Global Climate News

The European Commission has released a study showing that the trans-European transport network (TEN-T) requires significant climate adaptation investments. The study warns of 30-fold increase in heatwaves and more frequent extreme weather events by century's end, recommending implementation of climate risk assessments and a tracking system to monitor cross-border projects' progress and climate-related challenges.

New Zealand has reopened State Highway 1 through the Mangamuka Gorge after extensive repairs following severe weather-related damage that closed the route in August 2022. The 13-kilometer highway between Mangamuka and Kaitaia has been reinforced to improve resilience against future weather events, benefiting approximately 1,300 vehicles per day.

New Zealand's Transport Agency (NZTA) and Ashburton District Council have confirmed funding for a second Ashburton Bridge, with construction expected to begin in 2026. The project aims to improve infrastructure resilience against flooding events and enhance supply chain connectivity in Canterbury region. The bridge, which will serve 24,000 vehicles daily, has been included in the Fast Track Approvals Bill to expedite its development.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has granted California waivers to implement its Advanced Clean Cars II and Low NOx rules for trucks vehicle emissions standards. These standards will help California and other adopting states address air pollution and climate challenges by reducing tailpipe emissions and transitioning to cleaner vehicles. This builds on California's 57-year history of receiving EPA waivers for vehicle emission standards.

Germany's Hamburger Hafen und Logistik AG (HHLA) has introduced three new remote-controlled container gantry cranes at its Container Terminal Altenwerder (CTA) in Hamburg. These cranes, delivered by Ireland's Liebherr, are part of HHLA's €1 billion investment in port logistics modernization, with 40% allocated to upgrading Hamburg's container terminals. The cranes, capable of handling ships up to 16,000 TEU, will enhance efficiency and sustainability in terminal operations.

The European Commission has welcomed the updated European Air Traffic Management (ATM) Master Plan, adopted by the SESAR 3 Joint Undertaking. The plan aims to transform European airspace into the world's most efficient and environmentally friendly skies by 2045, focusing on digitalisation and modernisation of air traffic management systems to reduce emissions and improve efficiency.

The European Union's DG CLIMA and Joint Research Centre (JRC) have launched a survey on zero-emission heavy-duty vehicles (ZE-HDVs) to gather input on technology readiness, enabling conditions, and research priorities. The survey results will inform future EU research funding programs and support CO₂ emission reduction targets under Regulation (EU) 2024/1610.

Germany's Siemens Mobility has announced the authorization of its Mireo Plus H hydrogen trains for passenger service in Bavaria and Berlin-Brandenburg, marking a significant step towards emission-free mobility. The trains will replace diesel trains, saving 1.1 million liters of diesel annually and reducing CO2 emissions by 3,000 tons. Additionally, 31 Mireo Plus B battery trains will enter service in East Brandenburg, reducing diesel consumption by 4.4 million liters annually and CO2 emissions by 11,500 tons.

In Rwanda, GIZ has launched a project supporting the training of female motorcycle taxi drivers using electric motorcycles in Kigali. The project, co-financed by the European Union, provides professional driving training and discounted electric motorcycles through a local provider. 46 women have formed Ndabaga company, pioneering the Kigali Women-led e-Moto Tour initiative in the tourism sector.