Western Pennsylvania, known as the birthplace of the oil and gas industry, is facing pressure from climate change activists. The author argues that the industry is vital to the region’s economy and that lawsuits targeting energy companies are misguided. They assert that true environmentalists should focus on major polluters like India and China, not American companies.
The share of electricity generated by coal and gas in the UK has plummeted to a record low of just 2.4%, marking significant progress towards the goal of a zero-carbon electricity system. In 2024, there have already been 75 half-hour periods when fossil fuels accounted for less than 5% of power demand, compared to only 5 such periods in 2022. The decline in fossil fuel usage is driven by the increasing deployment of renewable energy sources such as wind and solar, as well as the retirement of coal plants and a reduction in the share of electricity generated by gas.
The UK’s electricity generation from fossil fuels, primarily coal and gas, reached a record low of 2.4% in April 2024. This milestone highlights the country’s progress towards a carbon-neutral future. The average daily share of electricity from fossil fuels has also declined to a new low of 6.4%, marking a significant shift in the nation’s energy landscape. The National Grid Electricity System Operator (ESO) aims to operate with 100% zero carbon power from renewables and nuclear sources for short periods from 2025, advancing the UK towards its goal of decarbonizing the grid by 2035.
In an unprecedented move, 58% of shareholders in Australian oil and gas giant Woodside have rejected the company’s decarbonization plans, marking the largest investor uprising against a major emitter’s climate approach. Environmental activists and large investors criticized Woodside’s targets as insufficient and urged the board to align its business with international efforts to mitigate global warming. The vote, though non-binding, is a significant blow to Woodside’s board, who spent two years engaging with shareholders to improve its strategy.
Europe is facing challenges in its energy transition, but holds a key position for success. To achieve climate neutrality by 2050, the continent must accelerate the adoption of renewable energy and phase out fossil fuels. However, recent setbacks due to geopolitical tensions highlight the need for continued efforts and investments.
Negotiations on a global treaty to curb plastic pollution have stalled, with critics blaming the United States for its lack of leadership. Scientists and environmentalists argue that the US, as the world’s largest producer of fossil fuels and plastics, has a responsibility to drive bold measures to reduce plastic waste. However, US negotiators have prioritized recycling and waste management policies favored by the fossil fuel and petrochemical industries, which critics say will not significantly reduce plastic pollution.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz announced the decline of fossil fuels and the shift towards renewable energy sources. By 2030, Germany aims to generate 80% of its electricity from renewable sources, including solar, wind, and hydropower. The move comes amid energy challenges caused by the Ukraine conflict and the EU’s commitment to climate neutrality by mid-century.
