Despite the ups and downs, there are reasons to feel optimistic.
In an article for CNN, Sophie Tanno outlines five positive developments in the renewable energy world in 2023. “Renewable energy records have been set, the world celebrated one of its greatest environmental wins and countries made a cautious but historic step towards a fossil fuel-free future.”
According to Tanno, “The year 2023 is on track to see the biggest increase in renewable energy capacity to date,” and the COP28 summit led to an “unprecedented commitment” to shift away from fossil fuels worldwide. “How impactful this deal ultimately is will depend on what countries do next to implement it,” Tanno adds, “But that a deal was struck at all on fossil fuels was widely welcomed seen as a breakthrough.”
Deforestation in Brazil is down by 22.3 percent, while the ozone layer, damaged by CFCs, is recovering steadily. On the transportation side, electric vehicles saw a surge in popularity as more models became available and affordable, but sellers expect demand to drop off as consumers wait for cheaper models with longer range.
FULL STORY: After a terrible year of climate news, here are 5 reasons to feel positive
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