U.K. carbon emissions down 37% since 1990
A final report of the U.K.’s carbon emissions from 1990-2017 has found that CO2 levels have fallen again.
2019 C.E.
Florida Power & Light plans for 30 million solar panels by 2030
The “30 by 30” expansion will change the dynamics and make Florida a real leader of solar in the world.
Indian soap opera called “I, A Woman, Can Achieve Anything” becomes world’s most watched TV show
The show designed by an NGO to promote sexual health and family planning. It now has over 400 million viewers from over 50 countries.
Alphabet’s Jigsaw extends its cyber protections to Europe’s upcoming elections
Jigsaw, the Alphabet unit that aims to make the world safer through technology, is expanding its Project Shield technology that protects against distributed denial of services attacks to European political organizations, campaigns, and candidates.
Majority of Americans say transgender people should be allowed in military
70% of respondents in the Quinnipiac University poll said transgender people should be allowed to serve, while only 22 percent said they should not.
Ben & Jerry’s to phase out all single-use plastic utensils in all of its 600 stores worldwide
The first step of the new plan is to no longer offer plastic straws or spoons beginning early this year. The ultimate goal is to find an alternative to clear plastic cups, plastic-lined cups, and plastic lids by the end of 2020.
Global market for smart solar street lighting projected to hit $18 billion annually by 2024
Smart solar street lighting saves money and is better for the environment. The city of Syracuse, for example, is purchasing the more than 17,500 street lights that will deliver more than $3 million in annual savings to its operating budget.
Germany to close all 84 of its coal-fired power plants by 2038
Germany, one of the world’s biggest consumers of coal, will shut down all 84 of its coal-fired power plants over the next 19 years to meet its international commitments in the fight against climate change, a government commission said.
Bali to impose ‘tourist tax’ for plastic pollution
Bali is facing a plastic pollution crisis, producing over 3,800 tonnes of waste every day and has now drafted a bylaw on tourist contributions for the environment and cultural preservation. The ‘tourist tax’ will involve a fee of $10 for overseas visitors to the island.
Scientists report that coral reefs in West Hawaii are now recovering from bleaching
“We surveyed over 14,000 coral colonies at 20 sites along the West Hawaii coast from Kawaihae to Keauhou and were thrilled to see that many of the area’s reefs have stabilized, which is the first step toward recovery.”