Harnessing hope: Positive strides in the climate change battle
In a world often bombarded by alarming headlines about climate change and environmental impacts, it sometimes helps to seek out the positive stories that can inspire hope and action. Despite the difficult challenges we face, many initiatives and actions signal positive steps towards mitigating climate change. In this article, we recognize some of the most promising developments and the individuals, communities, and organizations working to create a sustainable and greener future.
Renewable Energy Revolution:
One of the most significant positive shifts in recent years is the global transition towards renewable energy sources. Countries around the world are embracing solar, wind, nuclear and hydroelectric power as viable alternatives to fossil fuels. In 2021, the International Energy Agency (IEA) reported that global renewable electricity capacity is set to expand by 50% over the next five years, outpacing the growth in fossil fuel capacity.
China, the world’s largest emitter of greenhouse gases, has committed to becoming carbon neutral by 2060. It has invested heavily in renewable energy, leading the world in both solar and wind power installations. Similarly, India is making remarkable strides in solar energy, aiming to achieve 40% of its total energy capacity from renewables by 2030.
Reforestation and Afforestation
The importance of forests in sequestering carbon dioxide and maintaining biodiversity needs recognition. Many countries have numerous initiatives worldwide focusing on reforestation and afforestation. In 2020, the Trillion Tree Campaign, a global effort to plant one trillion trees by 2030, gained momentum. Governments, NGOs, and individuals are actively participating in this campaign, recognizing the positive impact trees can have on mitigating climate change.
Ethiopia set a world record by planting 350 million trees in a single day in 2019 as part of their Green Legacy initiative. The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) has also launched the Decade on Ecosystem Restoration (2021-2030), aiming to prevent, halt, and reverse the degradation of ecosystems globally.
Circular Economy Initiatives
The traditional linear economy model of “take, make, dispose” is being challenged by the concept of a circular economy, which aims to eliminate waste and make the most of resources. Innovative solutions are emerging, from recycling and upcycling to designing products with a focus on longevity and reusability.
The European Union is at the forefront of promoting the circular economy, with its Circular Economy Action Plan outlining strategies for sustainable product design, waste reduction, and recycling. Businesses are increasingly adopting circular practices, recognizing not only the environmental benefits but also the economic advantages of reducing waste and promoting resource efficiency.
Sustainable Agriculture Practices
Agriculture is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, but positive changes are happening within the sector. Sustainable farming practices, such as agroforestry, organic farming, and regenerative agriculture, are gaining traction globally.
Regenerative agriculture, in particular, focuses on improving soil health, increasing biodiversity, and sequestering carbon. Farmers implementing these practices report improved yields, reduced reliance on synthetic inputs, and enhanced resilience to climate extremes. Organizations like the Rodale Institute are actively promoting regenerative agriculture as a solution to both food security and climate change.
In addition, more awareness is being brought to bear on the unsustainable animal agriculture industry, recognizing that globally it uses 80% of arable land for food for livestock or grazing animals, yet only produces 20% of food needed worldwide.
Sustainable Earth Eating/Climate Diet was launched with a sole focus on creating greater awareness of the impact of diets on climate and the number of plant-based eaters continues to grow, especially among younger people.
Technological Innovations and Climate Solutions
Advancements in technology are playing a crucial role in addressing climate change. From innovative carbon capture technologies to smart grid systems that enhance energy efficiency, scientists and engineers are developing solutions to reduce our carbon footprint.
Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular, with major automakers committing to transitioning their cars to electric models. The development of more efficient batteries, coupled with the expansion of charging infrastructure, is paving the way for a cleaner transportation sector. Global Collaboration and Agreements:/US Limits LNG
The fight against climate change requires collective effort and international cooperation. The Paris Agreement, adopted in 2015, brought countries together to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius. While challenges persist, the commitment to a greener future is evident through various international agreements and collaborations. On January 26, the White House temporarily halted the approval of all new licenses for LNG export terminals. In announcing the decision, President Biden called the climate crisis “the existential threat of our time.”
The Global Climate Action Summit, held annually, provides a platform for governments, businesses, and organizations to showcase their climate action efforts. The Summit encourages the sharing of best practices and the scaling up of initiatives that have proven successful in mitigating climate change.
Reducing Meat Consumption Paves the Way to Deforestation:
Amid the harsh realities of climate change, these positive strides offer hope. The transition to renewable energy, reforestation efforts, circular economy initiatives, sustainable agriculture practices, meat-reduced diets, technological innovations, and global collaboration are all contributing to a more sustainable and resilient future.
As individuals, non-profits, communities, and nations come together to address the challenges posed by climate change, it is helpful to celebrate and amplify these positive stories. By highlighting successful initiatives and the people driving them, we can inspire further action and contribute to the collective effort to safeguard our planet for generations to come.
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Article by Jane DeMarines, Executive Director, Climate Diet
