EU avoids enforcing fines despite numerous environmental violations by member states
The European Commission has failed to impose penalties on countries for more than 40 court-ruled breaches of EU law, most concerning environmental protections, leaving violations unresolved for decades.
Pascal Hansens, Harald Schumann and Maxence Pegné Investigate Europe.
In short:
- More than 40 cases involving EU law breaches, mainly on climate and biodiversity, remain unresolved due to the European Commission’s inaction.
- Ireland’s case of failing to protect endangered birds like the hen harrier has persisted for over 17 years, despite a European Court of Justice ruling.
- Some nations, including Italy and Greece, have paid fines for breaches but still fail to address underlying issues.
Key quote:
“The Commission should ensure all adopted EU laws are fully enforced in all member states, but it is not doing so.”
— Daniel Freund, Green MEP
Why this matters:
Failure to enforce EU environmental laws threatens biodiversity and increases health costs, as seen in cases like air pollution, which causes thousands of deaths annually. Without penalties, member states are less likely to comply with crucial environmental protections.
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Labour urged to halt £1bn carbon capture investment over risks to climate goals
Leading climate scientists are asking Labour to pause its £1bn plan to invest in carbon capture and blue hydrogen, warning that the technology is unproven and could lock the UK into fossil fuel dependency.
In short:
- Scientists say carbon capture and blue hydrogen could lead to high methane emissions and hinder the UK's net zero targets.
- They argue the investment would lock the UK into long-term fossil fuel use and increase energy costs.
- Labour's plan faces criticism for backing untested technologies rather than proven renewable solutions like home insulation and public transport.
Key quote:
"When it comes to carbon capture and storage, which has a track record of repeated failure, or considering the risks of methane emissions from importing gas to make hydrogen, we can’t see this as a good use of big public subsidies."
— Claire James, Campaign against Climate Change
Why this matters:
If the UK invests heavily in unproven carbon capture technologies, some scientists say it risks derailing its net zero goals, increasing methane emissions and prolonging dependence on fossil fuels rather than focusing on renewable energy solutions.
Learn more: Climate activists pan carbon capture plans
Young voters question Kamala Harris' climate stance as election nears
The initial enthusiasm for Kamala Harris among young climate voters is fading as many now call for more aggressive climate policies, particularly on fracking and fossil fuels.
In short:
- Kamala Harris’ candidacy initially boosted youth voter enthusiasm, but her support of oil and gas policies has disappointed some.
- Climate groups like the Sunrise Movement are pushing Harris to take stronger stances on fracking and fossil fuels.
- Voter registration surged after Harris entered the race, but activists worry youth turnout could falter without bolder climate action.
Key quote:
"We make our demands based not on what is convenient or easy but what is absolutely necessary."
— Michael Greenberg, founder of Climate Defiance
Why this matters:
Youth voter turnout could significantly influence the 2024 election. Harris needs strong climate commitments to mobilize young voters, who see climate action as a top priority. Without this, some may abstain or support third-party candidates.
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Activists interrupt New York Times climate event with protest against oil CEO
A group of activists disrupted an interview with Occidental Petroleum's CEO at a New York Times event, accusing her of "ecocide" and demanding an end to fossil fuels.
Keerti Gopal and Jake Bolster report for Inside Climate News.
In short:
- Climate Defiance activists protested during an interview with Occidental Petroleum’s CEO, accusing the company of harming the environment.
- The protest halted the event briefly; 10 demonstrators were arrested by the NYPD.
- The activists argued that fossil fuel executives shouldn’t be platformed at climate events.
Key quote:
“Climate criminals should not be allowed in polite society. It is outrageous that the New York Times is hosting a fossil fuel CEO at a supposed climate event.”
— Michael Greenberg, Climate Defiance
Why this matters:
Activists are intensifying their actions against fossil fuel companies to raise awareness about greenwashing and the urgent need to transition away from oil and gas. These disruptions signal growing frustration over the perceived lack of meaningful climate action.
Related: Occidental Petroleum's net-zero claims met with skepticism
Nigeria struggles to cool itself as temperatures rise and electricity remains scarce
As Nigeria faces increasing temperatures due to climate change, millions lack access to basic cooling, creating health risks and deepening the country’s energy crisis.
In short:
- Temperatures in Lagos regularly exceed 95°F, but many Nigerians can't afford air-conditioning or face frequent blackouts.
- Nigeria's outdated, inefficient cooling technologies rely heavily on fossil fuels, worsening climate impacts while straining the power grid.
- Solar-powered solutions, like cold storage for farmers, offer some hope but wider energy reforms are needed to meet rising demand.
Key quote:
“Air-conditioners are a necessity — no longer a luxury.”
— Okon Ekpenyong, former director, Energy Commission of Nigeria
Why this matters:
With Nigeria’s population projected to surge, the country’s lack of reliable cooling could lead to widespread health crises. Access to energy-efficient, sustainable cooling solutions is critical to adapting to climate change while avoiding further environmental harm.
For more: Cattle block Nigerian capital’s roads as herders struggle to find grazing land
A massive solar project in Utah will supply affordable energy and boost local economy
A new solar and storage facility in Emery County, Utah, will generate enough electricity to power 88,000 homes while helping stabilize energy prices.
In short:
- The $1.1 billion Green River Energy Center will produce 400 megawatts of solar power and store energy for peak demand periods.
- The project is expected to create 500 jobs during construction and provide $55 million in local tax revenue over 20 years.
- Solar power could help mitigate Utah's rising energy costs, offering a low-cost, renewable alternative to fuel-based power.
Key quote:
“The beauty of solar is that once it’s installed, you’re not subject to fuel volatility, as we are with other sources of energy.”
— Theresa Foxley, chief of staff at rPlus Energies
Why this matters:
As energy prices rise due to fossil fuel volatility, large solar projects like this offer a sustainable solution. They not only provide affordable energy but also support local economies and grid stability.
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Homes on North Carolina’s coast continue collapsing as erosion worsens
A decade-long battle with coastal erosion and rising sea levels has caused ten homes to fall into the Atlantic in Rodanthe, North Carolina, since 2020, with three collapsing in just the last week.
In short:
- Beach erosion along the Outer Banks barrier islands has accelerated, with some areas losing up to 15 feet of shoreline annually.
- Many collapsed homes were compliant with older regulations, but erosion and stronger storms have made them vulnerable.
- Solutions like beach renourishment or property buyouts are expensive, leaving small communities financially strained.
Key quote:
“This is a national issue ... the situation is only going to become worse.”
— Braxton Davis, executive director of the North Carolina Coastal Federation
Why this matters:
As climate change drives sea levels higher, coastal erosion threatens not only homes but also vital ecosystems. Without action, more communities will face devastating impacts, and the financial burden on local governments will intensify.
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