Whenever you tune into the news or open up your newspaper, there seems to be a focus on bad news. We rarely take the time to look for the good news, because we are too busy focussing on everything that has or could go wrong. The same applies in the environment sector, we spend so much of our time reading about missed targets or new fossil fuel projects, that we miss all of the good things that are happening too.
In this blog, we have taken the time to highlight a few positive environment news stories from the past month. We want to prove that it’s not all doom and gloom, there’s room for bloom too!
Ofgem clear the way for new eco energy projects
UK energy regulator Ofgem is implementing rules to remove "zombie" wind and solar projects from the extensive queue to connect to the country's electricity grid. This move aims to expedite the process of linking new energy projects to the grid, addressing a backlog that impedes investment and the transition to clean energy. Currently, projects are connected on a first-come, first-served basis, resulting in developers waiting up to 15 years to start generating power.
Ofgem plans to grant National Grid's electricity system operator the power to terminate projects not meeting specific milestones, such as proof of funding or planning permission. This termination authority will apply to projects with a connection date after November 2025. The decision comes as 60-70% of projects in the queue fail to materialise or connect, and the number of projects in the queue increased from 600 in May to 1,000 by September. The average time between connection request and offer has risen from 18 months in 2019-20 to five years in 2023.
If all current queue projects were developed, they would generate 400 gigawatts, far exceeding the UK's existing 65GW capacity. However, over 40% of this capacity is tied to contracts with connection dates of 2030 or later. Ofgem's move aims to phase out the first-come, first-served system, prioritising quicker connections for projects ready to contribute to the grid and addressing the urgent need for changes to unlock investment and expedite network build.
For more detail, go to this article in the Guardian.
Foliage to the rescue – new invention could replace fossil fuels
In a groundbreaking development at the University of Cambridge, researchers have unveiled a revolutionary system for producing net-zero fuel using automated floating factories. The technology is based on a floating artificial leaf that utilises sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide to create synthetic fuel without generating fossil-derived carbon dioxide emissions. This innovative approach aims to 'defossilise' the economy by shifting away from burning ancient carbon sources like coal, oil, and gas.
The artificial leaf, inspired by natural photosynthesis, envisions deploying carpets of the technology on lakes and river estuaries, where they can efficiently convert water and carbon dioxide into the components of petrol and other fuels using sunlight. The goal is to produce green, sustainable fuels such as kerosene for aviation and alternative options for cargo vessels, which currently contribute over 3% of the world's industrial carbon dioxide emissions.
One of the advantages of this technology is its ability to float, eliminating the need for large land areas required for conventional fuel production methods. The researchers also highlight the versatility of these floating solar fuel leaves, suggesting applications in supplying coastal settlements, islands, industrial ponds, and irrigation canals. The team has established a startup company to commercialise this groundbreaking technology, emphasising the need for substantial investment to scale up the production for a meaningful impact on carbon emissions at an industrial level.
Read more about this innovative invention here.
Preparing for the Storm – how one city is preparing for climate change
Hoboken, New Jersey, is defying climate challenges with innovative measures to combat flooding. Situated in a floodplain, the city is predicted to become the new Atlantis by 2100. Following Hurricane Sandy in 2012, Hoboken took a holistic approach, not only focusing on flood walls but also enhancing infrastructure to manage rainwater effectively.
The city rebuilt sewers, increased capacity, and integrated new initiatives with amenities desired by residents, such as parks and playgrounds equipped with cisterns and basins. Collaborating with international experts through the Rebuild by Design initiative, Hoboken received federal assistance to create an integrated plan for storm surge and heavy rains, including elevating power lines and constructing flood protections.
In September of this year, Hoboken's ResilienCity Park demonstrated the success of its green infrastructure by collecting over 1.4 million gallons of rainwater in its storage tanks in one morning. Hoboken's chief resilience officer highlighted the city's readiness to manage 9 out of 10 rain events without significant flooding. While across the river Brooklyn was dealing with flooded basements and knee-high water, thanks to its innovative city planning, Hoboken was relatively unscathed.
The Rebuild by Design and Ramboll study suggests that every dollar invested in green infrastructure yields $2 in avoided losses and additional benefits. Hoboken's proactive measures and resilience efforts serve as a positive example in the face of climate change, emphasising how coordination within city government and dedication yields optimal results.
Find out more in this New York Time’s article.
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