Green Top 10 – October 2024

1- Investors Ramp Up Climate Advocacy Ahead of COP29

Investors are increasingly pressuring governments to take stronger climate action ahead of COP29, emphasizing the need for policies that support clean energy transitions. Despite private sector leadership, progress remains insufficient, with global emissions still on track to exceed the 1.5°C target set by the Paris Agreement. Investors, managing over $29 trillion in assets, are advocating for government action, including fiscal incentives and regulatory frameworks, to ensure long-term returns and scalable climate solutions. The 2024 Global Investor Statement to Governments on the Climate Crisis is the most comprehensive yet, urging ambitious climate policies. A key focus is policy certainty and the need for standardized climate risk data to inform investment decisions.

Source: Reuters

2- CRE and ESG: Essential Shift or Passing Trend?

As ESG reporting becomes mandatory, the commercial real estate (CRE) sector is pivoting toward sustainability, driven by both regulatory and financial pressures. With buildings responsible for 37% of global emissions, retrofitting existing structures and adopting energy-efficient technologies are critical to reducing emissions. Regulations like New York’s Local Law 97 and the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive are accelerating this transition, while green certifications like LEED and BREEAM are becoming valuable assets. Financially, sustainable buildings benefit from higher sale prices, rental premiums, and reduced operational costs. Moreover, climate risks, such as rising insurance costs, are pushing building owners to prioritize ESG measures, ensuring long-term resilience and profitability in a rapidly evolving market.

Source: Forbes

3- Industrial Activities in the Arctic: Rapid Growth Threatens Ecosystems

A new study reveals that over 800,000 km² of the Arctic were impacted by human activity by 2013, primarily driven by industrial development rather than urban expansion. Researchers from the University of Zurich used satellite data to map artificial light at night, indicating that 85% of light pollution in the Arctic stems from industrial activities like oil, gas, and mining operations. The increase in human activity, especially in fragile permafrost and tundra ecosystems, is causing significant environmental disruptions, from impacting Arctic reindeer to accelerating invasive species spread. These findings highlight the urgent need for sustainable industrial development to protect the Arctic’s biodiversity. By 2050, up to 80% of the Arctic could face critical levels of human disturbance if industrial expansion continues at its current pace.

Source: ScienceDaily

4- Can Reality TV Make Sustainability A Reality?

Reality TV is evolving to incorporate climate solutions into its unscripted storytelling, making sustainability a more relatable and attainable goal for viewers. Shows like Love Is Blind have started featuring eco-conscious contestants, while home renovation programs such as Fixer Upper and Grand Designs highlight green building solutions like solar panels and energy-efficient technologies. Survival-based shows are also subtly addressing climate change by showcasing increasingly harsh environments, emphasizing the need for sustainable practices. Fashion and food competitions like Project Runway and Top Chef are now promoting eco-friendly designs and sourcing practices. This shift signals the potential of reality TV to make climate solutions more mainstream, influencing public perceptions and behaviors.

Source: Forbes

5- The Future of Climate Tech: Key Developments to Watch

The last few years have seen major strides in climate technology, and the momentum is only expected to grow. Batteries have dominated the climate tech landscape, with innovations in sodium-ion, iron-air, and solid-state batteries set to either succeed or fade in the coming years. Nuclear energy, another critical zero-emissions option, is experiencing renewed interest, with a focus on keeping existing reactors running and exploring advanced designs. Materials for climate tech, particularly recycling and sourcing of critical minerals, remain a key challenge as industries look for sustainable solutions. As we approach milestones like the 10th anniversary of the Paris Agreement, the race to meet climate goals intensifies, setting the stage for further innovation and adaptation.

Source: MIT Technology Review

6- U.S. Pushes AI to Boost Sustainable Semiconductor Manufacturing

The U.S. Department of Commerce is launching a competition under the CHIPS for America program, offering up to $100 million to develop AI-powered solutions for sustainable semiconductor manufacturing. This initiative aims to reverse the decline of the U.S. share in the global semiconductor market, which dropped from 37% in 1990 to 12% today, by fostering university-led collaborations. AI will be key to optimizing semiconductor materials, reducing water and energy consumption, and minimizing chemical waste, addressing the industry’s sustainability challenges. With the global semiconductor market projected to exceed $1 trillion by 2030, this program seeks to improve U.S. competitiveness and reduce reliance on Asian supply chains. The initiative will also help close the skills gap in advanced manufacturing and AI by supporting workforce development.

Source: Environmentenergyleader

7- Amazon Eliminates Plastic Air Pillows, Moves Toward Sustainable Packaging

Amazon has officially replaced plastic air pillows with paper-based padding in packages across its global network, responding to years of environmental advocacy. This move is part of Amazon’s broader efforts to reduce its plastic footprint, which had already seen significant changes in regions like Australia and Europe. However, the company continues to use large amounts of plastic in other forms, particularly thin films and padded mailers, which are harder to recycle. Environmental groups, such as Oceana, are pushing Amazon to strengthen its commitments by setting clearer timelines for eliminating all single-use plastics and scaling up reusable alternatives. While Amazon has made progress internationally, further efforts are needed in the U.S., where plastic use remains significant.

Source: Grist

8- Changing Consumer Perceptions on Who’s Responsible for Sustainability

New research by Savanta highlights a shift in consumer views, with a growing belief that brands (48%) and retailers (43%) hold primary responsibility for driving sustainability, rather than individuals. While many consumers claim sustainability influences their shopping choices, a notable “say-do” gap remains, as 30% struggle to identify whether products are sustainable. Awareness of certifications like Fairtrade has also declined, putting pressure on brands to offer clearer guidance. Younger generations, especially Gen Z and millennials, seek sustainability information online, while older consumers prefer messaging at the point of sale, suggesting brands must integrate sustainability across all touchpoints. Authenticity and clear communication are essential as expectations rise for brands to lead on sustainability.

Source: TheDrum

9- Aging Population in Japan Linked to Higher Household Food Waste

A new study from researchers in Japan has found that food waste in households increases significantly with the age of the household head, highlighting the aging population’s role in food waste and its associated greenhouse gas emissions. The study revealed that elderly households generate nearly twice as much food waste as those led by younger individuals, with vegetables being the most wasted food type. Ready meals, fish, and seafood were also significant contributors to food waste emissions. These findings will help shape strategies aimed at reducing food waste in aging societies like Japan, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions based on age-related dietary habits and preferences.

Source: ScienceDaily

10- High-End Fashion No More Durable Than Fast Fashion, Study Finds

A new study by Hubbub and the University of Leeds challenges the assumption that expensive fashion items are inherently more durable than cheaper alternatives. The research tested the durability of 65 garments, including t-shirts, jeans, and hoodies across various price ranges, finding no clear correlation between price and longevity. Despite luxury brands’ claims of sustainability, results showed that lower-priced items often performed as well or better than their more expensive counterparts. Primark, often criticized as a fast fashion brand, has implemented a new durability framework to extend garment lifespans and reduce environmental impact. The study highlights the need to shift consumer attitudes toward caring for all clothing, regardless of price.

Source: Forbes