Planting the Seeds for a Greener 2024

As we usher in the new year, there is a palpable sense of optimism in the realm of green energy, sustainability, and technology. Obstacles continue to emerge in many spheres of these sectors. Yet, despite the challenges faced by those who work in renewable energy and clean technology, there are encouraging signs of progress. The notable investments in clean energy alone, which increased by 40% since 2020, indicate a heightened awareness of our impact on the environment and a dedication to transitioning towards a more sustainable energy landscape.

Setbacks and Challenges 

The journey toward sustainability has been bumpy, to say the least, and professionals have unfortunately encountered countless complications along the way. Clean technologies, for example, have consistently faced external pushbacks, pressures, and supply chain issues. These obstacles have proven particularly damaging to the wind sector, which has had to tackle supply bottlenecks and a lack of diversification in the rare earths supply market, among other predicaments. 

Additionally, despite previous policy agreements aimed at mitigating rising greenhouse gas emissions, the global average surface temperature has already surpassed pre-industrial levels by approximately 1.2 °C, resulting in unusual heatwaves and extreme weather events. 

To complicate things further, these greenhouse gas emissions have yet to peak. This means they will continue to rise for the next couple of years instead of commencing their descent to less damaging quantities. Consequently, this contributes to the aggravation of the ongoing climate challenges we are experiencing today. 

As far as our health is concerned, the lack of advancement in clean energy practices has continued to result in arduous physiological consequences. Perhaps most concerning is the fact that the energy sector remains a primary contributor to air pollution, affecting over 90% of the world's population and causing more than 6 million premature deaths annually. Despite efforts to improve access to clean electricity, positive trends have slowed or reversed in some countries, underscoring the need for sustained and intensified global efforts.

Steps Forward 

While setbacks can be discouraging, it is important to keep in mind that they are a part of the process. Each year we continue to fight for clean energy is a year we get closer to achieving our sustainability goals.  Looking ahead, the path to a more sustainable future holds promising developments. For instance, solar power is projected to drive the increase in electricity generation, with the addition of 36 gigawatts (GW) and 43 GW of new solar capacity in 2024 and 2025. This surge is expected to elevate the solar share of total generation to 6% in 2024 and 7% in 2025, up from 4% in 2023. These positive trends, combined with the stabilization of natural gas in electricity generation, underscore a changing energy landscape that prioritizes renewable sources, providing a glimpse into a future that allows for increased sustainability and environmental awareness.

As you can see, there is much to celebrate and at the same time still much left to accomplish. As we embark on a new year filled with promise for the greener energy sector, individuals play a pivotal role in fostering a cleaner environment. Implementing sustainable habits in schools, homes, and businesses can contribute significantly to this collective effort. Simple steps, such as reducing energy consumption by turning off lights and appliances when not in use, embracing energy-efficient technologies, and practicing responsible waste management, can make a tangible impact. Cultivating green habits like recycling, reducing single-use plastics, and opting for eco-friendly products can further reduce the environmental footprint. 

Educating oneself and others about the importance of conservation and adopting green practices can create a ripple effect, fostering a culture of environmental responsibility. By making conscious choices in daily life, anyone can have the power to actively contribute to building a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future for generations to come.

At Smart Energy Education, we aim to educate our readers about the importance of clean energy and the amazing opportunities within the energy sector. If you are interested in learning more about energy and energy careers visit our website here. If you would like to access fun, educational activities for students to learn about energy and the world's natural resources, visit Watt Watchers of Texas!