It’s been a tough year, and we’re only five months in. Rather than reflecting on the horrifying events that have characterized the last month, we’ve gathered good news for our planet (and therefore, for everyone!)
1. 200 Celebrities Signed a Letter Calling for an Eco-friendlier World Post-Pandemic
You may have heard the phrase “the new normal” during the pandemic. A group of 200 international celebrities (such as Cate Blanchett and Robert De Niro) have written an open letter to the world stating that we can’t return to our old normal. These influential personalities are advocating for “the new normal” to be less consumer-driven and more thoughtful towards the Earth. The wakeup call directed to world leaders aims to change systemic problems by leaving unsustainable logic and obsession with productivity. In part, letter reads: "Pollution, climate change, and the destruction of our remaining natural zones have brought the world to a breaking point."
Learn more: thebeet.com
2. India Saw a Drop in CO2 for the First Time in 37 Years
As more individuals turn to renewable energy, entire countries are seeing a dramatic drop in fossil fuels. Last month, India’s carbon emissions fell as much as 30 per cent in part due to the COVID-19 crisis. The biggest impact has been the lessening of coal-fired power. Oil consumption has also been declining in India for over a year while the supply and demand for clean energy has been rising. Wind and solar are gaining popularity all over the world!
Learn more: econews.com.au
3. The World’s Cheapest and Largest Solar Plant is Being Built in the UAE
This month, we heard about a huge win for clean power! The Abu Dhabi Power Corporation (ADPower) announced their decision to build the cheapest and largest solar plant in the world. French company EDF and Chinese manufacturer Jinko Solar will help create the new plant at a record low cost. Upon expected completion in mid-2022, this will reduce the United Arab Emirate’s CO2 emissions to the equivalent of removing over 700,000 cards from the roads. Households will be powered with clean, affordable energy. Abu Dhabi aims to have 50 per cent of energy needs served by clean sources by 2030. Soak up that sun!
Learn more: earther.gizmodo.com