Edition 4 | March 24, 2025 |
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A newsletter with 5 or more climate resources to inform and inspire action |
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01 | Solar and Wind Are Soaring |
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Overview: This interactive map from The New York Times visualizes the explosion of solar and wind energy projects worldwide. It highlights a global race to install clean energy at unprecedented speed.
Takeaways: - ✅ China and the U.S. lead in total new solar and wind capacity
- 🌱 Emerging markets like Brazil, India, and South Africa show major growth
- 🔍 Wind projects dominate in northern Europe; solar dominates in sunnier regions
- 🚀 Land availability and permitting are shaping where clean energy is built
Keywords: solar, wind, energy transition, global clean energy, renewables, maps, deployment |
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02 | Grid Connection Barriers in the US |
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Overview: A new report from Berkeley Lab reveals the growing backlog of proposed power plants waiting to connect to the U.S. power grid. With demand surging, the interconnection process is slowing progress on clean energy expansion.
Takeaways: - 📈 95% of queued capacity is solar, battery storage, and wind
- ⏳ Interconnection wait times have increased by 70% over the past decade
- 🔁 80% of projects in the queue are ultimately withdrawn
- 💸 Interconnection costs for wind and solar have risen significantly, especially for withdrawn projects, due to unpredictable network upgrade charges and regional grid constraints
Keywords: grid, interconnection, renewables, transmission, solar, wind |
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03 | Global Freshwater Distribution |
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Overview: Only a small fraction of Earth’s water is fresh—and even less is accessible. This breakdown reveals global water use patterns and where conservation is most urgent.
Takeaways: - 🌎 97% of Earth's water is saline; only 3% is freshwater
- ❄️ Two-thirds of freshwater is locked in glaciers and ice caps
- 🌾 Agriculture uses 70% of global freshwater
- 📈 Water demand is projected to rise 50% by 2050
Keywords: water, freshwater, scarcity, agriculture, sustainability |
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04 | Can Coral Reefs Beat the Heat? |
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Overview: Despite worsening ocean heatwaves, new research shows some coral species are developing resilience. This emerging science offers hope that targeted conservation can protect reef ecosystems.
Takeaways: - 🔥 Some coral species exhibit heat-resistant traits
- 🧬 Adaptations involve symbiosis with algae and microbiome shifts
- 🌊 Focused protection of resilient species could aid survival
- 🔬 Long-term monitoring is essential for future adaptation strategies
Keywords: coral reefs, oceans, marine life, climate adaptation, biodiversity |
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05 | What is Biophilic Design? |
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Overview: Biophilic design brings nature into the built environment—blending aesthetics with wellness. This 2024 feature explores how architecture is being reshaped by our innate need to connect with nature.
Takeaways: - 🌞 Emphasizes natural light, vegetation, and organic materials
- 🧠 Supports mental health and reduces stress in indoor spaces
- 🏢 Used in schools, hospitals, airports, and corporate offices
- 🌱 Popular features include green walls, indoor gardens, and timber accents
Keywords: biophilic design, architecture, buildings, wellness, nature |
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