The Week in Sustainability

The 28th annual Conference of the Parties (COP28), hosted by the United Nations, wrapped this week. It marked a significant shift in the climate change dialogue. The event brought together over 100 country delegations, climate scientists, business leaders, activists, indigenous peoples, and journalists, fostering a platform for pivotal discussions and decisions. 

If you've followed news surrounding previous COPs, you’re no stranger to the rollercoaster ride they can become. The high- and low-lights:

Controversies and context

• Location and leadership: COP28 in Dubai, led by Sultan Al Jaber of the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company, sparked controversy due to the UAE's status as a major oil producer and potential conflicts of interest.
• Record attendance and lobbyist presence: COP28 attracted over 100,000 attendees despite the controversies, indicating a growing interest in climate discussions. However, the unprecedented presence of fossil fuel lobbyistsraised concerns about the event's alignment with oil and gas interests.

Key highlights

1. Loss and damage fund: A significant win was the establishment of a fund to support the Global South, which is significantly affected by climate crises. However, the pledged amount needs to catch up to the estimated need.
2. Methane and refrigerant regulations: Progress emerged in tackling harmful greenhouse gases, with new rules in the U.S. and EU targeting methane emissions reduction. Meanwhile, 63 countries committed to the Cooling Pledge, aiming to cut coolant emissions.
3. Renewable energy and agriculture initiatives: Governments pledged to triple renewable energy capacity by 2030 and address the climate impact of agriculture, mainly focusing on meat and dairy emissions.
4. Voluntary carbon market standards: The International Organization of Securities Commissions proposed measures to enhance the integrity of Voluntary Carbon Markets, indicating a move toward more rigorous standards.
5. Global stocktake – fossil fuel phase-out: The final COP agreement included language about transitioning away from fossil fuels but fell short of the strong commitment activists sought.

Looking ahead

• The next two COPs (COP29 will be in Azerbaijan) are crucial to establish new climate finance goals and updating nationally determined contributions.
• Our perspective: The agreements reached are a step forward, but practical implementation remains vital. We approach these developments with cautious optimism, recognizing the need for action that matches the urgency of the climate challenge.

COP28 brought to light the complexities and challenges in global climate negotiations. We recognize the importance of these discussions and remain committed to leading the way in sustainable practices and solutions. The journey toward a more sustainable future continues, and we're here to guide and support businesses and individuals in making impactful choices for the planet.

As the festive season approaches, our excitement to celebrate often matches a surge in shopping activities. However, understanding the impact of this increased consumerism on retailer emissions is vital. This week, we explored the significant effects of our holiday shopping habits on the emission profiles of retailers, focusing primarily on Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions.

Understanding retailer emissions

• Scope 1 emissions: During the holiday season, retailers often extend their store hours, increasing natural gas use for heating and other direct emissions from the stores.
• Scope 2 emissions: The festive lighting and extended operating hours result in a spike in electricity consumption, contributing to a retailer's Scope 2 emissions.
• Scope 3 emissions: This category sees the most significant increase during the holidays. With more goods and services purchased, the entire value chain of retailers is affected, leading to higher emissions.

How consumers can make a difference

As consumers, our choices have a powerful impact on retailer emissions. Here are some ways we can help reduce their environmental footprint:

1. Conscious purchasing: Opting for eco-friendly and sustainably packaged products can significantly reduce retailers' Scope 3 emissions.
2. Reducing transportation emissions: In e-commerce, choosing consolidated shipping options can lower transportation and distribution emissions.
3. Longevity in products: By selecting products with a longer lifespan, we can decrease the frequency of purchases, thus impacting the use and emissions of sold products.

Embracing sustainability in our festive shopping

The holiday season is a period of increased consumption and an opportunity to be mindful of our environmental impact. By making informed and sustainable choices, we, as consumers, can play a crucial role in shaping the sustainability practices of retailers. This period gives us a unique chance to influence the Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions of retailers and, by extension, contribute positively to the environment.

As we enter the holiday season, remember that our purchasing power extends beyond the products we buy; it's a tool for environmental advocacy.

Australia's ambitious climate goals: On the Vverge of COP28

As we gear up for COP28, Australia has made notable climate strides that can't go unnoticed. Under Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, the country has set ambitious goals to reduce emissions by 43% by 2030, a significant leap from the previous 28% target. At COP28, Energy Minister Chris Bowen will present a report indicating that Australia is on track for a 37% reduction with existing programs while aiming for 42%. Here are just a few bold steps Australia has taken on climate action:

1. Safeguard mechanism in heavy industry: A groundbreaking policy compels industrial facilities emitting over 100,000 metric tons of CO2e annually to cut emissions. This policy includes mining and oil and gas production facilities, marking a significant step towards reducing emissions.
2. Electric vehicle (EV) strategy: Despite the absence of a new fuel efficiency standard, Australia's EV strategy is promising, focusing on infrastructure and charging access. The federal push is encouraging more EV brands to enter the market, signifying a shift in the supply-demand balance.
3. Rapid adoption of rooftop solar: Australia is the fastest-growing rooftop solar market globally, reflecting the community's strong desire for an energy transition. Policies at federal, state, and council levels support renewable home energy, though affordability remains a challenge.

Community's role in climate action

The climate policy in Australia is not just top-down; community involvement is pivotal. This week, climate activists organized a protest in Newcastle, arresting 109 people for blocking coal shipping and emphasizing the public's demand for swifter climate action. The protest, including diverse participants like retired coal miners and high school students, underscores a collective push for a just and swift transition away from fossil fuels.

Australia's climate action, backed by government policies and community activism, is a beacon of hope. As we witness these developments, it's clear that a sustainable future is not just a vision but can be an achievable reality. 

The National Climate Assessment: risks, progress, and opportunities

This week, the National Climate Assessment was released, a pivotal report crafted every five years by major U.S. Federal agencies. This 2023 edition did not shy away from the stark climate risks looming over us. Yet, it's not all doom and gloom. The report underscores significant strides in climate action across the U.S. since 2018, with unexpected frontrunners like Virginia, Texas, and Florida making remarkable progress.

Even though these states are not known to implement climate mitigation efforts, these actions aren't just about environmental protection but have the potential to increase economic opportunities. Initiatives like grid expansion and energy efficiency are pivotal for a sustainable future and job creation engines in states like Nevada, Vermont, and Alaska.

A compelling takeaway from the report is the potential of a 100% renewable pathway. By 2050, this could result in a net creation of 6 million jobs, offsetting the decline in fossil fuel industry employment. It's a resounding affirmation that the clean energy economy isn't just beneficial for the environment but also for the job market.

International climate action: China and the U.S. unite

Switching to more of an international stage, the U.S. and China declared their commitment toward more renewable energy. China's pledge to set reduction targets for all greenhouse gases, not just CO2, is particularly notable.

While much of this remains symbolic, the symbolism carries weight. As the U.N.'s COP28 approaches, this collaboration between the world's largest current and historical climate polluters sends a powerful message of readiness to cooperate, potentially smoothing the path for future global climate negotiations.

This agreement between China and the U.S. didn't materialize overnight. Months of negotiations have laid a foundation of trust and relationship-building, essential for future collaborative efforts. Thus, we view this as a step in the right direction, a glimmer of hope in the ongoing battle against climate change.

Navigating the complexities of the Inflation Reduction Act and highway infrastructure

The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), with its substantial $369 billion funding package, stands at the forefront of America's push toward a greener future. Yet, its recent entanglement with Texas's highway infrastructure plans has raised eyebrows. The proposal to allocate $112 million of IRA funds to expand highways aims at reducing congestion and idling. 

However, this move has sparked debate due to its seemingly counterintuitive alignment with the bill's decarbonization goals. Critics argue that such an approach only scratches the surface of potential environmental benefits and bypasses more impactful opportunities to reduce fossil fuel dependence. Texas's transport sector, a significant emitter, could benefit more from investments in electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, alternative fuels, and optimized freight logistics.

The GOP’s climate conundrum

The landscape of climate politics and policy reveals a complex interplay of economic interests, environmental imperatives, and ideological commitments. 

The Republican presidential candidates’ stances on climate change illuminate the intricate dance between acknowledging environmental issues and towing the party line. There is a consensus on the reality of climate change but a division on human responsibility. The GOP historically promotes energy independence and domestic production while pointing fingers at global emitters, overlooking the U.S.'s substantial historical emissions. Candidates predominantly support the expansion of domestic fossil fuels, with a notable divide over coal usage. Chris Christie singularly champions a comprehensive shift toward renewables, yet paradoxically stands alongside his peers in opposing the 2015 Paris Accord.

Furthermore, despite the advantages of the IRA for Republican districts, not one Republican candidate supports the Act's clean energy incentives. This contradiction underscores the intense politicization of climate issues. It also raises concerns about the economic wisdom of opposing measures that could foster the desired energy independence and economic growth.

The pressing question remains: Can political leaders transcend partisanship to forge a path toward a sustainable and economically robust future?

This week, we’ve witnessed several impactful developments across two high-contributing factors to climate change: mining and garbage. The UK has taken a firm stand against deep-sea mining, acknowledging its potential impact on our warming oceans. At the same time, U.S. state officials have called on the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to bolster waste management initiatives.

‍Navigating the deep sea dilemma

‍Due to the depths of our oceans, there is a delicate balance between extracting necessary minerals from the seabed and protecting an environment largely shrouded in mystery. While we've mapped 100% of the ocean floor, it still eludes our current climate knowledge and the impact of deep-sea mining. 

The UK recently joined 20 countries, including Germany, Brazil, and Canada, in calling for a moratorium on commercial deep-sea mining. Car manufacturers like BMW and Volvo have also voiced their opposition, pledging not to accept minerals like nickel and cobalt sourced from the deep sea.

However, the difficulty lies in the pivotal role these minerals play in our transition to renewable energy. With on-land mining supply lagging behind growing demand, the question becomes: How can we accelerate climate action without jeopardizing the marine ecosystem?

‍Addressing land-based issues: Methane from landfills

Shifting focus back to land, a letter penned by 56 city officials from 18 U.S. states to the EPA underscored the significant contribution landfills have on the nation's emissions, which are responsible for about 14% of U.S. methane emissions. Of note: The letter pointed out that methane is 28 times more potent than carbon dioxide.

The call to action has two main asks:

• A plan to phase out organic material in landfills by 2040.
• An update to landfill standards to incorporate advanced technologies for detecting and mitigating methane leaks.

While many local governments have made strides in reducing food waste through composting programs, the leaders urge the EPA to expand grant funding, making these initiatives more widespread and accessible to the public, thereby addressing a substantial contributor to climate change.

‍Striking the balance

‍From the ocean's depths to our backyards, pursuing sustainable solutions requires a delicate equilibrium. As nations and industries grapple with the urgency of climate action, the tug-of-war between traditional environmentalism and rapid renewable expansion becomes apparent.

In addressing these concerns, the UK's stance against deep sea mining emphasizes caution, while U.S. officials' appeal to the EPA underscores the necessity of immediate waste management action. 

The Week in Sustainability

October 23–27

This week:

– DOE’s new funding: The Department of Energy has committed a whopping $3.5B towards upgrading the electric grid. Stemming from the bipartisan infrastructure law of 2021, this move aims at enhancing the grid’s resiliency and capacity.

– GM’s unionization: GM (General Motors) is taking the lead amidst an ongoing auto worker strike by permitting its EV battery plant workers to unionize under the United Autoworkers Union.

About The Week in Sustainability

Each week, Sustain.Life’s sustainability team offers commentary about the week’s most pressing issues and stories in sustainability and ESG.

About Sustain.Life

Sustain.Life helps future-proof businesses by fighting climate change. ​

Learn more: www.sustain.life

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As climate change continues its relentless march, the call for more transparent, standardized, and actionable sustainability reporting grows louder. The UK's recently unveiled Transition Disclosure Framework (TDF), coined by the UK Transition Plan Taskforce (TPT), is the latest entrant into the world of ESG standards and metrics. But what does it mean for companies and investors alike?

About Sustain.Life Sustain.Life helps future-proof businesses by fighting climate change. ​

Learn more: www.sustain.life

New California laws to reshape climate reporting

The new climate legislation in the Golden State is, and has been, making big headlines. Governor Gavin Newsom has put his signature on SB 253 and SB 261. Starting in 2026, California will expect businesses generating more than $1 billion in revenue to publicly disclose their scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions. Furthermore, companies with revenue surpassing $500 million must highlight their climate-related financial risks, according to SB 261. While the SEC’s similar initiative focuses mainly on public companies, California’s legislation casts a considerably wider net.

Ember’s deep dive into 2023’s power trends

Independent energy think tank Ember’s recent analysis revealed some telling data on the global power sector. Its goal? Ascertain whether we’re on the right track to attain net-zero emissions by 2035. Results are mixed, which suggests we’re on the cusp of a monumental shift.

1. Renewable energy’s meteoric rise: Between January and June 2023, wind and solar generation globally increased by 12%. In comparison, fossil fuel generation barely budged, growing only by 0.1%. Notably, 50 countries set new records in solar energy production.
2. Hydropower’s unexpected dip: Despite being the oldest renewable source, hydropower faced challenges in 2023. As China grappled with heatwaves and droughts, its hydropower generation—the largest globally—decreased by 8.5%. Consequently, coal burning became a necessary evil to bridge the gap—a glaring reminder of the climate’s capriciousness and potential impact on the pace of energy transition.
3. Power sector emissions show new patterns: Since 2000, only twice have we seen a reduction in power sector emissions. After the 2009 financial crisis and during the 2019-2020 coronavirus pandemic. Though we witnessed only a minor increase this year, experts believe we would’ve seen a decrease without the unexpected hydropower shortfall.

Time to power up the renewables revolution

2023 has shown us the tangible impact of renewables in our energy mix. The shift is undeniable, but the rate of the shift must get more aggressive and keep pace. As the power landscape changes, so must our strategies. It’s high time we champion renewables more than ever and aim for a zero-emission power sector. 

Last week, New York City witnessed a brief bout of intense rain it hadn’t experienced in over seven decades. In just a day, New York received a month’s worth of rain. For a city revered for its resilience, the downpour exposed glaring infrastructure vulnerabilities.

When streets turned into streams

The city’s streets transformed into treacherous rivers, submerging vehicles mid-road and flooding basement apartments. The sight was eerily reminiscent of the devastating aftermath of Hurricane Ida in 2021. Such events are no longer anomalies—they’re the “new abnormal” as climate change rages on.

An ill-prepared infrastructure

So, why does New York City drown when the heavens open up? The root cause lies in NYC’s sewer system. Designed to process about 1.75 inches of rainfall per hour, it was overwhelmed by the rain, which came down at a rate of two inches per hour.

Furthermore, impermeable surfaces—pavement and rooftops—intensify the issue. These surfaces don’t allow rainwater to seep into the ground, increasing the runoff that sewer systems have to handle. This issue extends beyond dense urban centers and includes the runoff from highways and parking lots, which challenges sewer systems, often causing severe erosion. Recognizing this, NYC now mandates water catchment systems in new constructions and promotes the incorporation of green roofs.

The domino effect on sewer systems

When the sewer system is inundated, problems multiply. Normally, all sewer pipes channel water to wastewater treatment plants where rainwater and sewage undergo treatment before being released into local waterways. However, when overwhelmed, these plants dump untreated sewage and rainwater directly into waterways, known as combined sewer overflow. This is precisely why warnings against swimming in city rivers post-rainstorms exist.

Worse yet, excessive pressure can cause backflow, where sewage water reverses course into buildings. Not only is this nauseating, but it’s also a severe health hazard.

Silent city officials: Cause for concern

One can’t help but notice the lack of proactivity from New York City officials. Despite the evident chaos, the city’s response was noticeably muted. Residents were left uninformed, and it took a staggering 12 hours before the mayor finally addressed the issue.

Perhaps the most telling sign of the times is this: In past major flood events, a hurricane or tropical storm was often the culprit. But this time, the disaster was caused by a storm without a name, emphasizing the increasing unpredictability of our climate.

As thought leaders in the carbon accounting realm, we can’t stress enough the urgency of climate action. The waters of NYC are sending us a clear message: it’s time to pay attention, adapt, and take action.

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