Edition 6 | April 21, 2025
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A newsletter with 5 or more climate resources to inform and inspire action
01 | AI’s Data Center Carbon Footprint 
Overview:
AI’s explosive growth is drawing attention for its outsized carbon and water footprints—but it may also be a key ally in solving those very problems. From optimizing building performance to forecasting grid loads and improving climate models, AI is being deployed to reduce emissions and resource use.
Takeaways:  
  • ⚡ Training large-scale AI models still demands immense energy, mostly from fossil-based grids.
  • 💧 Cooling systems for AI data centers pull heavily from local water supplies\
  • 📉 AI is now used to optimize industrial operations, forecast energy demand, and cut waste across buildings and supply chains.
  • 🌿 Supercomputing models powered by AI are accelerating environmental simulations and carbon accounting.
  • 🧠 From agriculture to hydrology, AI tools are helping sectors reduce input use while boosting resilience.
Keywords: AI, emissions, data centers, optimization, water use, climate tech
02 | Repealing the Inflation Reduction Act
Overview:
A recent report warns that repealing the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) could have detrimental effects on state economies and consumer costs. The analysis highlights potential increases in household energy expenses and job losses across the U.S.
Takeaways:  
  • 📈 Household energy bills could rise by $32 billion from 2025 to 2030.
  • 🏭 Potential loss of over 115,000 jobs in clean energy sectors by 2035.
  • 💰 States like Texas may see a GDP reduction exceeding $20 billion.
  • ⚖️ Repeal could undermine progress in renewable energy investments.
  • 🌍 Threatens U.S. commitments to emission reductions.
Keywords: policy, economy, energy costs, job market, climate change
The map in the link is interactive. Click your state to learn more. 
CLICK HERE for Tennessee
 
03 | Sugarcrete: Sustainable Construction
Overview:
Sugarcrete™ is a new low-carbon construction material made from the byproducts of sugarcane production. Developed collaboratively by University of East London researchers and Tate & Lyle Sugars—with design and innovation support from Grimshaw—it offers a strong, sustainable alternative to conventional concrete.
Takeaways:  
  • 🌾 Uses fibrous waste from sugar refining, to reduce reliance on cement.
  • 🏗️ Weighs 4–5x less than concrete while maintaining robust structural properties.
  • ♻️ Modular units are designed for reuse and disassembly, supporting regenerative architecture.
  • 🔥 Meets safety benchmarks with minimal emissions during manufacturing.
  • 🌍 Grimshaw’s team is helping pilot its use in low-carbon urban and rural builds.
Keywords: biomaterials, low-carbon concrete, regenerative design, circular economy, architectural innovation
Watch how Sugarcrete is made HERE.
04 | Moss-Covered Buildings for Cleaner Air
Overview:
Dutch startup Gorespyre is transforming urban landscapes by integrating moss into city structures. Their bioreceptive concrete and specialized moss gel enable the growth of moss on buildings, enhancing air quality and urban biodiversity.
Takeaways:  
  • 🧱 Innovative concrete mix supports moss growth without damaging structures.
  • 🌱 Facilitates controlled and rapid moss development on facades.
  • 💨 Moss absorbs CO₂ and NOx, improving urban air quality.
  • 🌿 Reduces urban heat island effect and noise pollution.
  • 🐝 Provides habitat for insects, promoting ecological balance.
Keywords: biomimicry, green infrastructure, urban design, air quality, biodiversity
05 | The Return of the Dire Wolf
Overview:
Colossal Biosciences has achieved a milestone in de-extinction by bringing back the dire wolf, a species that vanished over 10,000 years ago. Through advanced genetic engineering, they have introduced dire wolf traits into modern gray wolves.
Takeaways:  
  • 🧬 Utilized ancient DNA to recreate dire wolf characteristics.
  • 🐶 Three pups born via domestic dog surrogates exhibit wild behaviors.
  • 🌿 Aims to reintroduce species to restore ecological balance.
  • ⚖️ Raises questions about the implications of de-extinction.
  • 🔬 Techniques may aid in preserving endangered species.
Keywords: de-extinction, genetics, conservation, biodiversity, ethics
06 | Paris Embraces Car-Free Zones
Overview:
If you know me, you know my love for the City of Light. Paris has implemented car-free zones in its central arrondissements, aiming to reduce pollution and enhance urban livability. The initiative has been met with minimal disruption to residents' daily lives. Look at the results!
Takeaways:  
  • 🚗 Bans motorists in key central areas to decrease congestion.
  • 🌬️ Aims to lower emissions and promote cleaner air.
  • 🛍️ Creates more walkable and cyclist-friendly spaces.
  • 🗣️ Residents report little to no negative impact on daily routines.
  • 🌆 Sets a precedent for other cities aiming for sustainable transport solutions.
Keywords: urban planning, transportation, sustainability, air quality, public policy
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