Cities are not waiting for nation states to give us the solution. They are becoming pioneers in promoting sustainable development and fighting climate change. And they are going beyond nation states commitments. Examples are countless across the world. In Germany there are already more than 144 cities and regions aiming for 100% RE. And examples can be found in every corner of the world: Vancouver, San Diego, San Francisco, Aspen, Frankfurt, Munich, Copenhagen, Malmö, Byron, Canberra, Sydney, Agadir, Kasese, etc. Setting the 100% RE target is likely to be the hardest steps for some cities, due to the political support needed. But it is essential to catalyse action, provide a mandate for action, helping streamline the process, attract investment, and improve coordination across multiple different actors and sectors. Once the target is being set, cities have to identify specific policies that will help them achieve their objective.
World Future Council 26th May 2016 read more »
As December’s landmark climate change summit in Paris (COP21) approached, Ikea made a number of major announcements. It pledged to invest €600m (£471m) in renewable energy projects – in addition to an earlier €1.5bn (£1.2bn) cash injection – and a further €400m (£314m) to support communities vulnerable to climate change. The world’s biggest furniture retailer says it’s going “all in” to have a net positive impact on the climate through renewable energy investment, energy-efficiency measures, cutting supply chain emissions, and product changes designed to achieve behaviour change. It has already helped its suppliers become 18% more energy efficient over the past four years – through the introduction of a sustainability assessment tool and by bringing suppliers together to share sustainability best practice.
Guardian 27th May 2016 read more »
Wyke Farms, which generates electricity, gas and heat from renewable sources. The dairy business in southwest England, which exports 14,000 tonnes of cheddar a year to more than 160 countries, has been building an energy generation and water recycling operation over the past five years to reduce its environmental impact and save money. According to Clothier, it’s been able to lower its energy bills by nearly £100,000 per month as a result. Aside from solar panels, Wyke generates electricity and heat from cow dung.
Guardian 27th May 2016 read more »