Global Climate News

The Nordea Economic Outlook report discusses the impact of the green and digital transition on inflation, noting that it may lead to higher inflation due to new taxes and increased demand for certain minerals. The report also mentions the potential for AI to boost productivity in the long term, but highlights challenges like retraining the workforce. The report analyzes the resilience of Nordic economies to monetary tightening and the global economic downturn.

The EU's greenhouse gas emissions decreased by 7% in 2023 compared to 2022 and by 18% compared to 2013, totaling 3.4 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalents. Electricity, gas, steam, and air conditioning supply saw the most significant reduction (43%). Transportation and storage was the only sector with increased emissions (14%). Household emissions also decreased by 14%. The greenhouse gas emissions intensity decreased by 32% from 2013 to 2023.

UK-based Cellcycle, part of The SER Group, developed a new direct recycling process for lithium-ion batteries using green solvents. This process recovers over 95% of cathode active material at temperatures below 80 degrees, reducing carbon emissions and eliminating the need for hydrometallurgy and pyrometallurgy. Cellcycle also partnered with CL Refurbishments Ltd for a recycling solution for lithium thionyl chloride batteries.

Paptic, a company focused on sustainable packaging, has developed a recyclable and reusable material made from renewable wood fibers as an alternative to plastic packaging for hygiene products. This addresses the growing demand for eco-friendly solutions in the hygiene sector and aligns with the European Union’s circular economy goals. The material combines the benefits of paper, plastic, and textiles.

The EU's greenhouse gas emissions decreased by 7% in 2023 compared to 2022 and by 18% compared to 2013. Electricity, gas, steam, and air conditioning supply saw the most significant reduction (43%). Transportation and storage were the only sectors with increased emissions (14%). Household emissions also decreased by 14%. The greenhouse gas emissions intensity decreased by 32% from 2013 to 2023.

Global bio-based polymer capacity is projected to grow 13% CAGR (2024-2029), driven by investments in China, Europe, the Middle East, and the US. The EU's Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) is creating demand for industrial compostable plastics. Companies like NatureWorks, Futerro, and Emirates Biotech are expanding PLA production capacities. The European Union’s Fertilising Products Regulation (FPR) is creating demand for soil-biodegradable products.

US-based Emvolon, an MIT spinout, has developed a technology that repurposes automotive engines into modular chemical plants to produce green fuels like methanol and ammonia from methane emissions. The company has partnered with Montauk Renewables to build a commercial-scale demonstration unit in Texas, initially producing up to 15,000 gallons of green methanol per year, scalable to 2.5 million gallons. Emvolon also received a Department of Energy grant to adapt its process for solar and wind power sources.

German researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute for Process Engineering and Packaging IVV have developed sustainable packaging from peatland plants. The project, supported by multiple German ministries, uses paludicultures (cultivated peatland plants) with low lignin content, reducing the need for chemicals in paper production. Processes achieved temperatures below 100°C, up to 45 percent lower than conventional methods. The resulting packaging is suitable for the non-food sector.

India’s Department of Biotechnology (DBT) held a webinar on "Biomanufacturing for Climate Resilient Agriculture," focusing on sustainable biomanufacturing solutions for agriculture under the BioE3 Policy. The webinar included discussions on leveraging bioresources, sustainable practices, and technologies like synthetic biology and AI/ML to improve plant productivity and create bio-based solutions for climate-resilient agriculture.

The article discusses various types of inverter batteries and factors affecting their price in Nigeria, focusing on their role in providing backup power during outages. It highlights the importance of considering battery capacity, type, brand, warranty, and compatibility with inverters when making a purchase. The article also emphasizes the benefits of inverter batteries, including uninterrupted power supply, energy efficiency, and environmental friendliness.

French McPhy Energy revised its 2024 revenue guidance to approximately 11 million euros, instead of a range between 18 and 22 million euros. This downward revision is mainly due to the Djewels project not being taken into account for 2024 and the partial termination of a legacy mobility contract.

Italy-based Medcenter Container Terminal (MCT) has ordered 20 Kalmar hybrid straddle carriers to reduce local emissions, fuel costs and noise levels. Delivery is expected in Q1 2026.

China-based Hanyesteel, a steel plate factory, has implemented eco-friendly practices in its steel production to minimize its carbon footprint and reduce waste generation. The company invests heavily in developing innovative steel-making technologies.

China-based Hanyesteel, a steel plate factory, produces specialized steel alloys with unmatched strength, toughness, and corrosion resistance. The company adheres to strict environmental standards in its manufacturing processes, prioritizing sustainability and social responsibility.

Taiwan's Bureau of Standards, Metrology, and Inspection (BSMI) implemented mandatory inspections for residential lithium battery energy storage appliances and power conversion systems (up to 20 kWh and 20 kW, respectively) starting July 1, 2026, to ensure safety and reliability in line with the country's renewable energy goals. The regulations address thermal runaway risks and require compliance with standards for electrical safety, electromagnetic compatibility, and grid connection safety.

Taiwan's Ministry of Environment (MOENV) unveiled an expanded carbon reduction reporting plan that includes various sectors consuming high levels of energy. Businesses emitting over 10,000 metric tons of CO2e annually or with single branches emitting over 5,000 MtCO2e must report greenhouse gas emissions starting in 2026. Carbon fees will be levied in 2026 on entities emitting more than 25,000 MtCO2e a year, affecting 281 enterprises.

Paptic, a company developing sustainable packaging solutions, highlights the use of recyclable wood-fibre based materials in feminine hygiene products. The Confederation of European Paper Industries (CEPI) emphasizes the importance of designing recyclable packaging and aims to increase recycling rates of fibre-based packaging to 90% by 2030 through the 4evergreen alliance. Paptic's material combines paper, plastic, and textile benefits, reducing plastic waste and supporting a circular economy.

Taiwan has unveiled an expanded carbon reduction reporting plan.

US-based MIT chemical engineer Zachary Smith is developing highly efficient filters to replace energy-intensive gas, liquid, and ion separation processes. His company, Osmoses, aims to reduce energy consumption by up to 90 percent in industrial processes by using room temperature membranes.

China-based Hanyesteel, a steel plate factory, produces special alloy steel plates known for their sustainability as they can be recycled and reused with minimal quality loss, contributing to a more sustainable future.