The positive climate stories that you need to hear
It’s important to point out the positives when it comes to fighting climate change. After all, we don’t want to think we are doing all this hard work, spreading the word, and crafting innovative ways to help fight global warming for nothing. That kind of attitude can easily deter us from trying to make any changes, especially if it seems futile. Pessimism isn’t helpful regarding climate justice.
Here are recent positive climate stories which show just how much all of your efforts can make a difference.
Renewables
Ember, a London-based think tank released data which shows that renewables saved 230 million tonnes of CO2 emissions around the world. The data was taken from 75 countries that make up 90% of the world’s electricity demand. It just shows that all our efforts to switch to renewables do make a difference, and our fight for these renewables shouldn’t end.
New regulations
Around the globe, there have been various new regulations which are all taking steps to fight climate change. For example, France banned short-haul domestic flights which means people cannot take useless flights for short journeys across their country. France also banned adverts for fossil fuels.
Likewise, Denmark has begun paying for “loss and damage” from climate change. Essentially, they have begun paying compensation to those most vulnerable in the world. If every wealthier country did this, there would be more incentive to stop climate change as well as make the lives better for those who need it.
Canada also has imposed a “luxury tax” which ensures that those who are importing private jets, yachts, and high-value cars to the country are being paid to pay more.
Earth Day
On the 22nd of April, more than a billion people celebrated Earth Day. There were parades, floats, and cleanups which just showed how dedicated so many people are to improving the planet. 190 countries sent a message to their leaders about what they want for the future.
Wind and Solar break records
It is becoming increasingly clear that we are less dependent on fossil fuels. A future where we don’t need them is looking incredibly likely. A report recently found that wind and solar power broke energy records last year producing 12% of global electricity. Analysts have suspected that we are past the peak of pollution from coal burning.
The EU has also recently agreed to push for a worldwide phaseout of fossil fuels as COP28. While it’s wise to be sceptical of these promises, it does seem promising that these discussions are taking the forefront of the conversation.
Car-free
There seems to be a car-free movement that is becoming increasingly popular. Bergen, a city in Norway, is ready to open Europe’s longest cycle tunnel, which aims to cut traffic, keep cyclists and pedestrians safe, and encourage a car-free city.
These tunnels should begin to exist elsewhere.
Together For Climate
We have to include ourselves in the positive stories. We are constantly searching for the most promising and reliable carbon removal technologies and come across some of the most amazing solutions. These give us hope. Find them here.
Do you know any other positive climate change stories? We would love to hear them.