Articles tagged with "greenhouse-gas-emissions"
Wastewater plants emit twice the greenhouse gases, US study finds
A recent Princeton-led study reveals that wastewater treatment plants in the U.S. emit significantly more greenhouse gases—methane and nitrous oxide—than previously estimated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The researchers found that these facilities produce 2.4 times more methane and 1.9 times more nitrous oxide than EPA calculations, accounting for approximately 2.5% of U.S. methane and 8.1% of nitrous oxide emissions. Given that these gases have contributed to about 22% of global warming since 1850, the study highlights wastewater plants as a more substantial source of climate pollution than recognized. The research team conducted extensive field measurements over 14 months using a mobile lab equipped with advanced sensors, visiting 96 plants that process about 9% of U.S. wastewater. Their findings showed emissions vary widely with environmental conditions such as temperature and rainfall, and that most emissions come from a relatively small number of plants. This suggests targeted interventions could effectively reduce emissions without
energygreenhouse-gas-emissionswastewater-treatmentmethanenitrous-oxideenvironmental-impactpollution-monitoringThe EPA Is Ending Greenhouse Gas Data Collection. Who Will Step Up to Fill the Gap?
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently announced it will cease requiring polluting companies to report their greenhouse gas emissions, effectively ending the Greenhouse Gas Reporting Program (GHGRP). This move, initiated under the Trump administration, removes a critical federal tool used to monitor emissions and inform climate policy. Experts, including former EPA official Joseph Goffman, warn that this decision severely hampers the government's ability to formulate effective climate strategies, as the GHGRP data is essential for understanding emission sources, tracking industry decarbonization, and assessing new emissions-reduction technologies. The program also supports international commitments under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change and aids state and local policymakers in setting and monitoring emissions targets. While nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) and technology advancements, such as AI-driven emissions tracking and satellite data, offer some potential to fill the data void, experts agree these efforts cannot fully replace the EPA’s comprehensive and authoritative data collection. Groups like Climate TRACE, a coalition using satellite imagery and
energygreenhouse-gas-emissionsclimate-policyenvironmental-monitoringdata-collectionemission-reduction-technologiesartificial-intelligenceKing Trump The Fool Railed At The UNiverse, While Clean Energy Stood Waiting In The Wings - CleanTechnica
The article from CleanTechnica critically examines former President Donald Trump’s address at the United Nations General Assembly on September 23, where he vehemently opposed the global green energy agenda. Trump extended his speech well beyond the allotted time, using the platform to attack renewable energy initiatives and climate science, labeling climate change concerns as falsehoods propagated by “stupid people.” His rhetoric was described as egotistical, regressive, and damaging, especially given the global consensus on the urgency of climate action. The article portrays Trump’s behavior as immature and counterproductive, highlighting how his stance isolates the U.S. from international climate collaboration and undermines progress on clean energy. In contrast, the article underscores the growing momentum of renewable energy worldwide, citing data from the International Energy Agency (IEA) and BloombergNEF that emphasize the economic and environmental benefits of wind and solar power. Despite Trump’s dismissive comments about large-scale renewable projects, the U.S. has seen significant growth in solar and wind
energyclean-energyrenewable-energyclimate-changeUN-climate-summitgreenhouse-gas-emissionsenergy-policyHow Al Gore used AI to track 660M polluters
Former Vice President Al Gore, through the nonprofit Climate Trace which he co-founded, has launched an AI-powered tool that tracks fine particulate matter (PM2.5) pollution from over 660 million sources globally. This initiative aims to provide precise, accessible data on pollution levels and sources, addressing a significant public health crisis linked to conventional air pollution. The project was inspired by Gore’s experience with communities in Memphis, Tennessee, affected by pollution from a nearby refinery and a crude oil pipeline, highlighting the need for transparent monitoring of pollutant plumes near populated areas. The tool, developed in partnership with Carnegie Mellon University, uses AI to manage and visualize vast amounts of pollution data, making it possible to track emissions worldwide—something previously unimaginable without advanced technology. Scientific research has increasingly revealed the extensive health risks of PM2.5 exposure beyond lung cancer and heart disease, including strokes and other serious conditions causing hundreds of thousands of deaths annually in the U.S. Gore hopes that raising awareness of these health impacts,
energyAIpollution-trackinggreenhouse-gas-emissionsclimate-changepublic-healthfossil-fuelsMust Climate Action Take Second Place To Fighting For Democracy? - CleanTechnica
The article from CleanTechnica discusses the tension between prioritizing climate action and defending democracy, particularly in the context of the Trump administration's authoritarian tendencies in the US. While some public figures, like former Labor Secretary Robert Reich, argue that democracy must be secured before effective climate action can occur, the article contends that fighting for climate justice is inherently a fight for democracy itself. It highlights how democratic institutions have been compromised by corporate interests, especially the fossil fuel industry, which undermines both environmental progress and democratic integrity. The Trump administration’s policies are criticized for exacerbating climate change, weakening environmental regulations, and alienating international allies committed to the Paris Agreement. The article emphasizes that despite the fragility of democratic structures, urgent and significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions are necessary to meet climate goals. It challenges the notion that climate action must wait for political shifts, advocating instead for immediate grassroots and social movement efforts to counteract misinformation and corporate influence. Democracy, when functioning properly, empowers citizens to collectively address climate
energyrenewable-energyclimate-actiongreenhouse-gas-emissionsfossil-fuelsParis-Agreementenvironmental-policyUS Pressuring Other Countries To Abandon Clean Energy And Climate Goals - CleanTechnica
The article from CleanTechnica highlights the U.S. government's current efforts to undermine global clean energy and climate initiatives in favor of expanding fossil fuel use. It criticizes the administration for prioritizing fossil fuel interests by promoting “energy dominance” and opposing international agreements aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions, particularly in sectors like shipping. The U.S. has reportedly threatened punitive measures such as tariffs and visa restrictions against countries supporting climate action, and has allied with oil-producing nations like Saudi Arabia to block production limits on fossil fuels. Key figures in the U.S. Energy Department have framed the choice as one between “freedom and sovereignty” through fossil fuels versus economic decline due to “climate alarmism.” European officials and climate experts express alarm over this U.S. pressure, especially given recent severe heat waves and the scientific consensus on the urgent need to transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources like wind, solar, and geothermal. The article underscores the tension between the U.S. administration’s fossil fuel agenda and
energyclean-energyfossil-fuelsclimate-goalsenergy-policyinternational-energygreenhouse-gas-emissionsOur Children's Trust Represents Young People In Wisconsin In Climate Suit - CleanTechnica
Our Children’s Trust, a public interest law firm known for representing young plaintiffs in climate-related legal cases, has partnered with Midwest Environmental Advocates to file a lawsuit on behalf of 15 young residents of Wisconsin. The suit challenges two state statutes that allegedly favor fossil fuel-powered thermal electricity generation and restrict the expansion of renewable energy within Wisconsin. The plaintiffs argue that these laws violate their constitutional rights by perpetuating greenhouse gas emissions, thereby contributing to climate change and threatening their health, safety, and future stability. The case was filed on August 22 against the Wisconsin Public Service Commission (PSC) and the state legislature. The contested laws prevent the PSC from considering the environmental and health impacts of air pollution when approving new fossil fuel power plants and prohibit the commission from mandating utilities to increase their use of carbon-free energy sources. This legal framework effectively supports continued fossil fuel use despite Wisconsin’s official commitment to achieve 100% carbon-free electricity by 2050. The lawsuit seeks to invalidate these statutes, arguing that
energyrenewable-energyclimate-changefossil-fuelsenvironmental-lawgreenhouse-gas-emissionsclean-energy-policyFossil Fuels Or Food: Which Is Worse For Climate Change? - CleanTechnica
The article from CleanTechnica addresses the misconception that food production contributes more to climate change than fossil fuels, clarifying that fossil fuels are the dominant driver of global greenhouse gas emissions. While agriculture does contribute to climate change, its share is significantly smaller compared to fossil fuels. Multiple authoritative sources, including the United Nations, World Resources Institute, and the US Environmental Protection Agency, consistently report that fossil fuel combustion—coal, oil, and natural gas—accounts for roughly 75% or more of global greenhouse gas emissions and nearly 90% of carbon dioxide emissions. This overwhelming contribution makes fossil fuels the primary target for climate change mitigation efforts. The article further highlights statements and actions from leading academic institutions such as Harvard, Yale, UC Berkeley, Oxford, and Cambridge, all emphasizing the critical role of fossil fuels in driving climate change, public health crises, environmental injustice, and biodiversity loss. These universities are actively working toward fossil fuel divestment and net-zero emissions goals, reflecting a broad consensus in the scientific
energyfossil-fuelsclimate-changegreenhouse-gas-emissionscarbon-dioxiderenewable-energyenvironmental-impact8 Hints To Reduce Your Food Footprint - CleanTechnica
The article "8 Hints To Reduce Your Food Footprint" from CleanTechnica highlights the significant environmental impact of global food systems, which contribute nearly 30% of greenhouse gas emissions. It emphasizes that every stage of food production and consumption—from growing and processing to packaging, transporting, and disposing—uses energy and generates emissions. The piece encourages individuals to make mindful food choices to reduce their personal food footprint and offers practical strategies to do so. Key recommendations include limiting ultra-processed foods in favor of fresh fruits and vegetables, which tend to be healthier for both people and the planet. Reducing food waste is also critical; planning meals, rotating refrigerated items, and creatively using leftovers can minimize household food waste, which accounts for over a third of all household waste. Adopting a primarily plant-based diet is another major suggestion, as meat and dairy production use the majority of farmland and produce a disproportionate share of agricultural emissions while providing a relatively small percentage of calories and protein. The article also advocates
energygreenhouse-gas-emissionsfood-footprintsustainable-food-systemsplant-based-dietcarbon-footprintenvironmental-impactLentils Have More Protein Than Hamburger? - CleanTechnica
The article from CleanTechnica highlights that lentils contain more protein per 100-gram serving than ground beef, with lentils providing 23.6 grams of protein compared to 17.5 grams in beef. Lentils also have significantly less fat (1.92 grams versus 19.2 grams in beef), and they offer a range of essential nutrients including potassium, iron, zinc, magnesium, manganese, copper, and calcium. Unlike beef, lentils contain almost no sodium or cholesterol. While lentils are lower in the amino acid methionine, they are not deficient, and can be combined with other plant foods such as beans, nuts, seeds, quinoa, and sweet potatoes to ensure a complete amino acid profile. Beyond nutritional benefits, the article emphasizes the environmental impact of food choices, noting that lentils are among the lower greenhouse gas emitters compared to beef, which is one of the highest contributors to agricultural emissions. Given that Americans are the largest consumers of beef globally,
energysustainabilityclimate-changegreenhouse-gas-emissionsagricultureprotein-sourcesenvironmental-impactThe ICJ Rules That Failing to Combat Climate Change Could Violate International Law
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) issued a landmark advisory opinion stating that countries failing to take decisive action against climate change may be violating international law and could be held liable for damages caused to humanity. The ICJ, the UN’s highest judicial body, unanimously emphasized the urgent and existential nature of the climate crisis, declaring that a “clean, healthy, and sustainable environment” is a human right. This framing elevates climate change from an environmental or economic issue to one of justice and fundamental rights, potentially influencing future international legislation and litigation by making it easier to hold polluting states accountable. The advisory opinion arose from a 2019 initiative by students from Vanuatu, a Pacific island nation vulnerable to climate impacts, who sought legal recognition of government inaction on climate change as an existential risk. The ICJ analyzed obligations under key international treaties—including the UN Charter, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Paris Agreement, and Kyoto Protocol—and concluded that states must act with due diligence to prevent environmental harm caused
energyclimate-changeinternational-lawgreenhouse-gas-emissionsenvironmental-justicesustainable-environmentclimate-litigationInternational Court Of Justice Rules Climate Change Is "Existential Threat" - CleanTechnica
The International Court of Justice (ICJ), a United Nations body, issued a landmark advisory opinion on July 23, 2025, declaring climate change an “existential threat” that demands urgent global action. The Court emphasized that states have a legal obligation to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, honor international climate agreements, and protect vulnerable populations and ecosystems. ICJ President Yuji Iwasawa underscored that human activities are unequivocally responsible for emissions causing cross-border harm, and failure to act may constitute an internationally wrongful act. The Court also recognized a “clean, healthy and sustainable environment” as a human right, aligning with similar constitutional provisions in some states, such as Montana. While the ruling is advisory and not legally binding, it places a clear duty on countries to implement binding measures consistent with climate treaties, particularly urging industrialized nations to lead due to their historical emissions. The Court called for national climate plans to be “progressive” and ambitious enough to limit global warming to 1
energyclimate-changegreenhouse-gas-emissionsenvironmental-lawsustainabilityclean-environmentglobal-warmingThe News About EVs Was Bright But Now The Future Is So Uncertain - CleanTechnica
The article from CleanTechnica highlights the mixed outlook for electric vehicles (EVs) amid recent positive developments and emerging challenges. On the optimistic side, EV adoption is gaining momentum, particularly in Europe, where cleaner electricity grids and improved battery electric vehicle (BEV) technology have led to a 73% reduction in life-cycle greenhouse gas emissions compared to gasoline cars—an improvement over previous estimates. This progress is supported by growing consumer acceptance, decreasing new EV prices in the U.S., and the increasing importance of total cost of ownership in buyer decisions. Additionally, used EVs are becoming more valuable, contributing to a more robust secondary market. However, the future of EVs in the U.S. is clouded by policy uncertainty and weakening incentives. Key elements of the Inflation Reduction Act that supported EV sales, including $7,500 tax credits for new EVs and $4,000 credits for used EVs, are set to expire by September 30, 2023. This abrupt policy
energyelectric-vehiclesEV-marketgreenhouse-gas-emissionsclean-energytransportation-sectorbattery-electric-carsElectric Cars Are 73% Cleaner, ICCT Study Shows - CleanTechnica
A recent study by the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT) reveals that battery electric cars (BEVs) sold in Europe emit nearly four times less greenhouse gases over their lifetime compared to gasoline cars, making them about 73% cleaner overall. The study rigorously addresses common misconceptions, particularly the claim that BEVs have higher emissions due to battery manufacturing. While battery production does generate roughly 40% more emissions initially, this "emissions debt" is typically offset after about 17,000 kilometers of driving—usually within the first one to two years of use in Europe. The ICCT emphasizes that their life cycle analysis incorporates real-world data, including vehicle production, fuel and electricity generation, maintenance, and recycling, as well as the evolving electricity grid mix over the vehicle’s lifetime. The study also highlights a 25% reduction in lifetime emissions from battery electric cars over the past four years, largely due to the increasing share of renewable energy in Europe’s electricity generation. In contrast, hybrids
energyelectric-vehiclesbattery-technologygreenhouse-gas-emissionsclean-energylifecycle-analysissustainable-transportationUS defense spending cuts could 'match' energy needs of a small country
A recent peer-reviewed study published in PLOS Climate, led by Ryan Thombs of Penn State University, reveals that sustained cuts in US military spending could significantly reduce the Department of Defense’s (DoD) energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. Analyzing data from 1975 to 2022, the researchers found a strong correlation between defense budget fluctuations and the Pentagon’s energy use, particularly in jet fuel, vehicle operations, and facility maintenance. Notably, reductions in military funding yield disproportionately larger energy savings compared to the energy increases caused by budget growth, suggesting that modest defense cuts could produce substantial environmental benefits without compromising military readiness. Projecting forward to 2032, the study’s scenario modeling indicates that sustained defense budget cuts could save energy equivalent to the total annual consumption of a small country such as Slovenia or the US state of Delaware. While the authors caution that military spending reductions should not be seen as a standalone climate solution, they emphasize the importance of addressing the DoD’s vast energy footprint
energyenergy-consumptiondefense-spendingDepartment-of-Defensegreenhouse-gas-emissionsclimate-impactmilitary-energy-useHelium & Hot Air: Saskatchewan’s Greenwashing Sustainability Claims - CleanTechnica
The article critiques Saskatchewan’s government for promoting misleading sustainability claims, particularly highlighting an ad campaign that touts the province as a leader in environmental stewardship. A key example is the province’s helium production being equated to planting billions of trees. While Saskatchewan’s helium extraction produces relatively low greenhouse gas emissions compared to global standards—due to a unique geological occurrence where helium is found alongside nitrogen rather than methane—this advantage is a matter of geological luck rather than deliberate environmental policy. The province is essentially marketing this natural quirk as a conscious sustainability achievement, despite continuing significant emissions from oil and gas extraction, which accounts for about 30% of its greenhouse gases. The article further contextualizes Saskatchewan’s overall environmental impact, noting that it remains one of Canada’s highest per-capita emitters of greenhouse gases, with roughly 74 million tons of CO2 equivalent emitted in 2023—about six times the per-capita emissions of Ontario or Quebec. Besides oil and gas, major emission sources include coal and natural
energyhelium-extractionsustainabilitygreenhouse-gas-emissionsmethane-emissionsnatural-gasenvironmental-policyThe EPA, Power Plants And Planetary Boundaries - Everything Is Connected - CleanTechnica
The article discusses the recent announcement by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to repeal all greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions standards for fossil fuel-fired power plants, effectively eliminating regulations established under previous administrations, notably those of Barack Obama and Joe Biden. The EPA’s justification centers on the claim that carbon dioxide emissions from thermal power plants have decreased from about 5.5% of global emissions in 2005 to approximately 3% today, arguing that further reductions would have minimal impact on public health. The proposal includes repealing emission guidelines for existing fossil fuel steam units and carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) standards for coal-fired plants and new turbines, signaling a significant rollback of environmental protections. Supporters of the rollback, including EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin, former President Donald Trump, and industry representatives like the National Mining Association and West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey, praise the move as a boost to coal power, energy dominance, and economic development. They emphasize the importance of
energyEPApower-plantsgreenhouse-gas-emissionsfossil-fuelscarbon-captureenvironmental-policyWomen Live In Ways That Emit Less Carbon Than Men - So What? - CleanTechnica
The article from CleanTechnica discusses the gender differences in carbon footprints, highlighting that women generally have lower carbon emissions than men due to differences in consumption patterns, particularly in diet and transportation. It emphasizes that mitigating climate change requires changes in personal consumption, especially in high-emission sectors such as food choices and commuting methods. For example, in France, diet and transport account for about half of an individual's carbon footprint, with men’s higher emissions largely driven by greater consumption of red meat and more frequent use of cars. The study cited suggests that if all men adopted women’s consumption habits without reducing women’s, significant reductions in carbon emissions could be achieved, particularly in food (1.9 MtCO2e) and transport (11.5 MtCO2e). The article contrasts the US and France, noting that the average American’s carbon footprint (about 16 tons/year) is substantially higher than that of the average French person (9.2 tons/year), partly due to cultural norms that promote consumption as a status symbol, especially among men. This includes preferences for muscle cars and frequent upgrades of technology, which contribute to excessive emissions. Indoor energy use, such as air conditioning and fuel-burning appliances, also plays a significant role in the US carbon footprint. The article also points out that household structure influences emissions, with couples and families showing different patterns in food and transport footprints. Overall, the findings imply that climate policies should consider gender and social roles, as women’s consumption patterns may be more aligned with net-zero goals, while men may face greater behavioral and cultural barriers to reducing emissions.
energycarbon-footprintclimate-changegreenhouse-gas-emissionsconsumption-patternstransportation-emissionsenergy-consumptionAI Is Eating Data Center Power Demand—and It’s Only Getting Worse
energyAIdata-centerspower-demandgreenhouse-gas-emissionssustainabilityclimate-impactUK Startup IDs A New Hope For Algae Biofuel: Carbon-Negative Production
energybiofuelcarbon-capturerenewable-energymicroalgaeclean-technologygreenhouse-gas-emissionsTrump Should Be Held Accountable For Defunding Renewable Energy Projects
renewable-energyclimate-changesolar-powerwind-energyenergy-policyclean-energygreenhouse-gas-emissionsGiảm phát thải và duy trì nguồn cấp điện tin cậy từ máy phát điện Diesel
energygreenhouse-gas-emissionsdiesel-generatorsrenewable-energyenvironmental-regulationsenergy-transitionsustainable-development