Climate change threatens all of humanity. But for children it is existential. A child born today is likely to live another 70 years or more, a period in which – without significant climate action – Europe and Central Asia will experience more heat, fires, floods, deteriorating water quality and air pollution. 

However, for society and the economy in general, the consequences of climate change go beyond that. Children's bodies and brains are much more vulnerable to the effects of climate change than adults. They also threaten children's physical and mental development in the long term – undermining their ability to reach their full potential as productive, problem-solving members of society. And this damage is already happening: in Europe and Central Asia, more than 100 million children are currently feeling the effects of climate change.

This means that the cost of inaction is huge. It also means that taking action now will reap financial rewards – now and far into the future. One of the most important ways to solve this crisis and ensure children's ability to contribute to society and the economy in both the short and long term is education. (More on unicef.org)

Private planes are a convenient and fast way of transportation, but they also contribute significantly to CO₂ and other greenhouse gas emissions. In the context of growing concerns about the climate crisis (more…)

Formula 1, one of the most prestigious and popular motor sports in the world, is also one of the most demanding on the environment. In addition to adrenaline and technological innovation, high-speed racing also produces significant amounts of carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions, which contribute to global warming. Teams, car companies, as well as the events themselves are very expensive, but also in terms of their environmental impact. In the article, we will look at the carbon footprint of Formula 1, a specific calculation of the emissions of one team per race.

What is carbon footprint and how do we measure it in the context of Formula 1?

Carbon footprint refers to the total amount of CO₂ emissions (and other greenhouse gases) generated by certain activities or events. In the case of Formula 1, the carbon footprint consists of several main areas:

1. transportation – includes transfers of race teams, equipment, logistics to race venues. This part makes up a significant part of the total carbon footprint.
2. Race operation – includes the energy needed during the race, including the F1 cars themselves, their engines and technical equipment.
3. Production and development – emission costs for the development, production and testing of cars and technologies. Team factories are needed to use and use resources to produce carbon fiber parts and other special materials.
4. Accommodation and support – consumption of energy and resources to provide accommodation, meals and other logistics for team personnel during the race.

These individual parts make up the total carbon footprint of one Formula 1 team for one race. If we calculate the emission footprint of individual factors, we can get a picture of the environmental impact of this sport.

Calculation of the carbon footprint of one team per race

In 2019, Formula 1 published its carbon footprint for the season, which reached approx 256,000 tons of CO₂ . The largest share of it (up to 45 %) was made up transport , while the race itself had only about 0.7 % of the total emissions impact, which corresponds to the highest fuel consumption monitoring and the restrictions it meets.

To illustrate, if we imagine that the average F1 team consists of approx 80 members and the amount of specialized equipment, we can consider the following to calculate the carbon footprint for one race:

1. Transport (approx. 45 % from the total footprint)

Transport of the team, vehicles and equipment is complete. One team can transport up to one event 50 tons of equipment aircraft, trucks and shipping. For example, intercontinental air transport produces approx 500 tons of CO₂ for the entire longer distance (e.g. from Europe to Asia or America).

• Average estimate for transport of one team per race: 500 tons of CO₂.

2. Team operation during the race (approx. 7 %)

The operation of racing cars and related technical equipment includes emissions from fuels and electricity. The average fuel consumption for one car per race is approx 100 kg , which translates into a production of approx 300 kg of CO₂ per car (each car emits around 2.31 kg of CO₂ per liter of fuel). They will therefore produce two cars for one team 600 kg of CO₂ .

• Car operation for one event (2 cars): 0.6 tons of CO₂.

3. Production and development (approx. 38 %)

The production and development of car components (especially carbon fiber) are energy intensive. For a season, one can produce up to 10,000 tons of CO₂ only for the production of parts and the preparation of cars. Since the season has approximately 23 races, we can calculate the average carbon footprint per race:

• Production and development for one race: 435 tons of CO₂.

4. Accommodation and support (approx. 10 %)

Team personnel travel and lodge around the world, using hotels, conference facilities and accommodation facilities. For one event, one team can produce for its entire crew 40 tons of CO₂ .

• Accommodation and support for one race: 40 tons of CO₂.

Total carbon footprint calculation for one team per race

In summary, after adding up all the factors, we can estimate that the carbon footprint of one F1 team per race looks like this:

In this way, the average carbon footprint per race for one team is approximately 975.6 tons of CO₂ .

How does Formula 1 try to maintain its environmental impact?

Formula 1 is aware of its environmental burden and has set interesting targets to reduce its carbon footprint. The goal of F1 is to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030. The main initiative includes:

1. Reducing consumption and hybrid engines – New hybrid drive units fuel emissions up to 0 % compared to the classic engine. From 2026, the introduction of other ecological technologies is expected, including the transition to 100 % sustainable fuel .
2. Reduction of emissions from transport – Formula 1 and thus work on optimizing logistics and the use of alternative means of transport, such as trains or ships, and also on the use of fuels with a lower carbon content. When transporting between individual events, possibilities are also being sought to minimize the number of flights.
3. Carbon neutrality and ecological projects – Teams invest in carbon offset projects such as reforestation and carbon sequestration projects. Companies are also trying to be innovative, such as investing in technologies for capturing carbon directly from the air.
4. Recycling and material efficiency – Formula 1 and the individual teams try to minimize the amount of waste by recycling parts and reusing materials. They are also introducing new manufacturing processes that make it possible to use less carbon fiber and other demanding materials.
5. Electrification and clean energy sources – Formula 1 is exploring the possibility of electrifying some parts of its process, although the complete electrification of vehicles in F1 is not yet possible in terms of performance. Supporting the transition of factories to renewable energy sources is another goal that contributes to reducing overall emissions.

Conclusion

Formula 1, as a high-performance sport, has a significant impact on the environment, but at the same time it acts as a technological laboratory for advanced technologies in motoring. Although its carbon footprint is still high, the organization is taking measures to reduce it with the goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2030. However, it remains to implement these goals and to overcome the environmental obstacles that modern motorsport brings. (Co2AI)

The UN Conference on Biodiversity COP16, held in 2024 in Cali, Colombia, brought important decisions and commitments for the protection of global biodiversity. At this conference, leaders and experts from more than 190 countries met with the aim of a new strategy for dealing with biodiversity, which is becoming more and more relevant. The talks in Cali were held under the theme "Restoring nature for the future", which highlighted the need for rapid action to protect nature and ecosystems threatened by human activity, climate change and deforestation. In this article, we take a closer look at the key agreements and their significance for the future of biodiversity.

The importance of COP16 for biodiversity

Biodiversity is the cornerstone of life on Earth – it supports ecosystems that provide people with food, clean water, pollination, and helps regulate the climate. Yet biodiversity is under threat more than ever. The rapid furniture of species, which is focused on the area of forestry, agricultural expansion, extraordinary, and pollution, has disastrous effects on the world. The COP16 conference therefore set potential targets that are intended to halt and reverse biodiversity losses by 2050.

Key outcomes and agreements from COP16

The Cali conference produced several fundamental commitments that have a major impact on the protection of biodiversity at the global level:

1. Protection of 30 % of the world's land and oceans by 2030

One of the main objectives of COP16 is to protect 30 % of the world's land and oceans by 2030 . This initiative, known as "30×30", aims to create a network of protected areas that provided a safe haven for plants, animals and ecosystems. The move is expected to help improve biodiversity and support the recovery of ecosystems that are key to combating climate change. States have pledged to increase investment in the protection of these areas and to protect ecological and scientific monitoring.

2. Reduction of pollution by plastics and toxic substances

The impact of plastics and toxic substances on ecosystems is considerable, especially in aquatic environments. At COP16, countries agreed on a reduction pollution with plastics and toxic substances on a global level. The agreement includes measures to limit single-use plastics and introduce ecological alternatives. Stricter regulation is also expected of chemicals used in industry and agriculture, which often end up in water and soil, damaging local ecosystems and endangering animal and human health.

3. Program for the restoration of degraded ecosystems

One of the important results of the conference is the regular program on restoration of degraded ecosystems . It is estimated that there are about 20 % and many water bodies are seriously damaged by human activities. This program aims to restore these areas through reforestation, wetland protection and improved soil health. Countries have pledged to invest in projects that support sustainable land and water management and contribute to the restoration of natural habitats for many species.

4. Sustainable agriculture and conservation of native species

Intensive agriculture is one of the main causes of biodiversity loss, which is why COP16 emphasized support of sustainable agriculture . They agreed to support techniques that minimize chemical inputs, improve soil health and use pesticides. this commitment also includes the protection of native and local species that are threatened by the intensive cultivation of commercial crops.

5. Securing the rights of indigenous and local communities

Indigenous communities and local people are key custodians of biodiversity, living close to many important ecosystems and their traditional knowledge of nature is invaluable. At COP16, a commitment was made to secure their rights and guarantee that their voice is valid in nature conservation. This commitment also includes guarantees that local communities will have access to the lands that belong to them and will have the opportunity to participate in the protection of natural resources.

Challenges and the need for cooperation

Despite the possible goals from COP16, the implementation of these measures will not be without challenges. Achieving commitments such as protecting 30 % planets or halting ecosystem degradation requires enormous efforts not only from governments, but also from the private sector, non-profit organizations and society as a whole. Funding is a critical element, especially for the development of countries that often have the most valuable natural resources, but at the same time lack the means to protect them.

Educating the public has the same no value. Awareness of the importance of biodiversity is necessary for people to support an initiative that helps protect nature and remains the impact of human activity on the environment.

Conclusion

The COP16 conference in Cali produced major results and decisions that can help reverse the biodiversity crisis. However, the agreed steps and commitments are only the first step on the long road to a sustainable future. If these plans can be implemented, they can lead to the restoration of ecosystems, the protection of species and the improvement of the quality of life for current and future generations. COP16 sent a clear signal that the world is ready to protect the planet and biodiversity, and showed the way how we can contribute to its preservation. Spring

In 2024, the average temperature on Earth is expected to exceed the historical limit of global warming by 1.5 °C above pre-industrial levels. This symbolic milestone is justified by serious concerns, because due to the consequence of the emergence of serious problems, it is necessary to remember that society too. The topic of global warming is as relevant today as ever, and crossing the 1.5°C limit set by scientists and climatologists reminds us of the urgency of the fight against climate change. In this article, we look at why 2024 is so important, what are the causes and consequences of rising global temperatures, and what can be done to mitigate this crisis.

Why is the 1.5°C limit so important?

International climate agreements, in particular the Paris Agreement of 2015, have committed to keeping global warming below 2°C, setting as a target 1.5 °C . This goal was set on the basis of extensive scientific studies, which showed that an increase in temperature of more than 1.5 °C meant a significant worsening of extreme climatic phenomena, such as heat, droughts, floods or forest fires. Many ecosystems, such as coral reefs, would not be able to adapt to the rapid changes and the risk of their extinction would be high. Climatologists therefore warn that crossing this limit will bring not only ecological, but also economic and social consequences that will be felt by millions of people around the world.

Year 2024: Causes of record warming

This exceptionally high rise in temperature is due to several factors:

• El Niño phenomenon : This climatic phenomenon, which occurs in the Pacific Ocean, causes an increase in the temperature of the oceans and consequently the atmosphere. Combined with increasing greenhouse gas emissions, this phenomenon contributes significantly to the overall increase in global temperature.
• Growing emissions : World emissions of CO₂ and other greenhouse gases still increasing, mainly due to the burning of fossil fuels, deforestation and intensive agricultural production. These gases trap heat in the atmosphere, leading to a gradual increase in temperature.
• Urbanization and industrial development : Extensive industrial development in developing countries, urbanization and infrastructure construction further increase the amount of emissions and contribute to overall warming.

Consequences of global warming above 1.5 °C

Exceeding the 1.5°C limit has serious consequences on many levels:

• Worsening of extreme climatic phenomena : The heat will be even more intense, so longer and most common, and extraordinary new floods affecting the area, which are extensive damage to infrastructure and people's lives.
• Loss of biodiversity : For many species, especially those that are sensitive to temperature changes, crossing the 1.5°C limit means a serious threat. Animals and plants will be forced to migrate or adapt to new needs, but many of them cannot.
• Threat to food safety : Changes in weather and climate extremes will worsen harvests in agriculturally active regions. This can lead to food crises, increase food prices and worsen living conditions for the poorest.
• The rise of climate migrants : Several areas will be uninhabitable due to extreme weather and degraded living conditions, causing millions of people to migrate in search of better conditions.

What can we do to mitigate climate change?

Although 2024 will bring tough news on the state of the climate, there are various steps we can take to mitigate this crisis:

1. Reduction of greenhouse gas emissions : Promoting renewable energy sources such as solar and wind is key. Efforts to limit fossil fuels and use energy more efficiently can help slow global warming.
2. Afforestation and biodiversity protection : Reforestation and ecosystem protection contribute to achieving CO₂ in the atmosphere. Nature plays an important role in environmental regulation, and afforestation programs have not only ecological but also social benefits.
3. Support of sustainable agriculture : Limiting the excessive use of land and water, introducing agricultural technology and reducing emissions from agricultural production are important steps.
4. Awareness raising and education : In order for society to act, it is necessary to raise awareness about climate change and its consequences. Education in this area is an investment in the future that can help shape the next generation that will be able to face this challenge.
5. International cooperation : The climate crisis knows no borders and the fight against it requires cooperation at the global level. Solutions must include coordinated efforts, joint investment and support for less developed countries.

Conclusion

The year 2024 is an important year for our planet, which reminds us of the seriousness of the climate situation. Exceeding the limit of 1.5°C of global warming requires immediate and immediate measures to protect our environment. At this time, it is important to find forces and solutions that will not only mitigate climate change, but also protect our health, biodiversity and the future of future generations. Spring

Chronic respiratory diseases are one of the leading causes of death in Europe and it is estimated that more than a third of these deaths are caused by preventable environmental factors. Key interventions include reducing pollution, energy poverty and exposure to risk at work, according to a European Environment Agency (EEA) report published today. (More on eea.europa.eu)

MIP4Adapt has launched a new DIY Stakeholder and Citizen Engagement Manual to support local authorities in increasing citizen and stakeholder engagement in climate change adaptation efforts. The handbook provides a practical guide to engaging citizens and stakeholders in every phase of climate change adaptation planning, from land preparation for adaptation to monitoring and evaluation.

By actively involving communities, regional and local authorities can develop strategies that better reflect local needs and interests. Citizen participation also fosters a sense of responsibility and commitment, making adaptation efforts more sustainable in the long term. When stakeholders engage, they contribute valuable knowledge and resources, creating shared ownership and broad support for climate action. (More on climate-adapt.eea.europa.eu)

Download the guide today

A UN biodiversity meeting this month failed to reach an agreement on funding. The world is far from ready for the "calamity" caused by climate change and must urgently prepare for even worse in the future, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said on Thursday.

Global efforts to adapt to climate change—from building defensive sea walls to growing drought-resistant crops—have not kept pace as global warming accelerates the frequency and intensity of disasters. (Agence France-Presse, more at ndtv.com)

Reducing meat consumption is currently coming to the fore as an important strategy in the fight against climate change. The production of meat, especially beef, is associated with significant emissions of greenhouse gases, including carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄) and nitrous oxide (N₂O). These gases contribute significantly to the warming of the planet. Reducing meat consumption could therefore represent a fundamental change with global implications for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

1. Climate footprint of meat: Why is meat production so harmful to the climate?

Meat production is very resource-intensive and causes high greenhouse gas emissions. The main reasons are:

– Cattle feeding and breeding: Cows and other livestock produce large amounts of methane, which is produced during digestion. This gas has a much higher potential for trapping heat in the atmosphere than CO₂ (it is about 28 times more efficient). In addition, the production of livestock feed requires huge areas of land, leading to deforestation and the subsequent release of carbon from the soil into the atmosphere.

– Water and energy consumption: Meat production uses more water and energy compared to plant-based foods. It takes about 15,000 liters of water to produce one kilogram of beef, while it takes about 1,500 liters to produce one kilogram of wheat.

– Deforestation: Many areas, including the Amazon rainforest, are being deforested to raise livestock and grow feed, causing the loss of natural carbon stores that would otherwise absorb CO₂ and reduce its concentration in the atmosphere.

2. How could changing eating habits reduce CO₂ emissions?

Reducing meat consumption has the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to billions of tons per year. Research shows that if most people switched to a diet with less animal products or an entirely plant-based diet, global emissions would be significantly reduced.

– Switching to a plant-based diet: Research published in the journal *Nature* estimated that a global shift to a diet low in animal products could reduce greenhouse gas emissions by around 8 billion tonnes per year.

– Beef reduction: Beef has the biggest impact on greenhouse gas emissions, so reducing it or replacing it with other types of protein could yield huge savings. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), reducing beef consumption in favor of plant-based alternatives would reduce the carbon footprint of the food sector by more than 50 %.

 3. Ecological benefits of reducing meat consumption

The climate benefits of limiting meat consumption are enormous, but a change in diet would also have other ecological benefits:

– Biodiversity protection: Deforestation for livestock and fodder farming threatens many species of plants and animals. Limiting meat production could protect critical ecosystems like the Amazon rainforest and save thousands of endangered species.

– Saving water: Producing meat requires a huge amount of water, while growing crops for human consumption is much more economical. Thus, limiting meat consumption would help conserve water resources, which is especially important in drought-affected areas.

– Improvement of soil quality: Intensive animal breeding and fodder cultivation leads to soil degradation and loss of its quality. A reduction in dependence on animal products would allow some native ecosystems to return and improve the soil's ability to absorb carbon.

4. Social and economic aspects of changes in meat consumption

A change in eating habits can also have a significant impact on society and the economy.

– Health benefits: Reduced consumption of meat, especially red and processed meat, has beneficial effects on health. A diet high in plant protein is associated with a lower risk of heart disease, diabetes and some types of cancer. Improving public health could reduce health care costs.

– A more even distribution of resources: Meat production is demanding on land, water and energy, while these resources could be used more efficiently to grow crops for direct food use. This transition could help alleviate world hunger by allowing more resources to be used directly to feed people.

– New job opportunities in the plant alternatives sector: The demand for alternatives to meat, such as plant proteins or cultured meat, brings opportunities for the development of new technologies and businesses. The plant industry is growing at a rapid pace, creating employment opportunities and increasing the value of the sustainable sector.

5. How to support the transition to a diet with a lower proportion of meat?

Because dietary habits are deeply rooted in culture and tradition, transitioning to fewer animal products requires a systematic approach:

– Education and awareness raising: The key is to inform the public about the ecological and health benefits of limited meat consumption. Public campaigns, school programs and information on food labels can help raise awareness.

– Support for plant-based alternatives: Supporting the development and availability of plant-based alternatives to meat can help consumers embrace change. State subsidies for sustainable foods or tax reductions for plant-based alternatives could increase their availability and attractiveness to consumers.

– Political measures and climate taxes: The introduction of taxes on products with a high carbon footprint, including meat, could discourage their excessive consumption. However, these measures should be accompanied by protection for low-income groups so that they do not lead to social inequalities.

Conclusion

Reducing meat consumption is an effective and affordable way for individuals and companies to contribute to the fight against climate change. Dietary change has the potential to reduce emissions by billions of tons of CO₂ per year, which would have a major impact on climate stabilization. Moreover, it would bring many other ecological, social and health benefits. For individuals, one of the simplest and most effective measures to reduce their carbon footprint may be to reduce meat consumption and include more plant-based foods in their daily diet. In addition, such a transition supports biodiversity conservation, water and soil conservation and will contribute to a more sustainable food system.

The future of sustainable eating

If we want to achieve a sustainable future, it is essential to integrate the reduction of meat consumption into a wider climate policy. It is already clear that the increase in plant-based alternatives to meat on the market shows that consumers are aware of the importance of their dietary choices for the environment. Technological innovations such as cultured meat and new forms of plant protein have the potential to replace traditional meat and reduce the carbon footprint of the food sector.

The next step is to create favorable conditions for this transition through regulatory frameworks, support for agricultural technologies that reduce emissions, and public education. It is these measures that can enable us to move towards more sustainable eating habits in the future and contribute to a more stable climate system. Spring

A tipping point (English *tipping point*) is a concept that describes a critical boundary, after reaching which the climate system or ecological process will go into a new, irreversible state. This point represents (more…)

Northern permafrost regions, areas of permanently frozen ground, are undergoing rapid changes due to global warming. These changes pose a potential risk to the climate, (more…)

When we look around us, it is not difficult to see the countless ways in which nature contributes to our existence. However, the value of nature goes far beyond what it seems at first glance - it offers solutions with advantages that are often overlooked.

This is the extraordinary revelation of a group of researchers from the University of Oxford. Experts researched the economic implications of natural solutions (NbS) and what they discovered is like finding a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow. (Sanjana Gajbhiye, more at earth.com)

ESG is a set of criteria used to assess the sustainability and ethical impact of investments and business activities. (more…)

The term "greenwashing" has gained importance in recent years, as more and more companies try to present their products and services as environmentally responsible. However, in many cases behind this green facade hides a reality that is much less flattering. Greenwashing is a deceptive practice designed to give consumers the impression that a product or service is greener than it actually is.

The resources provide valuable insight into this issue and point to various aspects of greenwashing regulation in the EU.

Why is greenwashing a problem?

Greenwashing undermines consumers' trust in environmental claims and makes it difficult for them to make informed decisions. Ultimately, this hinders real progress in sustainability.

• Misleading claims: Companies may use misleading claims, unsubstantiated evidence, vague wording, or emphasize one environmental aspect while ignoring other, negative impacts.
• Absence of standards: The absence of clear standards and definitions for environmental claims allows companies to manipulate information and avoid accountability.
• Green Marketing: Firms may invest more in marketing their environmental activities than in actual changes in their products and processes.

How does the EU fight against greenwashing?

The EU adopts legislative measures to regulate greenwashing and strengthen transparency in the field of sustainability. The sources mention several initiatives:

• EU Taxonomy: This classification defines which economic activities are considered environmentally sustainable, providing investors with a clear framework for evaluating investments.
• Regulation on Disclosure of Information on Sustainability in the Financial Services Sector (SFDR): It requires financial institutions to disclose how they consider sustainability risks and opportunities in their investments and advice.
• Unfair Commercial Practices Directive (UCPD): It prohibits deceptive and misleading practices, including greenwashing, and protects consumers from unfair business practices.
• Insurance Distribution Directive (IDD): It establishes rules for the transparency and professional competence of insurance and reinsurance intermediaries, which indirectly contributes to the fight against greenwashing in this area.
• Specific information disclosure requirements: EU legislation also defines specific requirements for publishing information on environmental aspects in various sectors, such as energy, transport, construction and agriculture.

What is the impact of these measures?

These EU legislative initiatives have the potential to reduce the extent of greenwashing and strengthen the credibility of environmental claims. They set clearer rules, definitions and disclosure requirements, making it harder for companies to manipulate information and avoid liability.

• Increased transparency: The new rules motivate companies to more transparently publish information about their environmental activities and impacts.
• Clearer definitions: The EU taxonomy and other initiatives provide clearer definitions for terms such as 'sustainable' and 'green', limiting the scope for interpretation and manipulation.
• Strengthening enforcement: The EU is strengthening mechanisms to monitor and enforce compliance, making companies more accountable.

The future of the fight against greenwashing

Although the EU is taking steps to regulate greenwashing, combating this issue is a long-term process.

• The evolution of greenwashing: Businesses are constantly looking for new and more sophisticated ways to present their products and services as green.
• The need for harmonization: There is a need to harmonize standards and definitions at a global level to prevent "greenwashing tourism".
• Consumer involvement: Consumers play a key role in the fight against greenwashing. Informed and critical consumers can pressure companies to act responsibly and transparently.

In conclusion, greenwashing is a serious problem that undermines consumer confidence and hinders real progress in sustainability. The EU adopts legislative measures to regulate greenwashing and strengthen transparency, but the fight against this issue requires long-term efforts on the part of regulators, companies and consumers. Spring