Global Deforestation is Declining | Good Climate News
Global net forest loss has halved since 1990 and many nations are rapidly increasing their forested area, reports Carbon Brief. Forests store an estimated 715 gigatonnes of carbon (GtC), in addition to many other ecosystem services.
Solar, wind and batteries are taking over Texas’ electricity grid, explains Electrek. Solar generation is up 50% from last year’s level, and up nearly 400% since 2021. Wind and solar together make up 36% of Texas’ generation, nearly equal with gas at 37%.
Spain and France are still backing the EU’s policy of banning diesel and gasoline cars by 2035, notes Euronews. The ban was passed in 2023, but European automakers have been lobbying for its repeal.
Battery company Redwood Materials has raised $350 million in new capital, relays TechCrunch. Redwood focuses on collecting used batteries and turning them into new storage projects or recycling their materials.
Ships at ports around the world are slashing emissions by plugging in to local electricity supply rather than run their engines, reveals CBC News. Regulators are increasingly requiring use of so-called “shore power” for both cargo and cruise ships.
Drinking rye whisky can help fight climate change, details Inside Climate News. Rye is an excellent cover crop, sequestering carbon and restoring soil health. Sales of the grain to rye whisky producers offset the cost of this practice.
