Sustainable Innovations: Climate Change and Green Solutions
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Chapter 1: The Last Tree and Climate Stories
A striking image of the last tree in Rochina, Brazil, serves as a poignant reminder of our environmental responsibilities. Recent narratives surrounding brands and their behavior, particularly in aviation, highlight the need for accountability. British Airways, once a revered national icon, has recently faced criticism for its environmental practices.
A few weeks ago, I discussed sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and the efforts by Willie Walsh to balance profitability with reduced carbon emissions. Since then, openDemocracy has reported that British Airways' parent company, IAG, has lobbied the UK government to avoid mandating the disclosure of emissions data for transatlantic flights.
This situation arose from the UK Department for Transport's (DfT) 2021 consultation on the Jet Zero strategy, which aimed to provide customers with access to environmental impact information when booking flights. The goal was to help passengers make informed choices regarding carbon emissions linked to their travel.
The DfT's interest was sparked by a 2018 study conducted by the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT), which revealed stark disparities in emissions per passenger on transatlantic flights. Notably, British Airways was identified as the least efficient airline, consuming 63% more fuel per passenger kilometer than the top performer, Norwegian. Even when excluding Norwegian from the comparison, BA's performance remained 22% below the industry average due to an aging fleet and a higher proportion of premium seating.
While some US airlines opposed the transparency initiative, others, like easyJet and Ryanair, supported it, possibly hoping for similar measures on their European routes.
Section 1.1: Corporate Accountability in Greenwashing
Recently, the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) prohibited an HSBC advertising campaign that first appeared in London and Bristol, emphasizing that any future initiatives in responsible green investing must disclose their carbon contributions to the climate crisis.
I recently closed my First Direct account because of HSBC's investment practices. Transitioning to a new bank was surprisingly simple, with my new online bank managing the logistics and keeping me informed throughout the process.
HSBC is still grappling with the implications of having to account for all its high-carbon investments, beyond just the 65.3 million tonnes of CO2 emitted by its oil and gas clients annually. They aim to resolve these issues by 2050, but it's time for them to take action now.
Subsection 1.1.1: Solid-State Battery Innovations
To ensure efficient flight, researchers at NASA are exploring solid-state battery technology. These new batteries store substantial energy while remaining lightweight, crucial for aviation applications.
NASA's Solid-state Architecture Batteries for Enhanced Rechargeability and Safety (SABERS) team is experimenting with unconventional materials to tackle the challenge of power discharge. By eliminating the need for liquid electrolytes, these solid-state batteries can be stacked vertically, leading to a weight reduction of 30-40% and a capacity increase of up to 300%.
These batteries have already demonstrated the capacity to power objects at 500 watt-hours per kilogram, surpassing the energy requirements of electric vehicles. Additionally, unlike conventional lithium-ion batteries, solid-state designs are less prone to catching fire during malfunctions.
Chapter 2: Open Source and Agricultural Diversity
The first video, "The Last Tree - Official UK Trailer - On DVD, Blu-ray & Digital Now," captures the essence of environmental storytelling and the urgency of climate action.
The second video, "THE LAST TREE Trailer (2019) | Shola Amoo Coming-Of-Age Drama Movie," portrays the intersection of personal growth and climate awareness.
In the realm of agriculture, the Open Source Seed Initiative (OSSI) is working to promote the free exchange of genetic resources for plant breeding. Founded in 2012 by Jack Kloppenburg and fellow agricultural experts, OSSI aims to foster innovative plant varieties that can withstand the challenges posed by climate change and disease.
In the UK, the Seed Cooperative shares a similar vision, advocating for diversity and democratic access to seeds, steering away from the monopolistic tendencies of major corporations.
Section 2.1: Cultural Shifts: Halloween Traditions
Throughout my life, Halloween has evolved into a significant celebration. While trick-or-treating was a simpler affair in my childhood, it has transformed into a much grander event for my children and their peers.
During my evening walks with Pogo, our elderly dog, I am always amused by the elaborate decorations adorning the houses along my route, including one particularly amusing sight—a nunnery next door to a festively decorated home.