Many homeowners have been racing to deploy rooftop solar systems before President-elect Donald Trump takes office due to concerns about potential changes in tax credit and tariff policy that could drive up costs. Installers are also preparing for changes, with companies like Exact Solar stockpiling panels to lock in current prices.
Virginia Tech chemist Guoliang "Greg" Liu has developed a method to recycle polyethylene and polypropylene plastics into an oil that can be used as a soap ingredient. This process involves breaking down plastic molecules using heat and is similar to advanced recycling but produces less environmental pollution. Liu's team is looking to work with investors and companies in the detergent industry to explore the practicalities and profitability of this innovation.
Battery technology has experienced rapid growth since 2021 and grid-scale installations are becoming more common. In this episode of The Indicator podcast, the team dives into three grid-scale battery success stories, with a focus on how the technology is increasing grid reliability as more renewables come online.
Federal policies have helped lead to a surge in US electric vehicle manufacturing, with $197.6 billion invested in the last decade, roughly two-thirds of which came after the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022. The Environmental Defense Fund and WSP USA report highlights that these investments have resulted in 57 operational facilities and over 50,000 jobs, with another 100 projects under construction.
Microplastics are pervasive, found in water, food, and even breast milk, posing a significant threat to ecosystems and human health. Artūras Torkelis from Kaunas University of Technology emphasizes the importance of effective waste management to mitigate these risks. The improper handling of plastic waste contributes to microplastic formation, highlighting the need for a comprehensive approach to waste management that considers economic, environmental and legal aspects.
With urban populations facing potential water shortages, cities are focusing on tech solutions to manage scarcity. This includes predictive measures for water availability, advanced recycling techniques and improved distribution and desalination methods. Another trend to watch: Digital citizenship is becoming more prominent as cities implement new solutions for identity verification and civic engagement.
Heatwaves are disrupting municipal infrastructure and public schooling in Barcelona, Spain, as climate change intensifies. The city is responding by implementing a program funded by tourist tax revenue to install air conditioning and green energy solutions in schools, aiming to alleviate the impact of extreme heat on students' learning conditions.
The Biden administration has transformed US climate and energy policy with the Inflation Reduction Act, federal infrastructure initiatives and other actions, but it remains to be seen which aspects of the president's agenda will have a lasting impact. During this episode of the Political Climate podcast, the team discusses Biden's climate wins and losses, with a focus on last-minute actions that may be vulnerable under the incoming Trump administration.
