Global Climate News

US-based Idaho National Laboratory has developed the Sample Preparation Laboratory (SPL), the first new hot cells built in 50 years, to test structural materials for advanced nuclear reactors. SPL aims to cut down irradiated material samples for research and testing in various extreme conditions. The facility is scheduled to go 'hot' in January 2026, with installations and tests of scientific equipment occurring through 2025. This initiative is expected to play a critical role in exploring material properties for sustainable nuclear energy solutions.

Canada's Department of Finance has released draft legislative proposals for public comment regarding the Electric Vehicle (EV) Supply Chain investment tax credit. This credit is proposed to be equal to 10 percent of the capital cost of eligible building property that is utilized in qualifying electric vehicle supply chain segments. Officials invite Canadians and stakeholders to provide feedback on these proposals until March 14, 2025.

Abu Dhabi's Integrated Transport Centre has partnered with GIGATONS to advance net-zero e-mobility solutions in the emirate. This collaboration focuses on developing sustainable, smart, zero-emission electronic mobility systems. The partnership will utilize the latest technologies in electric vehicles and ensure the implementation of efficient charging infrastructure. Initial projects will include multi-modal charging stations for electric cars and taxis, with a focus on reducing carbon emissions and promoting clean energy in transport.

US-based Hyzon Motors Inc. has announced its intent to delist from the Nasdaq Stock Market due to a decision by its Board of Directors. The delisting is expected to be followed by a deregistration with the SEC. The company aims to reduce significant costs associated with reporting obligations and regulatory compliance. Additionally, Hyzon has focused on developing hydrogen fuel cell technology to provide zero-emission power for heavy-duty commercial vehicles, including Class 8 trucks.

Canada’s Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, along with PEI’s Minister of Environment, Energy and Climate Action, announced the Prince Edward Island Regional Energy and Resource Table Framework for Collaboration on the Path to Net Zero. This collaboration aims for PEI to become Canada’s first net-zero province, with initiatives focusing on clean electricity, clean fuels, and clean technology innovation. Additionally, $2.7 million in federal investments were announced for multiple clean energy projects across the province.

India has made significant strides in power accessibility over the last decade, with the average electricity supply in rural areas increasing from 12.5 hours in 2014 to 22.6 hours in 2025. In urban areas, the supply has reached 23.4 hours. The country has also achieved a remarkable 180% increase in non-fossil power capacity, growing from around 80 GW in 2014 to approximately 220 GW in 2025. Additionally, the government aims to install 1 lakh EV charging stations by 2030 to support electric mobility.

Taiwan-based 瑞儀光電 has invested over 13.3 billion in building R&D centers and cleanroom facilities to develop wafer-level optical components, incorporating AI smart manufacturing to enhance production efficiency. The company is also implementing energy-saving and carbon-reduction measures using green construction materials. This investment, expected to create around 480 jobs, aims to position 瑞儀光電 as a leader in optics solutions for displays, wearables, automotive, robotics, and biomedical applications.

China has announced a new standard for second-life power batteries to regulate certification and reuse of electric vehicle batteries in other applications. This certification will allow companies repurposing second-life batteries to apply officially, which aims to optimize the use of old batteries that still retain significant capacity. Additionally, it addresses the growing need for affordable raw materials in battery production, offering a pathway to improve the electric vehicle market's sustainability.

Japan's Minister of Economy, Muto, held a meeting with Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister, Pichet, on February 20, 2025, where they exchanged opinions on bilateral cooperation in the automotive industry. They addressed the importance of achieving decarbonization in the automotive sector and strengthening international competitiveness. Both ministers agreed to closely cooperate to facilitate an early holding of the "Energy-Industry Dialogue."

Norwegian SINTEF has been developing advanced models since the 1980s to simulate cable properties in complex marine environments. These dynamic underwater cables are crucial for transporting energy from floating installations like offshore wind turbines to static seabed cables, essential for Europe’s planned 6,000 km of underwater power cables annually. This transition to renewable energy marks a significant shift from previous oil and gas industry investments, optimizing design and manufacturing processes to reduce costs.

UK-based E.ON has been leading the initiative to develop green skills and prepare the workforce for the clean energy sector. Through significant government investment, thousands of training opportunities have been created, emphasizing the importance of sustainability. E.ON opened the Net Zero Training Academy in 2023, aiming to equip a new generation of workers with skills in solar panel installation, electric vehicle charging, and heat pump management. This initiative supports the goal of generating two million green jobs by 2030, reflecting a robust commitment to a sustainable energy future.

Belgium-based Prof. Dr. Joeri Van Mierlo has aimed to provide a platform for academic researchers and industry professionals to share advancements in electric vehicle technologies through the World Electric Vehicle Journal (WEVJ). Launched in 2007, this journal has filled a crucial gap in scientific communication and promotes research in battery, hybrid, and fuel cell electric vehicles. WEVJ has achieved notable growth with an impact factor of 2.6 and CiteScore of 4.5, reflecting its increasing influence in the field of e-mobility.

ASEAN's Secretary-General Dr. Kao Kim Hourn attended the Japan-ASEAN Youth Summit 2025, emphasizing the crucial role of youth in tackling societal challenges, particularly in public health and environmental sustainability. He called for the nurturing of youth talent and innovation through initiatives that promote collaboration within the ASEAN community. This summit aimed at fostering closer ties among youth and encouraging them to lead sustainable change within their regions.

Germany-based Rock Tech Lithium Inc. and Switzerland-based Arcore AG have announced a merger of their subsidiaries to create a fully integrated European Lithium company. The joint venture will control Rock Tech's Guben Converter in Germany and Arcore's Lopare project in Bosnia-Herzegovina, covering the entire value chain from mine to battery-grade Lithium products. This merger aims to ensure a reliable battery materials supply for Europe, enhance operational synergies, and reduce costs. The binding Business Combination Agreement was signed on February 19, 2025, with Rock Tech holding 75% control of the new company, and closing is targeted for Q2/2025.

Global electric vehicle (EV) sales are anticipated to grow at a mid-teens percentage rate in 2025, with China leading as the largest EV market. Technological advancements in battery and charging infrastructure have spurred unprecedented EV adoption among consumers and governments. In addition, regulatory measures such as the European Green Deal are pushing for cleaner transportation options, including a commitment to ban new internal combustion engine vehicles by 2035.

US-based MIT has seen eight of its researchers elected to the National Academy of Engineering for 2025, recognizing their outstanding contributions to engineering fields, including clean energy. This distinguished membership reflects both individual achievements in areas such as energy storage and clean energy technologies. Evelyn N. Wang, vice president for climate and Ford Professor of Engineering, was specifically honored for her work in clean energy and water technology.

US-based Schneider Electric has highlighted the importance of upgrading electrical panels in homes to accommodate increasing energy demands from devices like electric vehicles and heat pumps. With millions of homes having outdated 100A electrical panels, the need for upgrades to 200A panels is becoming inevitable. These upgrades allow homeowners to utilize modern technologies and improve overall energy efficiency, contributing to sustainability. Additionally, financial incentives are available to help offset the costs of these upgrades, making it easier for homeowners to invest in necessary infrastructure.

Taiwan's Vice Premier Cheng Li-chiun hosted the 15th meeting of the National Land Security Policy Council on February 19, 2025, which reviewed key infrastructure (CI) assessments and the results of protective drills. The meeting emphasized the importance of CI in maintaining national and social stability and revealed plans for 2025 Town Resilience Drills, integrating community defense strategies. Cheng reiterated the emphasis on improving infrastructure resilience, particularly in food, energy, water resources, and healthcare sectors, building on the findings of the 113 year CI review that expanded assessments from eight to nine key areas.

UK-based researchers from the University of Birmingham, London School of Economics, and University of California conducted a study analyzing 264 million annual roadworthy tests. They found that modern electric vehicles (EVs) have closed the longevity gap with internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, achieving comparable lifespans even under intense usage. The research indicates EVs retain significant battery capacity even after substantial mileage, reinforcing the case for transitioning from gasoline to electric transport despite the carbon-intensive manufacturing of EVs.

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) published a report titled 'Building Resilience in Education Systems' in February 2025 to address the impact of disasters, pandemics, and conflicts on education in Asia and the Pacific. This publication consists of 13 chapters focused on strengthening education system resilience, providing key insights and experiences from diverse contexts across Asia, Africa, and Latin America. One critical chapter addresses how to transform education systems for a climate-resilient and sustainable future, emphasizing that while solutions will vary by country, leveraging resources is essential for building a more resilient education system.