives to petroleum-based products already exist

Many everyday products are still produced using oil or other fossil fuels. The process of extracting and transporting those fuels, then manufacturing the products creates lots of carbon emissions. Most plastics, clothing, tires, digital devices, fertilizer, laundry detergents and countless other everyday items are made from petrochemicals. (IEA)

The production of plastic is one of the most energy-intensive manufacturing processes in the world. The material is made from fossil fuels such as crude oil, which are transformed via heat and other additives into a polymer. In 2019, plastics generated 1.8 billion metric tonnes of carbon emissions – 3.4 per cent of the global total. (UNEP)

But there are alternatives. Plastic can be made fully or partially from plant materials, such as cellulose, potato or corn starch, sugar cane, maize and soy, instead of petroleum or natural gas. Bio-based plastic can be designed to be structurally identical to petroleum-based plastics. (UNEP)

A variety of carbon- and hydrogen-containing materials can replace oil, natural gas and coal as chemical feedstocks. Key among these are bioenergy products, which are a source of both carbon and hydrogen. Alternatively, each element can be obtained separately from gases produced by the iron and steel industry or from CO2 and water. (IEA)

Replacing the fossils fuels used to manufacture plastics or fertilizer is possible with biomass (organic material from plants and animals). The hydrocarbons in coal, oil and gas themselves originally came from biomass millions of years ago.

There is an enormous opportunity to produce these materials without fossil fuels. For example, bioplastics make up only about 1% of the plastic produced worldwide today. (IEA) However, using plant-based materials must be thoughtfully designed to take into account environmental, social, and economic factors across ecosystems and communities.

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Graphic: UN DGC

FACT: We can still limit climate change, if we act now!

The choices we make today will determine the changes in the climate we will experience in the future. (IPCC)

Large and sustained reductions in emissions of carbon dioxide and of other greenhouse gas emissions would limit climate change. (IPCC)

If we act now, we can limit climate change and preserve a livable planet.

We have the knowledge, tools and resources to secure a livable, sustainable future for all.

UNITED NATIONS-Actions for a healthy planet

UNITED NATIONS

The Sustainable Development Goals spell out how we can protect our environment and slow climate change, from forests to oceans to everywhere in between. Think about your electricity use and your travel. Check your dinner table. Reuse whatever you can. The possibilities for action are many – and add up fast.

Greenhouse gas emissions per person vary greatly among countries. In the United States of America, per capita emissions are more than double the world average of 6.5 tons of CO2 equivalent, while in India they are less than half the world average. Globally, the 10 percent of the population with the highest income accounts for nearly half of all emissions.

Here are some actions to reduce your impact on the environment.

Save energy at home

Much of our electricity and heat are powered by coal, oil and gas. Use less energy by reducing your heating and cooling use, switching to LED light bulbs and energy-efficient electric appliances, washing your laundry with cold water, or hanging things to dry instead of using a dryer. Improving your home’s energy efficiency, through better insulation for instance, or replacing your oil or gas furnace with an electric heat pump can reduce your carbon footprint by up to 900 kilograms of CO2e per year.

Walk, bike or take public transport

The world’s roadways are clogged with vehicles, most of them burning diesel or gasoline. Walking or riding a bike instead of driving will reduce greenhouse gas emissions -- and help your health and fitness. For longer distances, consider taking a train or bus. And carpool whenever possible. Living car-free can reduce your carbon footprint by up to 2 tons of CO2e per year compared to a lifestyle using a car.

Change your home's source of energy

Ask your utility company if your home energy comes from oil, coal or gas. If possible, see if you can switch to renewable sources such as wind or solar. Or install solar panels on your roof to generate energy for your home. Switching your home from oil, gas or coal-powered energy to renewable sources of energy, such as wind or solar, can reduce your carbon footprint by up to 1.5 tons of carbon dioxide emission per year.

Consider your travel

Airplanes burn large amounts of fossil fuels, producing significant greenhouse gas emissions. That makes taking fewer flights one of the fastest ways to reduce your environmental impact. When you can, meet virtually, take a train, or skip that long-distance trip altogether. Taking one less long-haul return flight can reduce your carbon footprint by up to almost 2 tons of carbon dioxide emission.

Switch to an electric vehicle

If you plan to buy a car, consider going electric, with more and cheaper models coming on the market. In many countries, electric cars help reduce air pollution and cause significantly fewer greenhouse gas emissions than gas or diesel-powered vehicles. But many electric cars still run on electricity produced from fossil fuels, and the batteries and engines require rare minerals which often come with high environmental and social costs. Switching from a gasoline or diesel-powered car to an electric vehicle can reduce your carbon footprint by up to 2 tons of carbon dioxide emission per year. A hybrid vehicle can save you up to 700 kilograms of CO2e per year.

Reduce, reuse, repair and recycle

Electronics, clothes, plastics and other items we buy cause carbon emissions at each point in production, from the extraction of raw materials to manufacturing and transporting goods to market. To protect the climate, buy fewer things, shop second-hand, and repair what you can. Plastics alone generated 1.8 billion metric tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions in 2019 – 3.4 percent of the global total. Less than 10 percent is recycled, and once plastic is discarded, it can linger for hundreds of years. Buying fewer new clothes – and other consumer goods – can also reduce your carbon footprint. Every kilogram of textiles produced generates about 17 kilograms of CO2

A big week for climate policy in Australia: what happened and what to make of it

Adam Morton

THE GUARDIAN NEWS

While Toyota falls in line on vehicle emission standards, questions are raised about ‘solar sunshot’ and carbon offsets

The Albanese government is attempting to pass legislation to change the rules on how much fossil fuel companies have to consult with Indigenous groups. Photograph: Dazman/Getty Images/iStockphoto

The news cycle moves fast. There was a cascade of climate news as the country slowed down for Easter last week.

Here’s some of what you might have seen, what you might have missed, and a look at what it means.

Gas industry bidding

There is an ongoing argument over changes that apply to the gas industry that the Albanese government attempted to force through last week. The details are complicated, but the main point is reasonably straightforward.

Gas companies want changes to rules governing the consultation they have to undertake with Indigenous groups before a development is approved.

Labor has spent significant effort trying to give the gas industry what it wants.

Backed by the Coalition, the government voted to cut short debate in the House of Representatives on a gas-related bill that mostly deals with worker safety. The legislation includes a clause that says gas developments that have been approved by the National Offshore Petroleum Safety and Environmental Management Authority (Nopsema), will be considered compliant with national environment law, even if that wouldn’t otherwise have been the case.

In recent years traditional owners in the Northern Territory and Western Australia have won landmark court cases overturning Nopsema approvals, forcing Santos and Woodside to consult with them further before developments could go ahead.

The gas industry, backed by the Coalition and some in the media, argued this was a failure of the system and that regulatory reform was needed to prevent people concerned about the climate crisis using legal action to slow extraction plans.

The resources minister, Madeleine King, agreed, and said her goal was to reduce “ambiguity” in consultation rules that led to legal delays. But the opposition – from First Nations advocates, conservationists, the Greens and other cross-bench MPs – has been pointed. Some Labor MPs were also alarmed.

King agreed to changes, including adding a 12-month sunset clause to the new rules. But opponents say the bottom line remains unaltered – that the government was making it simpler for gas developments to go ahead while it faced decisions on some major export developments that could lead to billions of tonnes of CO2 being pumped into the atmosphere.

There is obvious hypocrisy here. The government says it wants to help limit global heating to 1.5C and play its part in a transition away from fossil fuels, while setting up for a substantial expansion of gas production that’s clearly at odds with this goal. It hasn’t explained how these things add up beyond saying there will be demand for gas for some time. A logical goal for policymakers committed to 1.5C might be to prioritise reducing that demand while accelerating clean alternatives.

Of course, politics has its own logic. By the end of the week, the government had decided against trying to ram the legislation through the Senate, delaying the debate until at least May.

Cleaner cars (and less clean 4WDs)

The transport and climate ministers, Catherine King and Chris Bowen, finally revealed the design of the government’s proposed vehicle emissions standards.

The idea is that car companies will have to reduce the average emissions from the new cars they sell each year. It introduces an incentive for companies to sell cleaner models in greater numbers and varieties. Most comparable countries already have a version of this in place. Second-hand cars are not affected.

King and Bowen made changes to the preferred design included in a February consultation paper so that utes, vans and some 4WDs will make a gentler transition to zero emissions. According to government estimates, it lowers the estimated emissions cut from the policy by 2050 by 48m tonnes. Which is not nothing, but is a fairly small change over that timeframe.

Some climate campaigners said it showed the power of fossil fuel industries to lobby to get policies watered down. But electric vehicles manufacturers and conservation organisations were mostly sanguine, reasoning the government had initially proposed more than it ever intended to do, and that the changes were mostly tweaks.

The country’s transport emissions continue to increase, and this policy isn’t enough to fix that on its own. But it does propose a 60% cut in emissions intensity for new passenger cars and a 50% reduction for light commercial vehicles by 2030.

From the government’s perspective, the most significant shift may be Toyota’s about-face from opposing the design to last week lining up alongside Tesla and the Electric Vehicle Council as a supporter. Toyota owners – a big chunk of the car-driving market – are now less likely to be told this policy will be a disaster for their favourite brand.

A solar future?

The government also announced $1bn for a “solar sunshot” program – promised for subsidies and grants to help Australia gain a foothold in the solar manufacturing supply chain.

This seems optimistic. China basically owns this market globally and has much lower production costs. Bowen has spoken before about the importance of breaking this stranglehold. But Rod Sims, the former competition watchdog head who is now making the case for Australia to become a renewable energy superpower, told the Australian Financial Review he doubted this is an area in which the country could compete.

It may be more successful if focused on the solar supply chain, such as producing silicon, or other areas in which Australia has a potential advantage, such as producing green iron and steel.

The solar funding is the Albanese government’s latest attempt to capture a slice of the massive global green industry investment pie. More is promised in next month’s budget. Key questions to look for: will it be geared to Australia’s unique strengths? And can it avoid the failures of some past climate grant programs?

The reality of net zero

Australia faces a major challenge in helping its most fossil fuel-reliant centres and regions through the transition ahead.

Last week the government tabled legislation to create the Net Zero Economy Authority, which is proposed to help coordinate the country’s transformation from a dirty to a clean economy and make sure workers and communities are not left behind.

Greg Combet, the former Labor climate minister, who has been chairing work developing the authority, laid out the vision on Tuesday. He said it will need hundreds of billions in investment, including governments taking equity stakes in expensive and demanding projects.

Given the potential for social ruptures, getting the authority right is likely to prove as important as any of last week’s climate developments.

The problem with offsets

This is one the government would prefer not to talk about.

Peer-reviewed research by 11 Australian academics found the country’s main technique used to create carbon offsets was largely a failure and mostly not really drawing additional CO2 from the atmosphere as promised.

This matters because the country’s big polluters are using these offsets to claim they are reducing their pollution. This study says that isn’t actually happening. The ramifications if it is even partially correct are substantial.

These claims have been aired before, and have now have the endorsement of a journal in the Nature stable. They are yet to be properly addressed. At some point that will need to change.

World squanders over 1 billion meals a day - UN report

UN Environment Programme (UNEP)

Households across all continents wasted over 1 billion meals a day in 2022, while 783 million people were affected by hunger and a third of humanity faced food insecurity. Food waste continues to hurt the global economy and fuel climate change, nature loss, and pollution. These are the key findings of a UN Environment Programme (UNEP) report published today, ahead of the International Day of Zero Waste.

Photo Credit: Joshua Hoehne on Unsplash

The UNEP Food Waste Index Report 2024, co-authored with WRAP, provides the most accurate global estimate on food waste at retail and consumer levels. It provides guidance for countries on improving data collection and suggests best practices in moving from measuring to reducing food waste. 

In 2022 there were 1.05 billion tonnes of food waste generated (including inedible parts), amounting to 132 kilograms per capita and almost one-fifth of all food available to consumers. Out of the total food wasted in 2022, 60 per cent happened at the household level, with food services responsible for 28 per cent and retail 12 per cent.

“Food waste is a global tragedy. Millions will go hungry today as food is wasted across the world,” said Inger Andersen, Executive Director of UNEP. “Not only is this a major development issue, but the impacts of such unnecessary waste are causing substantial costs to the climate and nature. The good news is we know if countries prioritise this issue, they can significantly reverse food loss and waste, reduce climate impacts and economic losses, and accelerate progress on global goals.”

Since 2021, there’s been a strengthening of the data infrastructure with more studies tracking food waste. Globally, the number of data points at the household level almost doubled. Nevertheless, many low- and middle-income countries continue to lack adequate systems for tracking progress to meet Sustainable Development Goal 12.3 of halving food waste by 2030, particularly in retail and food services.

Only four G20 countries (Australia, Japan, UK, the USA) and the European Union have food waste estimates suitable for tracking progress to 2030. Canada and Saudi Arabia have suitable household estimates, with Brazil’s estimate expected late 2024. In this context, the report serves as a practical guide for countries to consistently measure and report food waste.

The data confirms that food waste is not just a ‘rich country’ problem, with levels of household food waste differing in observed average levels for high-income, upper-middle, and lower-middle-income countries by just 7 kg per capita. At the same time, hotter countries appear to generate more food waste per capita in households, potentially due to higher consumption of fresh foods with substantial inedible parts and a lack of robust cold chains.

According to recent data, food loss and waste generates 8-10 per cent of annual global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions – almost 5 times that of the aviation sector – and significant biodiversity loss by taking up the equivalent of almost a third of the world’s agricultural land. The toll of both food loss and waste on the global economy is estimated at roughly USD 1 trillion.

Urban areas are expected to particularly benefit from efforts to strengthen food waste reduction and circularity. Rural areas generally waste less food, with greater diversion of food scraps to pets, livestock, and home composting as likely explanations.

As of 2022, only 21 countries have included food loss and/or waste reduction in their national climate plans (NDCs). The 2025 NDCs revision process provides a key opportunity to raise climate ambition by integrating food loss and waste. The Food Waste Index Report underscores the urgency of addressing food waste at both individual and systemic levels.

Robust baselines and regular measurement are needed for countries to show changes over time. Thanks to implementation of policies and partnerships, countries such as Japan and the UK show that change at scale is possible, with reductions of 31 per cent and 18 per cent respectively.

“With the huge cost to the environment, society, and global economies caused by food waste, we need greater coordinated action across continents and supply chains. We support UNEP in calling for more G20 countries to measure food waste and work towards SDG12.3,” said Harriet Lamb, CEO of WRAP. “This is critical to ensuring food feeds people, not landfills. Public-Private Partnerships are one key tool delivering results today, but they require support: whether philanthropic, business, or governmental, actors must rally behind programmes addressing the enormous impact wasting food has on food security, our climate, and our wallets.”

UNEP maintains tracking country-level progress to halve food waste by 2030, with a growing focus on solutions beyond measurement towards reduction. One such solution is systemic action through public-private partnerships (PPPs): Bringing the public sector, private sector and non-government to work together, identify bottlenecks, co-develop solutions, and drive progress. Appropriate financing can enable PPPs to deliver farm-to-fork reductions in food waste, drive down GHGs emissions and water stress, while sharing best practices and encouraging innovation for long-term, holistic change. PPPs on food loss and waste are growing worldwide, including in Australia, Indonesia, Mexico, South Africa, and in the UK where they have helped cut over a quarter of household food waste per capita from 2007-18.

How Colombia’s electric buses are countering climate change and creating jobs for women

UN NEWS

A little over a year ago, Nidia Cely spotted a bright green public bus driving down the street in Bogota, Colombia. At the time, Cely had just lost her husband of 17 years to COVID-19 and was struggling to support her two teenage daughters as a delivery driver. 

In the bus, though, she saw hope. That is because it was driven by a woman, a rare site in Colombia. Cely would learn the vehicle was operated by La Rolita, a public transit firm in Bogota whose entire fleet is electric. 

About 18 months later, Cely landed a position driving one of those bright green buses, her first steady job. 

Nearly 480 female drivers work for La Rolita, which operates a fleet of 195 electric buses in Bogota, Colombia. Photo: La Rolita/Xiomi Garzon

“I am very happy to be in a great company where I feel supported and trusted,” she said recently. “I am grateful that I am now able to offer a better future to my daughters.” 

Cely is one of 479 female bus drivers who work for La Rolita, which operates a fleet of 195 buses. The company is considered a pioneer for two reasons: it is one of the world’s few all-electric public transport companies and it has made hiring women a priority. Just over 50 per cent of La Rolita’s workforce and 60 per cent of its drivers are women. 

La Rolita is in many ways a model firm in a world struggling with both spiralling greenhouse gas emissions and gender inequality, say observers. 

“Enhancing women's participation and leadership in electric mobility will be critical to securing a healthy, prosperous, and just transition to sustainable mobility and clean energy,” says Rob De Jong, Head of the Sustainable Mobility Unit with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).  

The organization is leading a project in Colombia designed to make the public transit system more gender-inclusive. 

High-emissions industry 

The global transport sector is responsible for 15 per cent of emissions of carbon dioxide, a potent greenhouse gas that is driving climate change. The industry’s emissions—which total 8.1 gigatonnes annually—are growing faster than any other sector and are set to double by 2050, largely on the back of increases in the Global South. 

Reining in those emissions is considered key to countering climate change. Switching to electric vehicles, promoting wider use of public transportation and better designing cities to require less travel, among other policies, could reduce all transportation emissions by more than 50 per cent. 

In Latin America, a growing number of cities are embracing electric transport. The region boasts 5,084 e-buses, constituting about 6 per cent of its bus fleet, according to E-Bus Radar, an online platform that tracks electric bus use. In Colombia, 11 per cent of buses are electric. The country’s capital, Bogota, is home to 1,485 electric buses, says María Fernanda Ortiz, manager of TransMillenio, the bus rapid transit system that serves Bogota and Soacha, a neighbouring city. 

In Latin America, a growing number of cities are embracing electric transport. The region boasts 5,084 e-buses, constituting about 6 per cent of its bus fleet. Photo: La Rolita/Xiomi Garzon

In 2023, Colombia joined a novel project launched by UNEP and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development. The initiative, which spans six countries, is designed to ensure a gender-inclusive shift to electric transport, creating jobs for women and ensuring public transit meets their needs. 

La Rolita’s emphasis on hiring women has proven life changing for Jessica Mosqueira. She left home as a teenager, becoming a young mother and struggling for more than a decade to make ends meet. That changed when she joined La Rolita and began driving one of the company’s buses. In September 2023, she received a certification that attests to her driving skills, a recognition she celebrated with her two daughters and her extended family, with whom she is beginning to reconnect. 

“I had been in a dark place,” says Mosqueira, who at one point almost lost custody of her daughters. “[But] I can now offer a better future to my children and show them that, in life, there are second chances.”  

Maria Eugenia Silva, a former waitress, joined La Rolita in 2022. She says she has found an ideal work-life balance thanks to the flexible hours the company offers its female employees. 

Silva says passengers are also happy with the company’s gender-diversity strategy: "People appreciate seeing a woman driving the buses. They say that we greet them with a smile."  

Push towards gender equality 

Globally, women hold less than 20 per cent of jobs in the transport sector, though Colombia has made strides in that area. 

“Gender equality is crucial to advance the environmental dimension of sustainable development,” says Juan Bello, UNEP’s Director for Latin America and the Caribbean. “Sustainable development will only be achieved when everyone has a voice and an opportunity to contribute fully to a greener and fairer world.” 

A key part of the UNEP-backed gender-diversity project is to compile information on how accessible transit is to women, their perceptions about safety and the success of gender-related transport policies. 

For many women, driving a bus for La Rolita was their first steady job. Photo: La Rolita/Xiomi Garzon

“This data is crucial for early identification and rectification of inequalities,” said Melissa Valencia Duque, a researcher at Colombia’s Pereira Technological University, which is involved in the project. “By focusing on access to services and employment rights, we can foster an industry that grows without conventional gender gaps.” 

The initiative is part of the UNEP-led Global Electric Mobility Programme, which helps 60 low- and middle-income countries in their shift to electric transit. The programme has provided over US$130 million in grants and other loan amounts at national, regional and global levels, part of an effort to jumpstart the transition away from fossil fuels. That shift is especially important in Latin America and the Caribbean, where 40 per cent of all carbon dioxide emissions come from the transport sector. 

“The large-scale introduction of e-mobility will bring systemic changes in the way transport systems are planned, operated and used, and will provide an opportunity to integrate aspects of gender inclusiveness,” says UNEP’s De Jong. “This will provide the opportunity to use the transition to transform cities away from car- and male-centred transport systems into zero-emission, accessible transport systems.” 

Geologists reject declaration of Anthropocene epoch

Damian Carrington
GUARDIAN NEWS

Critics say it is a missed chance to recognise that the planet irrevocably left its natural state in the mid-20th century

A sample from the Crawford sinkhole lake in Canada shows deposits some scientists argued should be the reference point for the start of the Anthropocene. Photograph: Peter Power/AFP/Getty Images

The guardians of the world’s official geological timescale have firmly rejected a proposal to declare an Anthropocene epoch, after an epic academic row.

The proposal would have designated the period from 1952 as the Anthropocene to reflect the planet-changing impact of humanity. It would have ended the Holocene epoch, the 11,700 years of stable climate since the last ice age and during which human civilisation arose.

The International Union of Geological Sciences (IUGS) has announced, however, that geologists have rejected the idea in a series of votes. Those objecting noted a much longer history of human impacts on Earth, including the dawn of agriculture and the industrial revolution, and unease about including a new unit in the geological timescale with a span of less than less than a single human lifetime, it said. Most units span thousands or millions of years.

It also acknowledged: “The Anthropocene as a concept will continue to be widely used not only by Earth and environmental scientists, but also by social scientists, politicians and economists, as well as by the public at large. As such, it will remain an invaluable descriptor in human-environment interactions.”

The Anthropocene working group (AWG), which was formed by the Subcommission on Quaternary Stratigraphy (SQS), in turn part of the IUGS, took 15 years to develop the proposal. It concluded that the radioactive isotopes spread worldwide by hydrogen bomb tests were the best marker of humanity’s transformation of the planet. Geological time units also need a specific location to typify the unit and the Crawford sinkhole lake in Canada was chosen.

An aerial view of the Crawford sinkhole lake in Ontario, Canada. Photograph: Peter Power/AFP/Getty Images

An SQS vote in February rejected the proposal by 12 to four, but its chair, Prof Jan Zalasiewicz of the University of Leicester, who backed it, said the vote had not followed the rules. The IUGS, however, has now announced that in the next stage of the process the chairs of its 17 subcommissions endorsed the negative SQS vote almost unanimously, with 15 votes, one abstention and one person who did not vote. This final decision cannot be appealed against.

“Although the proposal has been decisively rejected, the AWG has performed an important service to the scientific community by assembling a wide body of data on human impacts on global systems, and this database will be an essential source of reference well into the future,” the IUGS said.

Zalasiewicz said: “The IUGS ruling means that the Anthropocene will confusingly continue to represent widely different concepts. This has been a missed opportunity to recognise and endorse a clear and simple reality, that our planet left its natural functioning state, sharply and irrevocably, in the mid-20th century. A myriad of geological signals reflect this fact.”

Global water shortages are looming. Here is what can be done about them

UN NEWS

Spanish officials declare a state of emergency due to drought. Unprecedented water shortages hammer Mexico City. Severely parched Zambia warns of a national disaster.  

These are just some of the water-related headlines from the past few weeks. 

They are all symptoms of a world facing what experts call a water crisis. At least 50 per cent of the planet’s population – 4 billion people – deal with water shortfalls at least one month of the year. By 2025, 1.8 billion people are likely to face what the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) calls “absolute water scarcity.” 

In the face of that, the United Nations Environment Assembly passed a resolution earlier this month that calls for countries to better manage aquatic ecosystems and strengthen their collaboration around water to support sustainable development. Drought resilience will also be a focus of World Environment Day 2024, hosted by Saudi Arabia. 

“Solutions are within reach,” says Leticia Carvalho, Principal Coordinator of the Freshwater and Marine Ecosystems Branch at the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). "But we need innovative thinking, greater political commitment and collaboration, and increased financing so that when it comes to water, no one is left behind.”  

World Water Day, on 22 March, will shine a spotlight on the global water crisis, which is being driven by a combination of factors, from climate change to leaky pipes. Ahead of that international observance, here is a look at seven things countries and individuals can do to stem water shortfalls. 

1. Protect and restore natural spaces 

The ecosystems that supply humanity with fresh water are disappearing at an alarming rate. Wetlands, peatlands, forested catchment areas, lakes, rivers and groundwater aquifers are falling victim to climate change, overexploitation and pollution. This is undermining their ability to provide communities with water. These natural spaces urgently need to be protected and those that have been degraded, revived through large-scale restoration. Countries would be well served to develop specific, measurable targets for this work. Nations would ideally weave those goals into national plans to counter climate change, protect biodiversity,  and avoid drought and desertification. This work is especially important for securing water supplies for cities, many of which are suffering from water shortages. 

2. Be more efficient with water, especially for farming  

Agriculture accounts for some 70 per cent of all fresh water used globally. Adopting water-saving food production methods, such as hydroponics, drip irrigation and agroforestry, can help water reserves stretch further. Also helpful: encouraging people to switch to plant-based diets, which generally require less water than those based around meat. Beef, for example, is thought to have one of the biggest water footprints, requiring as much as 15,000 litres of water to produce a kilo of meat.  

3. Deal with water leaks 

Being efficient also means reducing the amount of water lost through leaky municipal infrastructure and building piping. There are no global data for the amount of water lost this way but national numbers suggest the total is massive. In the United States of America alone, household leaks waste nearly 1 trillion gallons of water per year.  

“Solutions are within reach. But we need innovative thinking, greater political commitment and collaboration and increased financing so that when it comes to water, no one is left behind.

”

— Leticia Carvalho

4. Exploit unconventional water sources 

As supplies of lake, river and aquifer water dwindle, countries will need to get creative. This means taking advantage of undervalued water resources, such as by treating and reusing wastewater. Countries and communities can also implement rainwater harvesting, which involves collecting and storing water for use in dry spells. Desalinating saltwater is also an option in some places if done sustainably. The problem: the process often leads to the discharge of toxic brine into the ocean and increased greenhouse gas emissions from the energy required to fuel the process.  

5. Track water quality  

Often, water is plentiful but is too polluted to be useful for drinking, manufacturing or recreation. Measuring water quality can help policymakers prioritize actions to clean up water sources. This evaluation can be complemented by satellite data, artificial intelligence and even citizen science. UNEP’s Freshwater Ecosystems Explorer provides decision-makers with water quality data, helping to spur action to protect and restore freshwater ecosystems. 

6. Blend smart water management with climate change policies 

Climate change is affecting rainfall patterns, aquatic habitats and the availability of good quality water. At the same time, peatlands and other watery carbon warehouses are being degraded, causing planet-warming emissions to spike and compounding climate change. To manage this destructive feedback loop,  countries must emphasize the protection and restoration of carbon sinks. They should also harmonize their strategies for managing water with their policies for limiting and adapting to climate change. 

7. Apply integrated approaches in decision-making  

Decisions about water cannot be made in a vacuum. Water is a key component in everything from power generation to industrial manufacturing to farming. So, countries must develop action plans that address water use and pollution across multiple sectors, tackling what experts call the water-energy-food-ecosystems nexus. This approach can help countries adopt coherent responses to water-related challenges while maximizing things like food production and energy generation. 

‘Historic milestone’ as child mortality hits record low of 4.9 million in 2022

The fight against child mortality has reached an historic milestone the UN announced on Wednesday with latest estimates revealing the number of children dying prematurely before their fifth birthday fell to 4.9 million in 2022.

© UNICEF/Patricia Willocq A five-month-old child receives a vaccine at a health centre in Alta Verapaz, Guatemala.

Figures released by the UN Interagency Group for Child Mortality Estimation (UN IGME) reveal the global under-five mortality rate has declined by 51 per cent since 2000.

Some countries such as Cambodia, Malawi, Mongolia and Rwanda reduced under-five mortality rate by over 75 per cent over the time period.

UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell praised the dedicated efforts of midwives, health workers and community health workers, whose commitment has contributed to the remarkable decline.

“Through decades of commitment by individuals, communities and nations to reach children with low-cost, quality and effective health services, we’ve shown that we have the knowledge and tools to save lives,” she said.

The UN IGME was formed in 2004 to share data and enhance methods for child mortality estimates, tracking progress made towards child survival goals. It is led by UNICEF and comprises the World Health Organization (WHO), the World Bank Group and the Population Division at the UN Department for Economic and Social Affairs (DESA).

Long road ahead

Despite these gains, the report noted there is still a long way to go to end all preventable child and teen deaths, as millions continue to die from treatable causes, including preterm birth complications, pneumonia, diarrhoea and malaria.

The majority of these deaths occur in sub-Saharan Africa and southern Asia, highlighting regional disparities in access to quality healthcare.

The report also noted that economic instability, conflicts, climate change and the lingering impact of the COVID-19 pandemic are continuing to undermine progress and exacerbate existing disparities in mortality rates.

“While there has been welcome progress, every year millions of families still suffer the devastating heartbreak of losing a child, often in the very first days after birth,” said Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General.

“Where a child is born should not dictate whether they live or die. It is critical to improve access to quality health services for every woman and child, including during emergencies and in remote areas.”

Critical frontline responders

Improving access to quality health services and saving children’s lives from preventable deaths requires investment in education, jobs and decent working conditions for health workers to deliver primary health care, including community health workers.

Juan Pablo Uribe, Global Director for Health, Nutrition and Population at the World Bank, emphasized the need to accelerate progress.

“We owe it to all children to ensure they have access to the same healthcare and opportunities, regardless of where they are born.”

World Sustainability Conference Concludes with a Call for Action

Adekunle Owolabi

The 2023 World Sustainability Conference, hosted by The Green Institute and the HeTa Food Research Centre of Excellence at the University of Birmingham, concluded on a high note, with participants emphasizing the need for continued interdisciplinary collaboration to address global sustainability challenges.

The conference, held in a hybrid format, brought together a diverse array of experts from academia, industry, and government to explore the theme “Harnessing the Intersection of Food, Water, and Energy for a Sustainable Future.”

Innovative Paper Submissions and Discussions

The conference featured a range of paper submissions across multiple sub-themes: Education, Environment, Equity, Energy, and Economics. These papers highlighted innovative approaches in areas such as sustainable agriculture education, water conservation, renewable energy, and sustainable economic development. The diversity of topics underscored the multifaceted nature of sustainability challenges in the 21st century.

Distinguished Speakers and Panellists

• Panel 1 offered in-depth discussions on Circular Economy strategies, led by experts like Dr. Taghi Miri and Dr. Zainab T. A. Al-Sharify.

• Key Presentations included Dr. Taridi Ridho’s examination of sustainable finance, Farah Attallah’s analysis of sustainable business models in healthcare NGOs, and Garima Singh’s study on the impact of climate change on urban food security.

Additional presentations covered a wide range of topics, from Prof. Tochukwu Nwagu’s research on mango kernel seed valorisation to Dr. Nikos Chatzistamoulou’s insights into SMEs’ sustainability commitments.

Highlighting Key Addresses

The conference featured a special address by Dr. Lubna Khamis Mahdi, representing the Iraqi Minister for Education, and a keynote speech by Professor Fiona Nunan, focusing on collaborative approaches for harmonizing livelihood and environmental conservation.

Outcomes and Future Directions

The conference concluded with reflective remarks from Dr. Adenike A. Akinsemolu, Dr. Taghi Miri, Dr. Zainab T. A. Al-Sharify and Dr. Helen N. Onyeaka. Participants and organizers emphasized the need for continued interdisciplinary collaboration and the application of the insights gained to real-world sustainability challenges.

Continuing the Conversation

The University of Birmingham and The Green Institute, encouraged by the success of the conference, aim to maintain the momentum through continued research, collaboration, and dialogue. The insights and connections forged at this event are expected to catalyse further innovative solutions and partnerships in the realm of sustainability.

From tree planting to ‘sponge cities’: why nature-based solutions are crucial to fighting the climate crisis

Patrick Greenfield

Nature could hold the key to protecting humanity as the planet heats, but scientists say it is still an underused option

The natural world underpins human civilisation on every corner of the planet. From oceans to rainforests, grasslands to mangrove swamps, ecosystems feed billions of humans, produce clean water and provide materials for shelter. As the planet heats, scientists and conservationists are urging the world to harness and restore nature to maintain a habitable planet.

What is a nature-based solution?

Nature-based solutions is an umbrella term for using the power of nature to mitigate the impact of climate change while benefiting biodiversity and human wellbeing. There are thousands of examples: planting trees to shield buildings from heat; restoring wetlands to create “sponge cities” that protect people from flooding; planting mangroves to hold back storm surges in coastal regions.

Scientists say they are a cheap and underused option for protecting humanity from the environmental crises of the 21st century, improving food and water security, human health, and shielding communities from extreme weather.

Why do we need them?

The Paris agreement is not just about limiting global heating. It also includes commitments on mitigation and adaptation to a hotter world where flooding, droughts and large storms will be more common and intense due to higher concentrations of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere from fossil fuels.

Nature can help keep us safe from the worst effects in many cases. For example, in many parts of the world, rainfall is expected to become irregular, raining too much then raining too little. Using nature to hold more water in the landscape, whether that be through expanding wetlands or even reintroducing beavers near urban areas so their dams can slow the flow of water, can improve resilience to both drought and flooding.

Why does biodiversity matter so much?

Many scientists warn that human behaviour is driving the sixth mass extinction of life on Earth, with 1 million species at risk of disappearing. This, in turn, is degrading the planet’s ability to support human life and wellbeing.

By definition, resilient and complete ecosystems are full of plants, animals and other organisms that their degraded and simplified equivalents lack. For example, a plantation of a single tree species supports much less life, stores much less carbon and provides a fraction of the environmental benefits compared to an old growth forest that has stood for thousands of years.

If climate solutions do not harness the full richness of nature, they will often be less effective and provide far fewer benefits. As such, sometimes the simplest and most effective solution is making sure a complete ecosystem remains standing.

Forest fires in Portugal. Photograph: Patrícia de Melo Moreira/AFP/Getty Images

There are dozens of examples that demonstrate the importance of biodiversity and how it can be harnessed. In the Portuguese interior, which is a landscape dominated by non-native eucalyptus plantations that has experienced deadly wildfires, communities are planting slow-burning native tree and plant species near towns and villages to help minimise damage and keep people safe from future infernos.

How much can they help?

Nature can play a significant role in mitigating and adapting to the climate crisis. The oceans and land absorb more than half of all human greenhouse gas emissions every year and many researchers think they could do even more as the world decarbonises. But their ability to do so is itself threatened by climate breakdown, with enormous rainforests such as the Amazon at risk of collapse.

One recent study on the world’s forests found the equivalent of 50 years of US emissions could be sucked down by letting them grow old and restoring degraded ecosystems. But there are significant caveats: the scientists caution that mass monoculture tree-planting, and using them as carbon offsets, will not help forests realise their potential. And there are uncertainties about how the natural world will react to a hotter planet.

Are nature-based solutions an alternative to cutting emissions?

No. Climate breakdown is in itself a threat to nature and a major driver of biodiversity loss. Nature’s ability to help us adapt and mitigate global heating is likely to degrade as we emit more greenhouse gases.

What role will they play at Cop28?

Many countries are using nature as part of their contributions to the Paris agreement target to limit global heating to well below 2C above pre industrial levels. Companies big and small are funding nature-based solutions to meet their sustainability targets, which they are often keen to display at the yearly climate summit.

Cop28 will have specific dates dedicated to nature and food, where nature and nature-based solutions are likely to be prominent.

On World Toilet Day: Stakeholders Call For Increased Collaboration To Ensure Equitable Access To Water, Sanitation And Hygiene

Leading sustainability experts have called for urgent infrastructure investments to ensure adequate access to Water Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) for all, in accordance with Goal 6 of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The recommendation was made at the 2023 International Conference on Environmental Law and Governance for Sustainable Development, convened at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library in commemoration of the World Toilet Day.

The event, jointly organized by the International Law Association (ILA) Committee on Natural Resources, Energy and Environment (NREEL); the University of Bradford School of Law, the Green Institute, the Institute for Oil, Gas, Energy, Environment and Sustainable Development (OGEES Institute), Afe Babalola University, and the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, brought together over 400 participants from diverse sectors.

The conference was declared open by the conference co-chairs Prof. Damilola Olawuyi, SAN, President of the International Law Association, Nigerian Branch, and Prof. Engobo Emeseh, Head of the School of Law at the University of Bradford.  Dr. Jane Bevan, Chief of WASH at  UNICEF Nigeria emphasized the necessity of increased investment in sanitation to combat the current trend of underfunding in this vital sector. She applauded Jigawa State for achieving an open defecation-free status by significantly increasing its WASH budget. While welcoming attendees on behalf of the ILA, the Chairperson of the ILA NREEL Committee, Oluwaseyi Ebenezer emphasized the important role of international law in advancing SDG 6 and encouraged all attendees to join the ILA in advancing its work on WASH access in Nigeria.

Panel 1, led by Dr. Adenike Akinsemolu, Head of Green and Sustainability at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library and Director of the Green Institute, focused on financing universal access to water, with contributions from Professor Omoniyi Akinola, Senator Prince Lanre Tejuoso, and Ms. Ololade Oloniyo. Dr. Pedi Obani from the University of Bradford explored the topic of adjudicating universal access to water sanitation and hygiene.

Panel 2, moderated by Yetunde Salako, Project Coordinator, Green and Sustainability Unit, Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, focused on building partnerships for Universal Access to Water, featuring Dr. Igwe Nicholas, MD/CEO of Zenith Water Projects and National Coordinator of OPS-WASH Nigeria, and Mr. Nyananso Ekanem, Managing Consultant of Weir Capacity Ltd.

Panel 3, addressing the societal impacts of open defecation, featured student representatives like Animashaun Tobi Ridwan (Bells University of Technology), Akinbode Atinuke Victoria (Chrisland University), Emmanuel Akin-Ademola (Adekunle Ajasin University), and Hajara Baba Yaro (Homaj School, Ondo). This panel was adeptly moderated by Mr. Adediran Abraham.

A highlight of the conference was the inaugural Prof. Damilola S. Olawuyi, SAN Debate Competition. The competition, held in honour of the frontline international environmental law expert and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, focused on the government’s role versus individual responsibility in ensuring access to clean water and sanitation. Esteemed judges like Dr. Bridget Akintewe, Olori Olanike-Ogunleye and Dr. Rev. Femi Olajide assessed the debates. This competition saw the participation of various secondary school students who demonstrated their debating prowess on the critical and timely topic.

The conference concluded with a unanimous recognition of water and sanitation as fundamental human rights and the need for strong environmental laws and governance. The importance of political will, innovative funding, international collaboration, public awareness, and legal frameworks in environmental sustainability were highlighted. The discussions during the event underscore the collective responsibility and urgency in addressing the environmental challenges in WASH through legal, educational, and practical approaches. The speakers and participants of this conference have shown a committed resolve to continue this vital work towards a sustainable and equitable future.

UNICEF, Nigerian leaders advocate enhanced WASH investment at environmental conference

The 2023 International Conference on Environmental Law and Governance for Sustainable Development, held at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, brought critical attention to Nigeria’s urgent need for improved water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) infrastructure.

Dr Jane Bevan of UNICEF’s WASH programme emphasised the necessity of increased investment in sanitation to combat the current trend of underfunding in this vital sector.

She applauded Jigawa State for achieving an open defecation-free status by significantly increasing its WASH budget.

Dr Adenike Akinsemolu, Head of Green and Sustainability at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library and Director of the Green Institute was instrumental in organising this event, which was a collaborative effort involving notable institutions like the Institute for Oil, Gas, Energy, Environment, and Sustainable Development (OGEES Institute) at Afe Babalola University, the University of Bradford, and the International Law Association’s Nigerian Branch.

Chief (Mrs) Bola Obasanjo, Special Guest of Honour, underscored the importance of maintaining cleanliness and hygiene for health and well-being, reflecting on the evolution of water and sanitation practises over the years.

The conference featured several panels with expert discussions. Panel 1, led by Dr Akinsemolu, focused on financing universal access to water, with contributions from Professor Omoniyi Akinola, Senator Prince Lanre Tejuoso, and Ms. Ololade Oloniyo.

Dr Pedi Obani from the School of Law at the University of Bradford explored the topic of adjudicating universal access to water sanitation and hygiene.

A highlight of the conference was Panel 3, which addressed the societal impacts of open defecation and featured student representatives like Animashaun Tobi Ridwan (Bells University of Technology) and Hajara Baba Yaro (Homaj School). This panel was adeptly moderated by Mr. Adediran Abraham.

The inaugural Prof. Damilola S. Olawuyi SAN Debate Prize focused on the government’s role versus individual responsibility in ensuring access to clean water and sanitation. Esteemed judges like Dr Bridget Akintewe, Olori Olanike-Ogunleye, and Dr Rev. Femi Olajide assessed the debates.

Opening remarks from co-chairs Prof. Damilola Olawuyi, President of the International Law Association, Nigerian Branch, and Prof. Engobo Emeseh, Head of the School of Law at the University of Bradford, set the stage for a day of meaningful dialogue.

This conference highlighted the critical necessity for enhanced focus and funding towards WASH initiatives, rallying a collective call for sustainable water, sanitation, and hygiene solutions for all Nigerians.

Making Solar Energy as Clean as Can Be Means Fitting Square Panels Into the Circular Economy

As solar projects surge nationwide, the demand is increasing for recycling solutions that will keep photovoltaic panels out of landfills and their energy-producing elements in the sun.

Reusable solar panel frames are stacked and bundled at We Recycle Solar in Yuma, Arizona, on August 8, 2023. Credit: Emma Peterson.

Even for the most enthusiastic boosters of renewable energy, it’s hard to argue that solar panels provide truly clean electricity if, at the end of their lives, many of them end up in landfills.

But keeping solar cells out of the dump requires a market for recycled solar materials that is much more robust than what currently exists and policies that incentivize companies to recycle their panels and use recycled materials when they’re building new ones. Still, for many experts, the first step in creating such a “circular economy” in which decommissioned solar components are repurposed in new ones, is to prohibit the disposal of solar panels in landfills at all. 

“We have to come together and say, ‘there’s absolutely no landfill policy.’ Let’s start there,” said Adam Saghei, CEO of We Recycle Solar, one of the nation’s only utility-scale solar recycling companies, which is based in Yuma, Arizona.

To keep panels out of landfills, the company prioritizes reusing PV panels that still have life in them. They put about 60 percent of the whole panels that come through their doors back on the market, often for about half their original price. Of the remaining 69 million pounds of material they receive in a year, 99 percent can be taken apart and recycled back into the supply chain, Saghei said.

Energy upgrades and changes in regulatory standards often cause businesses to decommission their solar projects long before they’ve exhausted their ability to generate electricity. The solar industry has found that there is indeed a market for used solar panels. A 300-watt panel may not suit the needs for a large company over time, Saghei said, but can help an RV owner, for example, power their home on wheels, where it could continue producing electricity for more than a decade. Reused panels go through an extensive quality control process before being sold at a discounted rate to their customers. 

“It’s a win-win for everybody,” he said.

Creating a Circular Economy

The majority of panels sent to recycling centers will come from decommissioned, large-scale projects like solar farms or commercial rooftop buildings, according to Saghei. 

The first step in the process is to check for reuse potential. Technology like photo luminescence can scan for cracks or other integrity issues. Panels that are still in sound condition can be resold to someone who can put their remaining capacity to generate electricity to use.

Whatever can’t be resold then goes through the materials separating process, with recycling companies striving to recover as much of the metals, like copper, as possible. Pieces are then sold to a secondary market or brokers for fine or nonferrous metal. 

Having a circular economy in the solar industry means businesses will recycle as much as they can from panels being retired, extending the component materials’ life cycles and reducing overall waste. But as most of the technology to refine elements from decommissioned solar panels is still in its beginning stages, separating more valuable materials from other parts of the old components is difficult. 

Take the glass in a solar panel. It makes up 80 percent of most solar panel’s weight, but it is difficult to maintain a high enough quality of glass throughout the recycling process to be able to sell it to glass companies for reuse, experts said. Many companies are looking for other options in which imperfect glass blends can be used in glass sandblasting, for example, as a way to recycle the panels even when materials have mixed. Essentially, the more pure the glass can be kept during the separation stage, the greater opportunity companies then have to recycle it into new products. 

For Saghei, glass recycling is a great example of reusing materials that can’t stay in the solar panel industry. Partnering with other companies that can also benefit from what would otherwise be considered waste is something he encourages in order to stretch out the use of panels and ultimately protect the environment. 

“We don’t have to mine a quarry. We don’t have to go out and disrupt the ecosystem,” he said. “We can take that raw material, and put it back into use.”

Solar inverters are pulled apart to recover their fine metals at at We Recycle Solar. Credit: Emma Peterson.

At We Recycle Solar in Yuma, Arizona, workers feed panels into a machine that separates the electricity-generating components from the panels’ frames. Credit: Emma Peterson.

New Policies Needed to Incentivize Recycling 

But glass is just one problem, and one that is easier to solve than some others, like the cost disparity between recycling solar panels and sending them to the dump. 

It currently costs about $5 to put a panel into a landfill, compared to $20 to recycle it, said Taylor Curtis, regulatory and policy analyst at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory. 

It doesn’t help that there are no government incentives to promote recycling the panels. While many industry workers are hopeful that will change soon after recent investments by the U.S. Department of Energy into more efficient recycling technology, they believe that because of the pure cost of going greener, new policies must come into play to make that happen.

“There’s no real incentive to recycle right now based on our current regulatory structure,” Curtis said. “There’s really a need for a policy that is designed to incentivize recycling over disposal to kind of help overcome some of those market challenges.” 

Current federal regulations treat disposal of panels and recycling them the same, leading to regulations that may be stricter than needed for recycling, she said.

That’s causing issues. Because some solar panels are made with lead, they are labeled as hazardous materials and subject to regulation that limits how many panels can be stored at a facility and for how long. Assuming each panel weighs 50 pounds, Curtis said a recycling facility can only store up to 264 of them a month. That makes transporting them more expensive because not enough can be shipped out be cost effective, she said, and prevents a site from storing enough of them to make their recycling into an economy of scale. 

Just how hazardous the lead is is debatable, Curtis said, largely due to the lack of information on just how much lead there is in different solar panels built by various companies. It’s a double-edged sword, Saghei said, because panels’ hazardous classifications create clear obstacles to their recycling, but can also drive policies that keep them out of landfills and the environment.

Stacks of solar panels wait to begin the recycling/reuse process at We Recycle Solar in Yuma, Arizona, on August 8, 2023. Credit: Emma Peterson.

Before solar panels begin to be decommissioned en masse, policymakers and the industry will need to find solutions to these problems. Fortunately for the industry, there’s time to figure out new solutions and policies to better recycle solar panels. The average life of a solar panel is between 30 and 40 years, but “82 percent of all solar panels installed today are seven years old or less,” Curtis said. Very rarely are solar panels seriously damaged so most of them can be expected to last for at least another decade or so before reaching the end of their lifespans.

Until the industry can create a circular economy, solar energy will only be 50 percent green, said Meng Tao, a professor at Arizona State University and a leading researcher on systems to recycle solar components. But researchers and companies are getting better at recycling the materials, and he expects eventually 90 to 95 percent of a panel’s weight will be able to be recycled. 

Some companies are already nearing that number. Suvi Sharma, CEO and cofounder of Solarcycle, said they are able to recover 95 percent of the materials brought into their recycling shop. The company is working on technology that will recycle glass from old panels into new solar glass and more effective methods of separating the metals from solar components, which Sharma said are the most important materials. 

”Metals in the panel like the silicon, the silver and the copper are actually less than 3 percent of the panel by weight, but they are more than half of the value of the panel,” he said.

Solarcycle will be opening a lab in Mesa, Arizona soon, where it expects to be part of a hot spot of solar projects and engineering talent. That could lead Arizonans to be concerned about solar recycling’s utilization of water, but Sharma and Saghei contend that there is very little water use during these operations, generally only used to clean parts before separating materials. 

Sharma said they are in the business of developing more efficient ways to deal with more types of panels, and those that others might consider mangled beyond use, both of which will be necessary as the U.S. continues to expand solar projects and eventually decommissions those currently operating. 

“We’re expecting more than 640 gigawatts to be installed in the next 10 years,” Curtis said, “That’s nearly five times what is installed today.”

Sharma said that Solarcycle is already starting to receive the first wave of old solar panels at their facility. Their overarching goal is to keep these panels out of the landfill. 

“We’re seeing more and more people step up,” said Saghei. “I think that when you do something for the right reason, everything else falls into place.”

Africa’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) progress uneven, requires accelerated efforts to meet the 2030 deadline – report

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Africa’s progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the African Union’s Agenda 2063 aspirations has been uneven, with significant differences among subregions, countries, and rural and urban areas. This calls for accelerated efforts to ensure that Africa achieves the global goals by the 2030 deadline, the latest Africa Sustainable Development report has stated.

The 2023 report, titled “Accelerating the recovery from the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and the full implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and African Union Agenda 2063 at all levels”, was released on the margins of the 78th United Nations General Assembly. It was produced by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the African Union Commission (AUC), the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), and the African Development Bank.

The report assessed Africa’s progress in implementing five main SDGs, highlighting progress, the challenges, and the numerous opportunities for improving Africa’s development prospects. Its findings suggest steady progress on key SDG targets, particularly on 4G mobile network coverage, and access to potable water and electricity.

“Africa’s steady progress on the SDGs is commendable. It is heartening to learn that the continent is on track to achieving some targets, particularly the goals related to innovation and technology, which are powerful enablers for advancing sustainable development,” noted Ms Ahunna Eziakonwa, Assistant Administrator and Regional Director for Africa, UNDP.

The report warns that although Africa is progressing toward achieving the SDGs, the number of on-track targets is less than those requiring acceleration or reversal. It calls for timely interventions to accelerate countries’ progress on key SDGs and the Agenda 2063 aspirations, goals, and targets.  

António Pedro, Acting Executive Secretary of ECA, stated: “Africa must create green growth by adding value to its green minerals. This green growth through green minerals must be central to Africa’s SDG rescue strategy. Africa also needs scaled-up concessional financing to regain momentum on the SDGs and the Agenda 2063.”

Albert M. Muchanga, Commissioner for Trade and Industry of the African Union Commission, called for improved communication between parties working on Africa’s sustainable development. “The time has come for the Agenda 2063, the 2030 Agenda, and the African Development Bank’s ‘High 5’ (https://apo-opa.info/3OiFCJL) agenda to be aligned to make it easier for member states to domesticate,” he reiterated.

Gerald Esambe Njume, Principal Climate Change and Green Growth Officer at the African Development Bank said: “Harnessing Africa’s green growth opportunities requires significant efforts in putting forward a strategic vision and governance structure, ensuring sectoral planning, allocating adequate budgetary resources, and establishing sound institutional and coordination arrangements.”

Key findings: 

• On SDG 6 (clean water and sanitation), African countries have improved access to safely managed drinking water services, but a significant disparity remains between rural and urban areas. Three in five Africans, or 411 million people, still lack safely managed drinking water. Also, only Egypt and Tunisia out of the 48 countries assessed are on track to achieve universal basic sanitation by 2030. The report calls on African countries to invest in water, sanitation, and hygiene infrastructure and to strengthen integrated water resource management capacity.

• On affordable and clean energy (SDG 7), the report finds that electrification rates have increased, but the use of clean cooking fuels and technologies remains limited. Also, the shift from non-renewable to renewable energy is slow. The report calls for funding increases for infrastructure and technology to boost sustainable power generation across Africa.

• For innovation, industry, and infrastructure (SDG 9), the report reveals that Africa is on track in terms of its mobile network coverage, and based on current trends, the continent will meet the relevant Goal 9 target by 2030. The report, therefore, calls for the acceleration of rural road construction and expansion to achieve rural connectivity and regional integration to bridge the urban-rural divide. According to the report, this will advance intra-African trade and thus facilitate the full implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement.

• Regarding sustainable cities and communities (SDG 11), the report’s findings suggest a modest overall decline in the share of Africans living in urban slums. It recommends greater investment in infrastructure to improve access to public transport, waste management and air quality in African cities.

• Concerning partnerships (SDG 17), mobilizing funding remains challenging for African countries. The report calls for higher domestic resource mobilization and efforts to address debt vulnerabilities.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Methanosarcina barkeri: Harnessing Methane for Sustainable Energy and Environmental Solutions

The Green Methane-Munching Microbe Transforming Renewable Resources

1. Introduction
   Methanosarcina barkeri, the methane-munching microbe, is a powerhouse in the realm of sustainable energy and environmental solutions. Discover the incredible capabilities of this organism and its potential to transform renewable resources.

2. Methane Conversion Specialist
   Methanosarcina barkeri possesses a unique ability to consume methane, a potent greenhouse gas, as its primary energy source. This microbe plays a critical role in mitigating methane emissions and harnessing its energy potential.

3. Biogas Production
   By harnessing the power of Methanosarcina barkeri, biogas production becomes a reality. This microbe efficiently converts organic waste, such as agricultural residues and wastewater, into biogas, a renewable energy source. By utilizing Methanosarcina barkeri, we can transform waste into clean energy and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

4. Anaerobic Digestion Enhancement
   Methanosarcina barkeri is a key player in anaerobic digestion, a process used to break down organic matter in the absence of oxygen. This microbe contributes to the breakdown of complex organic compounds, producing biogas and valuable by-products like organic fertilizers. It enhances the efficiency and effectiveness of anaerobic digestion systems.

5. Carbon Capture and Utilization
   Methanosarcina barkeri offers a potential solution for carbon capture and utilization. By capturing and converting methane, it helps reduce its release into the atmosphere and transforms it into a valuable energy resource. This microbe supports the transition towards a low-carbon economy.

6. Environmental Remediation
   Methanosarcina barkeri has applications in environmental remediation. It can assist in the degradation of organic pollutants, including petroleum hydrocarbons, in contaminated soil and water. By leveraging its capabilities, we can restore and rehabilitate polluted environments.

7. Sustainable Future
   Let's celebrate Methanosarcina barkeri and its vital contributions to sustainable energy production and environmental conservation. Together, we can harness the power of this methane-munching microbe and pave the way for a greener and more sustainable future.

Debaryomyces hansenii: The Microbial Master Preserving Food and Promoting Sustainability

The Green Yeast That Safeguards Food Quality and Reduces Food Waste

1. Introduction
   Debaryomyces hansenii, the microbial master of food preservation, plays a vital role in safeguarding food quality and contributing to sustainability. Explore the incredible abilities of this yeast and its impact on reducing food waste.

2. Food Preservation Expert
   Debaryomyces hansenii excels in inhibiting the growth of spoilage organisms in various food products. Its antimicrobial properties prevent the development of unwanted molds and bacteria, extending the shelf life of perishable foods and reducing food waste.

3. Salt-Tolerant Champion
   Debaryomyces hansenii thrives in high-salt environments, making it an ideal candidate for the preservation of salted foods. It contributes to the unique flavors and textures of products like salted fish, cheese, and fermented vegetables. This yeast's resilience enables the production of safe and delicious preserved foods.

4. Reducing Food Waste
   By preventing spoilage and extending the shelf life of food products, Debaryomyces hansenii helps reduce food waste. This microbe's presence in food processing and preservation can lead to significant reductions in the amount of food discarded, promoting sustainability and efficient resource utilization.

5. Eco-Friendly Food Preservation
   Debaryomyces hansenii offers an environmentally friendly alternative to chemical preservatives. Its natural ability to inhibit spoilage organisms eliminates the need for synthetic additives, reducing the environmental impact of food preservation practices.

6. Traditional Fermentation
   Debaryomyces hansenii has been utilized in traditional fermentation processes for centuries. It contributes to the production of various fermented foods and beverages, including sourdough bread, sauerkraut, and kefir. These time-honored practices not only preserve food but also enhance flavors and nutritional value.

7. Join the Sustainability Movement
   Let's celebrate Debaryomyces hansenii and its vital role in food preservation and waste reduction. Together, we can embrace the power of this microbial ally and work towards a more sustainable and efficient food system.

Azolla spp: The Green Revolution in Sustainable Agriculture

The Green Tiny Water Fern with Big Environmental Benefits

1. Introduction
   Azolla spp., the remarkable water fern, is driving a green revolution in sustainable agriculture. Discover the immense potential of this tiny plant and its significant contributions to environmental conservation and food security.

2. Nitrogen-Fixing Powerhouse
   Azolla spp. is a nitrogen-fixing plant, meaning it has the ability to convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form usable by plants. This unique trait enables Azolla to enrich soils with nitrogen, promoting healthy plant growth and reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers.

3. Carbon Sequestration Champion
   Azolla spp. has a high capacity for carbon sequestration. As it grows, it captures and stores atmospheric carbon dioxide, helping to mitigate climate change. By cultivating Azolla, we can contribute to carbon dioxide removal from the atmosphere, creating a positive impact on global warming.

4. Natural Biofertilizer
   Azolla spp. is a valuable source of organic biofertilizer. When incorporated into agricultural systems, it enriches soil fertility, enhances nutrient availability, and promotes sustainable crop production. By utilizing Azolla as a natural biofertilizer, farmers can reduce their reliance on chemical inputs and foster eco-friendly farming practices.

5. Water Purification Agent
   Azolla spp. also acts as a natural water purifier. It has the ability to absorb and remove excess nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, from water bodies. This helps in preventing harmful algal blooms and maintaining the ecological balance of aquatic ecosystems.

6. Livestock Feed and Animal Husbandry
   Azolla spp. serves as a nutritious feed supplement for livestock. It is rich in protein, essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals, making it an ideal dietary addition for animals. Incorporating Azolla into animal husbandry practices improves feed efficiency, reduces dependence on conventional feeds, and promotes sustainable livestock production.

7. Food Security and Economic Empowerment
   Azolla spp. offers an alternative food source for human consumption. Rich in essential nutrients, it can be used as a nutritious ingredient in various food products. The cultivation of Azolla also provides economic opportunities for small-scale farmers, contributing to food security and poverty alleviation.

8. Join the Green Revolution
   Let's celebrate Azolla spp. and its incredible contributions to sustainable agriculture and environmental conservation. Together, we can harness the power of this tiny water fern and pave the way for a more resilient and sustainable future.

Glomus intraradices: The Soil Superhero Enhancing Plant Health and Ecosystem Resilience

The Green Microbe that Revolutionizes Nutrient Uptake and Soil Sustainability

1. Introduction
   Glomus intraradices, the soil superhero, plays a crucial role in promoting plant health and enhancing ecosystem resilience. Discover the extraordinary abilities of this microbe and its impact on soil sustainability.

2. Symbiotic Plant Partnership
   Glomus intraradices forms symbiotic relationships with plants, particularly in the roots. It establishes mutualistic associations known as mycorrhizae, where the microbe colonizes plant roots, enhancing nutrient uptake and providing various benefits to both the microbe and the plant.

3. Enhanced Nutrient Uptake
   Glomus intraradices extends the reach of plant roots through its extensive hyphal network, significantly increasing the surface area available for nutrient absorption. This microbe aids in the uptake of essential nutrients, such as phosphorus and nitrogen, promoting plant growth and optimizing resource utilization.

4. Drought and Stress Resilience
   By partnering with Glomus intraradices, plants become more resilient to environmental stressors like drought and nutrient deficiencies. The microbe improves water and nutrient availability, allowing plants to withstand challenging conditions and thrive even in adverse environments.

5. Soil Structure Improvement
   Glomus intraradices plays a vital role in improving soil structure. Its extensive hyphal network enhances soil aggregation, creating pathways for water and air movement. This improves soil fertility, water infiltration, and nutrient cycling, leading to healthier and more productive soils.

6. Sustainable Agriculture Practices
   By incorporating Glomus intraradices into agricultural practices, we can reduce the need for chemical fertilizers and improve soil health. This microbe promotes sustainable agriculture by optimizing nutrient availability, reducing nutrient runoff, and minimizing environmental impacts.

7. Ecosystem Resilience
   Glomus intraradices contributes to the overall resilience of ecosystems. By enhancing plant health and nutrient cycling, it supports biodiversity and ecosystem functioning. The microbe's presence can positively impact soil microbial communities, benefiting the entire ecosystem.

Methylobacterium extorquens: The Microbe Driving Sustainable Biotechnology

The Green Microbe that Converts Waste into Valuable Resources

1. Introduction
   Methylobacterium extorquens, the powerhouse of sustainable biotechnology, holds immense potential for transforming waste materials into valuable resources. Discover the remarkable capabilities of this microbe and its role in driving a greener and more efficient future.

2. Waste-to-Resource Conversion
   Methylobacterium extorquens specializes in the conversion of waste materials into valuable products. It can efficiently metabolize a variety of compounds, including methane, methanol, and organic pollutants. By harnessing the power of this microbe, we can unlock the potential of waste as a sustainable resource.

3. Carbon Capture and Utilization
   Methylobacterium extorquens plays a critical role in carbon capture and utilization. It has the ability to convert greenhouse gases, such as methane, into useful products like biodegradable plastics and biofuels. By utilizing this microbe, we can mitigate climate change while creating sustainable alternatives to traditional fossil fuel-based industries.

4. Bioremediation and Environmental Cleanup
   Methylobacterium extorquens exhibits a remarkable talent for bioremediation. It can effectively degrade pollutants, including toxic organic compounds and heavy metals, thereby helping to clean up contaminated environments. By leveraging this microbe's abilities, we can restore ecosystems and protect the health of our planet.

5. Sustainable Chemical Production
   Methylobacterium extorquens is a valuable asset in sustainable chemical production. It can synthesize various bioactive compounds, enzymes, and specialty chemicals that have applications in pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and industrial processes. By harnessing this microbe, we can reduce our reliance on fossil fuel-based chemicals and promote a greener and more sustainable chemical industry.

6. Future Applications and Innovations
   Researchers continue to explore the potential of Methylobacterium extorquens in various fields, including biotechnology, bioengineering, and bioenergy. Ongoing research aims to unlock more of its secrets and develop innovative applications that further drive sustainability and advance technological advancements.

7. Join the Sustainable Biotech Revolution: Let's celebrate Methylobacterium extorquens and its contributions to sustainable biotechnology. Together, we can harness the power of this remarkable microbe and pave the way for a more environmentally friendly and resource-efficient future.

Agaricus bisporus: The Mushroom Marvel Enriching Nutrition and Sustainability

The Green Fungus Powering Healthy Diets and Eco-Friendly Practices

1. Introduction
   Agaricus bisporus, the versatile mushroom champion, is a nutritional powerhouse and a symbol of sustainable agriculture. Discover the remarkable qualities of this fungi and its impact on both human health and the environment.

2. Nutrient-Rich Superfood
   Agaricus bisporus is a nutritional superstar, packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fibers. It provides a low-calorie source of protein and is rich in antioxidants. Incorporating this mushroom into our diets can promote overall well-being and support healthy lifestyles.

3. Culinary Delight
   Agaricus bisporus is a culinary favorite worldwide. Its mild flavor and versatile texture make it suitable for various dishes, from stir-fries to soups and salads. By incorporating this mushroom into our meals, we can embrace sustainable and plant-based culinary choices.

4. Sustainable Farming Practices
   Agaricus bisporus cultivation follows sustainable farming practices. It can be grown in controlled environments, utilizing organic waste and agricultural by-products as compost. This reduces waste and promotes circular economy principles, contributing to a more sustainable food system.

5. Waste Reduction Champion
   Agaricus bisporus is an excellent ally in reducing food waste. It can efficiently break down organic matter, including agricultural residues and compostable waste, through the process of mycoremediation. By harnessing this mushroom's ability, we can minimize landfill waste and promote environmental stewardship.

6. Carbon Footprint Mitigation
   Agaricus bisporus cultivation contributes to carbon footprint mitigation. The mushroom's growth process involves the capture and utilization of carbon dioxide, reducing its release into the atmosphere. By supporting the cultivation of Agaricus bisporus, we contribute to climate change mitigation efforts.

7. Join the Mushroom Movement
   Let's celebrate Agaricus bisporus and its invaluable contributions to nutrition and sustainability. By embracing this versatile fungus, we can nourish our bodies, reduce waste, and support eco-friendly practices in agriculture and culinary arts.