This morning I'm going to try something new. Email subscribers: After today's updates picked Just for You, but before the full table of contents, you'll find a new section titled Imagine the Combinations.

In this section, we've picked two ways that your recommended stories could intersect with each other: a practical possibility and an awe-inspiring possibility.

I like to make lists with pen and paper of 6 different ways that 3 things I'm thinking about could impact each other, but AI makes it easy to perform 5X as many analyses (30), instantly, for every individual subscribed to this email. And then to pick the 7% of ideas it thinks meet our criteria for being the best. I'd love to know how this new section treats you.

Email subscribers will find three updates our system selected just for you, from a collection of over 1,000 green tech and sustainability organizations. 

And now...

Today's Updates

Email subscribers get three of these picked just for you, based on your interests.

Today's Updates

Table of Contents

• Agriculture (14 stories) - CGIAR's $1.4M Norway-backed food initiatives at COP28, Land van Ons' Dutch farmland acquisitions, Hives for Heroes' veteran beekeeping program, and Madam Jeanet's eco-shop launch highlight sustainable agriculture developments

• Carbon (5 stories) - Copernicus data shows 1.5°C breach as WattCarbon projects $10T infrastructure needs; Drax launches Elimini carbon removal venture; Azerbaijan's SOCAR targets methane cuts ahead of COP29

• Circular (1 story) - Bagasse-based plates offer chemical-free, USDA-certified compostable dining solution with 180-day decomposition

• Ecosystems (6 stories) - African elephants show 90% decline except in southern reserves; Brazil's Serra das Araras loses 97% to fires; Gran Chaco jaguar killed; Venezuela's forest network collapses; Croatia's Velebit rewilding gains support; ancient Colorado rocks reveal global ice age

• Efficiency (1 story) - Energy Conservatory CEO highlights critical 400 CFM/ton airflow and duct assessment standards for optimal heat pump performance and efficiency

• Finance (3 stories) - NCQG climate finance goal at COP29 to exceed $100B annually; World Bank and IMF step in as LiveEO debuts palm oil monitoring tools at RT2024

• Indigenous (2 stories) - Indigenous leaders seek direct NCQG and CFAF funding access as Afro-descendants gain Article 8(j) inclusion, with $121.5M Quilombo program launch

• Industry (2 stories) - Floreon showcases PLA bioplastics at COP29 Azerbaijan while Japan's FAST fusion project and Kyoto Fusioneering target 2030s power generation

• Policy (22 stories) - UN biodiversity summit sees low 22% national plan submission rate while establishing Cali Fund and indigenous advisory body; COP29 tackles $100B+ climate funding and military emissions; 82 nations back gender equity in agriculture transition; $700M Loss & Damage Fund prioritizes agricultural aid

• Renewables (1 story) - YouSolar's PowerBloc nanogrid system features 90% US-made components amid forecasts of $4.5T global power market by 2034

• Transport (3 stories) - DFDS adopts solar-powered refrigeration units; SWTCH Energy partners with California schools for EV charging; solid-state battery breakthroughs from LG and Samsung promise 1000km EV range

Agriculture

CGIAR's $1.4M Norway-backed food initiatives at COP28, Land van Ons' Dutch farmland acquisitions, Hives for Heroes' veteran beekeeping program, and Madam Jeanet's eco-shop launch highlight sustainable agriculture developments

• 30 november 2024: feestelijke opening tuinwinkel Madam Jeanet (Land van Ons) - Dutch eco-shop 'Madam Jeanet' launches in Noordeloos with mayoral ceremony and local tastings on November 30. Extended details: The shop will feature biological, ecological and sustainable products from local farmers and Madam Jeanet's own production, offering tastings and recipe booklets during opening hours 10:00-14:00. Visitors can meet producers to learn about products' origins, while the Land van Ons plot team will be present to discuss volunteer opportunities and monthly work days.

• Ondersteunende boer (m/v) gezocht voor Herenboeren bij Enschede (Herenboeren.nl) - Part-time farmer sought for 16-hour weekly role at Dutch cooperative farm serving up to 270 households near Enschede. Extended details: The position requires agricultural education and experience working with volunteers at a mixed farm that combines vegetable growing, fruit cultivation, and livestock farming on 20 hectares. The farm is owned by 200-270 member households who are direct consumers of the produce, operating under nature-driven principles with organic standards as the minimum requirement.

• Swalmen in opstartfase (Land van Ons) - Dutch cooperative Land van Ons purchases 11-hectare farmland near Swalmen to transform conventional agriculture into sustainable farming practices. Extended details: Land van Baexen cooperative will lease 2.5 hectares to establish community gardening project for sustainable food production, while negotiations continue with local farmers for remaining 8.5 hectares. Property borders Teutebeek and Swalm waterways, offering opportunities for ecological restoration and biodiversity enhancement through planned landscape improvements and natural buffer zones.

• How sustainable beekeeping nurtures hives & humans (Pasa Sustainable Agriculture) - Military veteran Mark Fujita manages 80+ beehives in Pennsylvania while helping fellow veterans heal through "Hives for Heroes" mentorship program. Extended details: Fujita's Funny Farm Apiaries produces over 200 pounds of honey per hive and offers 30+ flavored honey varieties, while focusing on sustainable winter survival rates through aggressive mite treatment and proper feeding practices. The farm provides hands-on mentorship to veterans, leveraging beekeeping's calming effects and the therapeutic frequency of bee humming to help address PTSD and anxiety in military veterans.

• CGIAR Driving Food Systems Transformation: A Look at ACF and TCC (CGIAR) - CGIAR spearheads two major food initiatives at COP28, with Norway providing $1.4M to support sustainable agriculture programs across Brazil, Cambodia, Sierra Leone and Rwanda. Extended details: ACF, led by Brazil, Cambodia, Norway, Sierra Leone and Rwanda, implements 10 priority actions for sustainable food systems with $1.4M Norwegian funding and CGIAR secretariat support. TCC aligns technical assistance across organizations to help countries implement COP28's UAE Declaration on Sustainable Agriculture, focusing on knowledge sharing and innovative solutions.

• Gender – COP29 Negotiation Updates (CGIAR) - Kenya unveils climate plan for COP29 that prioritizes women's roles across farming, water and energy sectors, targeting local-level implementation of gender-focused policies. Extended details: The proposal advocates for gender-responsive budgeting and technical support to empower women in agricultural climate resilience efforts critical for food security. Key recommendations include appointing gender focal points, mapping climate vulnerabilities, and establishing dedicated funding for gender-inclusive approaches to climate adaptation.

• Agriculture – COP29 Negotiation Updates (CGIAR) - Global climate negotiators agree on agricultural action roadmap with online portal and two major workshops scheduled through 2026. Extended details: The roadmap includes creation of an online portal for sharing agricultural climate action initiatives, with annual synthesis reports starting 2025 and mandatory submissions from international organizations by December 31st each year. Two workshops will address systemic approaches to climate action in agriculture (June 2025) and means of implementation for climate action in food security (June 2026), building on previous Koronivia Joint Work on Agriculture outcomes.

• Unlocking Kenya’s Future through Inclusive Agroecological Business Models and Financing: Case of Fruit and Vegetable Value Chains (CGIAR) - Kenyan researchers analyze sustainable mango and vegetable farming models across two counties, targeting improved agricultural practices for small-scale farmers. Extended details: Research teams employed multiple analytical tools including Business Model Canvas and Cost-Benefit Analysis to evaluate existing agricultural practices and design improved agroecological business models for small-scale farmers. The project identified key interventions including organic farming systems, intercropping methods, and post-harvest loss reduction strategies, while developing investment cases to attract funding for scaling sustainable practices.

• Local and indigenous livestock for nature and biodiversity action – A new narrative for biodiversity from the NBSAPs (CGIAR) - Global biodiversity experts urge COP16 to recognize indigenous livestock practices, as pastoral communities maintain ecosystems across regions like Kenya's Maasai Mara. Extended details: Research shows traditional livestock grazing methods contribute to biodiversity through natural soil fertilization, seed dispersal, and land preservation, particularly in regions like Kenya's Maasai Mara. Stakeholders emphasize need for market development supporting indigenous breeds and smallholder pastoralists, while calling for better integration of livestock considerations in national biodiversity strategies.

• A Kenya water fund partners with farmers to protect vital resources (Mongabay) - Kenya's ambitious water conservation program unites 13,000 farmers to restore 120,000 hectares of degraded watersheds through sustainable practices. Extended details: The initiative, backed by The Nature Conservancy and $2.63M from the Global Environment Facility, addresses water contamination and shortages affecting 475,000 residents by promoting soil conservation, tree planting, and sustainable farming methods. The program also engages Indigenous communities through beekeeping projects and modern cooking stove initiatives, while using technology like drones and KoboCollect software to monitor progress and collect data.

• Chegou o tempo de semear (Socioambiental.org) - Brazil's Redário network supplies 250+ native seed species nationwide, aiming to restore 1,400 hectares through reforestation initiatives. Extended details: Network of 27 collector groups, including indigenous peoples and family farmers, has supplied over 580 tons of native seeds since 2006, contributing to 10% of Brazil's total restoration area. Direct seeding technique "muvuca" combines diverse species for faster, denser forest coverage at lower cost than traditional seedling planting, while providing income for local seed collectors.

• Friends of the Earth groups condemn new reports of violence and threats against communities by Astra Agro Lestari and Indonesian military police force (FOE News) - Indonesian palm oil firm AAL and military police allegedly attacked villagers during October land disputes in Sulawesi, with ten global brands suspending sourcing amid violence reports. Extended details: Multiple incidents reported where AAL subsidiary PT Agro Nusa Abadi, backed by military police force Brimob, forcibly harvested palm oil on contested lands and fired shots to suppress community protests. Ten global consumer brands have suspended sourcing from AAL, while others like P&G and Unilever continue relationships despite documented patterns of land grabbing, environmental violations, and human rights defender criminalization.

• Sea Forest strikes deal to bring livestock methane-busting seaweed supplements to East Africa (AgFunderNews) - Tasmanian firm Sea Forest will supply $2M worth of methane-reducing seaweed supplements annually to 30,000 East African cattle through Ugandan partner NileOrbital. Extended details: The partnership will deploy GreenFeed monitoring devices across 15 farms in Uganda and Kenya starting January 2025 to measure methane reductions from Asparagopsis seaweed supplements delivered via cattle licks. Revenue from resulting carbon credits will be shared with local farmers, with potential for expansion beyond the initial 3-year agreement.

• All of a Sudden, There’s Drought Everywhere (Heatmap News) - Drought conditions now grip 49 U.S. states, with 52% of the nation affected as wildfires and water restrictions spread across America. Extended details: New York City faces unprecedented autumn fires and a 6-7 inch rainfall deficit, while implementing water conservation measures and outdoor activity restrictions amid smoke concerns. The U.S. Drought Monitor reports 52% of the country in drought conditions, up from 21% three months prior, with different regions experiencing distinct drought mechanisms and varying severity levels.

Carbon

Copernicus data shows 1.5°C breach as WattCarbon projects $10T infrastructure needs; Drax launches Elimini carbon removal venture; Azerbaijan's SOCAR targets methane cuts ahead of COP29

• Guest post: What 1.5C overshoot would mean for climate impacts and adaptation (Carbon Brief) - Global study finds temporary breach of 1.5C warming target would cause lasting glacier and reef damage, though some climate impacts could partially recover if temperatures later decline. Extended details: Analysis of 140 cities reveals extreme heat stress could be reduced if temperatures return below 1.5C, though recovery would take decades. Modeling shows irreversible losses to Peru's glaciers and Brazilian biodiversity under current policies, but significant damage could still be avoided through immediate stringent emissions cuts.

• 2024 likely to be the hottest year on record (Future Planet) - Global temperatures in 2024 are on track to surpass 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels for the first time, according to new climate monitoring data from Copernicus. Extended details: Global temperatures through October 2024 have consistently broken monthly records, with European land temperatures averaging 1.23°C above the 1991-2020 baseline for October alone. The unprecedented warming trend has significant implications for international climate policy ahead of COP29, highlighting urgent need for accelerated emissions reduction efforts.

• The Decarbonization Road Ahead (WattCarbon) - Amid political headwinds threatening federal climate programs, decarbonization efforts are shifting to local levels while requiring $10 trillion in infrastructure spending over coming decades. Extended details: Recent election results favoring extractive industry allies threaten federal climate funding and corporate ESG initiatives, pushing decarbonization efforts toward state, community, and individual levels. WattCarbon emphasizes need for rigorous measurement and verification systems to track energy investments, estimating $10 trillion in required infrastructure spending over coming decades.

• Trading Update – Strong Performance, Disciplined Capital Allocation (Drax Global) - British energy giant Drax reports £1B earnings forecast for 2024, launches £300M share buyback and new US carbon removal venture Elimini. Extended details: Company expects 2024 earnings around £1B driven by flexible generation, pellet production and biomass generation, with net debt-to-EBITDA ratio near 1x. UK energy system operator confirms need for large-scale biomass in 2030 clean power system, while Drax develops international opportunities through new Elimini subsidiary focused on 24/7 renewable power and carbon removal projects.

• To Cut Emissions, Azerbaijan Prioritizes Oil and Gas (RMI) - Azerbaijan, a mid-tier oil producer hosting COP29, must tackle methane emissions as its energy sector accounts for 48% of GDP and 90% of exports, with two facilities responsible for 60% of gas flaring. Extended details: Azerbaijan's oil/gas sector comprises 48% of GDP and 90% of exports, with two offshore facilities accounting for 60% of gas flaring emissions. National oil company SOCAR has committed to cutting methane intensity below 0.2% by 2030 and achieving net-zero operational emissions by 2050, though success depends heavily on cooperation with international partners including BP.

Circular

Bagasse-based plates offer chemical-free, USDA-certified compostable dining solution with 180-day decomposition

• Are Bagasse Plates the Next Big Trend in Zero-Waste Living? (EcoSoul Home) - Eco-friendly plates made from sugarcane waste decompose within 90-180 days while being sturdy enough for all meal types and microwave use. Extended details: The plates are created through a three-stage pulping process using leftover sugarcane fiber (bagasse) that would otherwise be burned, followed by heat pressing and quality control inspections. These USDA-certified compostable plates are microwave-safe, sturdy enough for all meal types, and decompose within 90-180 days, offering a chemical-free alternative for both daily use and special events.

Ecosystems

African elephants show 90% decline except in southern reserves; Brazil's Serra das Araras loses 97% to fires; Gran Chaco jaguar killed; Venezuela's forest network collapses; Croatia's Velebit rewilding gains support; ancient Colorado rocks reveal global ice age

• African elephants declining — but some areas show promise (Mongabay) - African elephant populations plummeted up to 90% over five decades, though some protected areas in southern Africa showed promising recovery trends, according to a comprehensive continental study. Extended details: Analysis of 1,300+ surveys across 475 sites in 37 countries revealed forest elephants declined 90% and savanna elephants 70%, though 42% of southern African sites showed increases. Research indicates elephants fare better in large, connected protected areas versus isolated reserves, with most gains seen in savanna elephant populations while forest elephants continue steep declines except in rare cases like Benin's Pendjari National Park.

• Missing link to Snowball Earth history emerges from some unusual rocks on Colorado’s Pikes Peak (The Conversation) - Ancient Colorado sandstone formations reveal evidence of Earth's total ice coverage 690-660 million years ago, when the planet was frozen from pole to pole. Extended details: Scientists used advanced laser dating of iron oxide minerals to determine these unusual sandstone formations were created when massive ice sheets compressed and injected sand-rich meltwater into bedrock near the equator. The discovery helps confirm the Snowball Earth hypothesis that the planet was once entirely covered in ice and provides new insights into how early life survived this extreme climate event.

• Wildfires burn record 97% of key biodiversity area in Brazil’s Cerrado (Mongabay) - Wildfires ravaged 97% of Brazil's Serra das Araras reserve during the worst drought in 700 years, imperiling hundreds of species across 28,700 hectares of protected Cerrado savanna. Extended details: The 28,700-hectare protected area experienced unprecedented destruction during August-September 2024, exacerbated by the region's worst drought in 700 years and suspected illegal land clearing near park borders. While large animals likely escaped, amphibians and reptiles suffered high mortality, though controlled burns in 3% of the park successfully prevented total destruction.

• Long-running tropical forest research stalls amid Venezuelan crisis (Mongabay) - Venezuela's 70-year tropical forest research network, spanning half the nation's territory, has ceased operations since 2016 amid economic turmoil and security threats, ending crucial climate data collection. Extended details: Long-term monitoring projects dating back to 1950s have effectively halted since 2016 due to economic collapse, armed gangs, and institutional breakdown, with last significant measurements taken in forest plots that cover half of Venezuela's territory. Research stations face multiple threats including peasant invasions, logging encroachment, and lack of permits for international funding, while mass exodus of scientists and budget cuts below $50/month for professors have severely impacted data collection capabilities.

• Killing of jaguar pushes species’ survival in Argentina’s Gran Chaco to the brink (Mongabay) - Hunters in Argentina killed and skinned one of the last 10 surviving Gran Chaco jaguars, dealing a major blow to the species' regional survival. Extended details: The male jaguar, known as M7, was photographed by camera traps earlier in 2024 before being shot and skinned near Estanislao del Campo, with hunters posting trophy photos on social media leading to arrests. Conservation efforts are hampered by deeply rooted hunting culture, limited protected areas, and the presence of only one female jaguar in the region, recently rewilded into El Impenetrable National Park.

• Protected: Outreach efforts boost support for Velebit rewilding (Rewilding Europe) - Local support surges for Croatia's Velebit Mountains rewilding project through community outreach programs in 2023. Extended details: The protected mountain region in Croatia has seen increased public engagement through new website launches and documentary screenings aimed at building local understanding of rewilding efforts. Conservation efforts focus on restoring natural processes and wildlife populations, including Balkan chamois, while working to maintain positive relationships with surrounding communities.

Efficiency

Energy Conservatory CEO highlights critical 400 CFM/ton airflow and duct assessment standards for optimal heat pump performance and efficiency

• Ep. 13: the "Great Heat Pump Revolt of 2025" and how to avoid it, with Steve Rogers (AMPLY Energy) - HVAC expert warns 400 CFM/ton airflow requirements and proper duct assessment are vital to prevent heat pump failures that could triple energy costs by 2025. Extended details: The Energy Conservatory CEO details how inadequate duct systems can cause heat pumps to lock out on high pressure limits and force reliance on inefficient backup heat, potentially tripling energy bills and eroding consumer confidence. Proper heat pump sizing must consider both building load and existing duct capacity, with 400 CFM/ton airflow being optimal, while duct leakage outside conditioned space can double heating loads and should be prioritized over envelope improvements.

Finance

NCQG climate finance goal at COP29 to exceed $100B annually; World Bank and IMF step in as LiveEO debuts palm oil monitoring tools at RT2024

• The New Collective Quantified Goal on Climate Finance (NCQG) – COP29 Updates (CGIAR) - Global climate funding targets will surge beyond $100 billion annually when nations set the NCQG climate finance goal at COP29, aimed at supporting developing countries' climate initiatives. Extended details: Technical discussions through ad hoc work program indicate required funding likely exceeds $1 trillion annually, with USA and African Group emphasizing balance of public-private financing. CGIAR advocates $300-400B yearly for agricultural transformation alone, with emphasis on grants and concessional financing for adaptation and loss/damage initiatives in vulnerable nations.

• COP29: With public climate finance shortfall, is investment capital a way forward? (Mongabay) - Global climate summit addresses $2 trillion funding shortfall as wealthy nations' $115.9 billion contribution falls short, prompting private institutions to offer financial solutions. Extended details: Wealthy nations mobilized $115.9 billion for climate action in 2022, far below the estimated $2 trillion needed by 2030 for global climate initiatives and developing nation support. The World Bank, IMF and private financial institutions are positioning themselves as alternative funding sources, though activists worry about profit motives and debt burden on vulnerable nations.

• LiveEO | Meet us at the Annual Roundtable Conference on Sustainable Palm Oil 2024 (LiveEO) - Satellite monitoring firm LiveEO will present palm oil supply chain sustainability tools at Bangkok's RT2024 Conference, showcasing solutions for industry compliance and transparency. Extended details: Company will demonstrate TradeAware app at Booth #6, offering personalized consultations on EUDR compliance and deforestation monitoring for palm oil operations. Event brings together industry leaders to address sustainable palm oil production challenges, with LiveEO focusing on satellite-based supply chain transparency solutions.

Indigenous

Indigenous leaders seek direct NCQG and CFAF funding access as Afro-descendants gain Article 8(j) inclusion, with $121.5M Quilombo program launch

• What Indigenous leaders want from the COP29 U.N. climate conference (Mongabay) - Indigenous leaders at COP29 demand better access to climate funding, as only 2.1% of global climate finance reaches their communities directly. Extended details: Only 2.1% of climate finance currently reaches Indigenous communities directly, with leaders seeking access to new funds like NCQG ($100B/year) and CFAF ($1B from fossil fuel producers) while navigating bureaucratic barriers. Indigenous representatives emphasize need for bottom-up funding approaches, carbon market rights protections, and fair partnerships in renewable energy projects, with 54% of Indigenous lands containing critical minerals.

• Entenda conquista histórica obtida por afrodescendentes na COP16 (SocioAmbiental) - Afro-descendants in Latin America and Caribbean gain first-ever inclusion in global biodiversity agreements after three decades of exclusion from COP conservation frameworks. Extended details: The landmark decision modifies Article 8(j) to explicitly include Afro-descendants alongside indigenous peoples and local communities in biodiversity conservation efforts, led by Colombia and Brazil's advocacy. The initiative includes a $121.5M "Quilombo of the Americas" program through 2028 to address racial and environmental inequalities, while supporting territorial rights and traditional knowledge preservation.

Industry

Floreon showcases PLA bioplastics at COP29 Azerbaijan while Japan's FAST fusion project and Kyoto Fusioneering target 2030s power generation

• COP29: A Crucial Step in Climate Action and Sustainable Manufacturing (Floreon.com) - Global climate summit COP29 will spotlight Floreon's eco-friendly PLA bioplastics as industry leaders gather in Azerbaijan to tackle emissions reduction targets. Extended details: The November 2024 conference will evaluate progress on Paris Agreement goals and strategies for reducing greenhouse gas emissions across industries. Floreon's PLA bioplastic technology offers renewable, recyclable alternatives to fossil-fuel plastics with lower emissions and multiple end-of-life options including mechanical recycling, chemical recycling, and industrial composting.

• Fusion Energy Power Generation Demonstration Project, FAST, Launched in Japan (Kyoto Fusioneering) - Japan launches international FAST fusion energy project, aiming to achieve power generation by late 2030s through collaboration with global partners and specialized engineering from Kyoto Fusioneering. Extended details: The FAST project unites global researchers and industry partners to develop fusion power generation technology, with Kyoto Fusioneering providing specialized engineering for thermal cycle and fuel cycle systems. The initiative represents Japan's major commitment to achieving practical fusion energy, focusing on essential components for efficient energy extraction and sustainable power generation.

Policy

UN biodiversity summit sees low 22% national plan submission rate while establishing Cali Fund and indigenous advisory body; COP29 tackles $100B+ climate funding and military emissions; 82 nations back gender equity in agriculture transition; $700M Loss & Damage Fund prioritizes agricultural aid

• COP16: Principales resultados acordados en la conferencia de la ONU sobre biodiversidad en Cali, Colombia (Carbon Brief) - UN biodiversity summit ends with mixed results as only 22% of nations submit required plans, while establishing genetic data sharing and indigenous advisory mechanisms. Extended details: The conference failed to reach quorum for establishing a new biodiversity fund after 10-hour negotiations, though it did create the "Cali Fund" for genetic resource benefit sharing and a permanent indigenous peoples' advisory body for future COPs. Only 44 of 196 parties (22%) submitted required national biodiversity plans by the conference deadline, with developing nations citing lack of funding and megadiverse countries noting insufficient time for proper consultations.

• What to expect on militarism, conflict and climate at COP29 (CEOBS) - Azerbaijan's COP29 climate summit tackles $100B+ annual funding goals and military emissions reporting while promoting itself as a "COP of Peace" despite regional tensions. Extended details: Negotiations will focus on establishing new climate finance goals exceeding $100B annually, with proposals including military spending taxes and measures to help conflict-affected regions. Civil society groups are pushing for mandatory military emissions reporting and inclusion in national climate plans, while highlighting concerns about "peacewashing" given Azerbaijan's expanding fossil fuel production.

• Article 6.8 – COP29 Negotiation Updates (CGIAR) - Global research partnership proposes capacity-building measures for national climate coordinators to strengthen non-market cooperation under Paris Agreement Article 6.8. Extended details: The submission advocates for enhanced technical training in greenhouse gas quantification and stakeholder engagement through Green Climate Fund readiness programs, targeting the 2025-2026 phase. CGIAR emphasizes improving coordination between national focal points and climate finance mechanisms while ensuring human rights and environmental safeguards in non-market approaches to climate action.

• Just Transition – COP29 Negotiation Updates (CGIAR) - Global climate talks broaden Just Transition programs to include agriculture, with 82 nations backing gender equity measures for developing countries. Extended details: The conference builds on COP28's Gender-Responsive Just Transitions framework (82 signatures) and previous Just Energy Transition Partnerships, focusing on financing mechanisms for developing nations. FAO and CGIAR jointly advocate for targeted policy support, increased climate-resilient technology investment, and social protection measures to ensure equitable transition in agrifood systems, particularly for vulnerable groups and women.

• Loss and Damage – COP29 Updates (CGIAR) - Global climate summit COP29 will manage a $700M Loss and Damage Fund supporting vulnerable nations, prioritizing agricultural aid and efficient distribution mechanisms. Extended details: The Fund, operationalized at COP28 with initial pledges, aims to address unavoidable climate impacts but falls short of projected $580B in damages developing countries may face by 2030. Agriculture sector, receiving only 4.3% of climate finance in 2019-2020, requires increased priority in Fund allocation to strengthen vulnerable food systems and support affected communities.

• Global Goal on Adaptation – COP29 Negotiation Update (CGIAR) - Global climate resilience efforts gain momentum as UN adaptation framework sets new targets and monitoring protocols at COP29. Extended details: The UAE Framework for Global Climate Resilience established specific adaptation targets, supported by a two-year UAE-Belém work program to develop progress indicators and measurement tools. CGIAR's submission emphasizes need for comprehensive indicators in food security, sustainable agriculture, and equitable access, with expert representation in water/sanitation and food/agriculture targets.

• Strengthening disaster preparedness through impact-based forecasting (ETH Zurich) - ETH Zurich researchers unveil open-source system predicting cyclone-driven population displacement by integrating weather forecasts, population data, and vulnerability metrics. Extended details: The system analyzes both weather forecast uncertainty and vulnerability factors to predict displacement risks, with weather being most crucial at longer lead times and vulnerability becoming key near landfall. Developed through ETH Zurich and IDMC collaboration, the system was successfully tested with Cyclone Yasa in Fiji and uses freely available data to ensure global accessibility, particularly in resource-limited regions.

• Congratulations to Dave Upthegrove (RFPF.org) - Democrat Dave Upthegrove secured Washington's State Lands Commissioner position with 52.88% of votes, defeating Republican Jaime Herrera Beutler by nearly 200,000 votes. Extended details: Upthegrove, a current King County Council member since 2014 and former state legislator, campaigned on protecting public lands from industrial interests. His victory, with a margin of nearly 200,000 votes, follows his successful tenure representing District 5 where he won his third term in 2021 with 63.9% of the vote.

• At COP29, US envoy upbeat despite looming climate policy changes (Mongabay) - US climate envoy John Podesta reaffirms America's climate commitments at COP29 in Azerbaijan, despite Donald Trump's election victory threatening policy changes. Extended details: At the UN Climate Change Summit in Baku, Azerbaijan, Podesta emphasized continued US commitment to climate action despite Trump's upcoming presidency, stating "facts are still facts, science is still science" amid global climate disasters. The summit focuses on establishing new financial targets to support developing nations' renewable energy transition and adaptation efforts, with particular emphasis on methane emission reductions and climate finance accessibility.

• Families on the frontlines: the human impact of climate crisis (Greenpeace International) - Climate survivors across three continents demand oil companies pay for damages after extreme weather displaced families and destroyed homes in Brazil, South Africa, and Philippines. Extended details: Brazilian couple describes harrowing flood rescue and 22-day displacement, while South African family recounts tornado destruction of their home, with both incidents causing severe property damage and emotional trauma. Victims across three continents emphasize the need for fossil fuel companies to pay for climate crisis damages, highlighting the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events affecting vulnerable communities.

• Global Climate Action in the Era of Trump Two — Is It Possible? (CCAN Action Fund) - Global climate initiatives forge ahead with 192 UN nations committed, as renewable investments hit $55.5 billion despite potential U.S. political shifts in 2024. Extended details: World leaders at COP29 in Azerbaijan are pursuing climate finance deals worth trillions annually, while renewable energy growth continues globally despite U.S. political shifts. State and local governments, along with businesses, are prepared to maintain climate progress, as demonstrated during Trump's first term when U.S. renewable investments reached $55.5 billion in 2019.

• Trump Taps Lee Zeldin for EPA Administrator (EDF.org) - Trump taps former New York congressman Lee Zeldin for EPA leadership, raising concerns among environmental advocates over potential policy rollbacks. Extended details: Environmental Defense Fund emphasizes need for nominee to demonstrate commitment to public health, climate action, and clean energy leadership during confirmation process. Concerns stem from Trump's previous EPA administration record of environmental deregulation and its impact on climate progress and health protections.

• 🌏 Trump 2.0 for climate tech #222 (CTVC) - Clean tech sector braces for selective impacts under potential Trump presidency, though $369 billion in existing climate incentives and market forces continue propelling adoption forward. Extended details: While federal climate policies and IRA incentives face threats of rollback, market fundamentals and state-level initiatives continue driving clean tech adoption, particularly in wind, solar and manufacturing. Republican control could reduce DOE funding and environmental regulations, but deregulation might accelerate some project deployments while international mandates and private sector demand maintain momentum in key sectors.

• Nature-inclusive solar parks in the EU (Metabolic.nl) - New EU policy framework aims to boost biodiversity at solar installations while maximizing clean energy production across member states. Extended details: Research identifies need for clear definition of nature-inclusive solar parks and integration into EU policy frameworks, emphasizing proper siting, construction practices, and lifecycle management. Study recommends involving local communities and experts in planning process, while establishing supportive policies at both EU and local levels to ensure environmental benefits and community acceptance.

• Trump Taps Lee Zeldin for EPA Administrator (EDF.org) - Trump taps former New York congressman Lee Zeldin for EPA leadership, raising concerns among environmental advocates over potential policy rollbacks. Extended details: Environmental Defense Fund emphasizes need for nominee to demonstrate commitment to public health, climate action, and clean energy leadership during confirmation process. Concerns stem from Trump's previous EPA administration record of environmental deregulation and its impact on climate progress and health protections.

• The just energy transition ignores labour outside the formal economy. So is it just? (The Conversation) - New research finds women perform half of global artisanal mining work while providing essential unpaid services that sustain both traditional and green energy industries. Extended details: Research shows up to 50% of global artisanal mining workforce consists of women, with millions more providing essential unpaid services like food, healthcare, and cleaning to support formal mining operations. The current transition framework fails to address how industrial mining operations rely on exploited, informal labor from marginalized communities, particularly women in resource-rich countries, to maintain profitability.

• How we developed sign language for ten of the trickiest climate terms (The Conversation) - Edinburgh researchers create 400 new British Sign Language terms to help explain climate science, bridging communication gaps in scientific education. Extended details: A 12-person expert team created signs that represent scientific processes rather than literal English translations, such as showing carbon emissions being released for "carbon footprint" instead of combining separate signs for "carbon" and "footprint." The new signs undergo rigorous feedback from deaf scientists, educators, and students before being professionally filmed and added to the Scottish Sensory Centre BSL online glossary with BSL definitions.

• Australia at COP29 Climate Diary (Climate Citizen) - Global climate summit COP29 in Azerbaijan confronts hurdles over carbon trading, funding targets, and Australia's fossil fuel growth, as Trump's possible return to power looms large. Extended details: The conference, running November 11-22, focuses on establishing new financial goals for developed nations to fund developing countries' emission reductions, with Australia's Climate Minister Chris Bowen co-leading consultations. Australia faces criticism for approving new coal mines and gas projects while lobbying to host COP31 in 2026, amid concerns about carbon credit integrity and safeguard mechanism effectiveness.

• Trump’s EPA Pick Hates Congestion Pricing and Loves Shellfish (Heatmap News) - Former New York Representative Lee Zeldin, known for opposing offshore wind and EV mandates while supporting fossil fuels, has been selected as Trump's choice to lead the Environmental Protection Agency. Extended details: Zeldin, who previously focused on local Long Island environmental issues like shellfish protection and opposed fracking bans, has aligned with Trump's energy policies including resistance to offshore wind projects and EV mandates. His nomination suggests a likely reversal of Biden-era environmental regulations, though his environmental policy record is less extensive than previous Trump EPA head Scott Pruitt.

• The Pro-IRA House Republicans Who Lost Their Jobs (Heatmap News) - Pro-climate Republican support in House drops from 18 to potentially 14 members as multiple IRA-backing GOP lawmakers lose seats in 2024. Extended details: Two New York Republicans who signed pro-IRA letter lost to Democrats, while four more signatories face uncertain outcomes in uncalled races. The remaining pro-IRA Republican bloc could still influence House agenda with slim 11-vote majority margin, though newly elected Republicans in flipped seats have largely campaigned against climate initiatives.

• What to Expect from COP29 (Heatmap News) - Over 100 heads of state convene in Azerbaijan for COP29 climate summit to negotiate trillion-dollar finance targets, while Biden, Xi, and Modi opt out of attendance. Extended details: Over 100 heads of state gather to set new climate finance targets potentially reaching trillions, while key leaders including Biden, Xi, and Modi skip the event. Azerbaijan-hosted talks focus on carbon credit markets and emissions reduction plans, with Trump's election victory casting uncertainty over U.S. climate commitments.

• Trump’s Gift to China (Heatmap News) - China's dominance in green technology manufacturing could expand further if Trump follows through on plans to dismantle Biden's climate policies, with Beijing already controlling up to 80% of key renewable sectors. Extended details: China currently produces 80% of global solar panels and batteries, 60% of wind turbines, and 58% of EVs, while Trump's election has already caused U.S. renewable company stocks to plunge. A second Trump presidency threatens both America's climate progress and its alliance system, potentially accelerating China's economic and diplomatic influence as countries seek alternatives to U.S. leadership.

Renewables

YouSolar's PowerBloc nanogrid system features 90% US-made components amid forecasts of $4.5T global power market by 2034

• Made in America, by Arnold Leitner, CEO (YouSolar) - California firm YouSolar produces PowerBloc solar nanogrids with 90% US components, as global power markets surge toward $4.5 trillion by 2034. Extended details: CEO Arnold Leitner leads production of PowerBloc system using American-made inverters from Minnesota and modules/electronics from California, with only batteries sourced from China due to domestic manufacturing limitations. The initiative aligns with projections of global power market doubling to $4.5 trillion by 2034, while emphasizing domestic clean technology manufacturing capabilities.

Transport

DFDS adopts solar-powered refrigeration units; SWTCH Energy partners with California schools for EV charging; solid-state battery breakthroughs from LG and Samsung promise 1000km EV range

• First Commercial Sunswap Endurance Units Delivered to DFDS (Sunswap) - UK logistics giant DFDS orders 10 solar-powered refrigeration units that maintain cold chain temperatures for 22 hours per charge, cutting CO2 emissions by 895 tonnes over their lifespan. Extended details: The Endurance units combine solar panels and battery power to maintain cold chain temperatures for up to 22 hours per charge, eliminating diesel fuel use and reducing CO2 emissions by 895 tonnes over 10-year lifespan. Trial results show 71% lower operating costs compared to diesel units, with solar panels providing 65-100% of charging needs, marking a significant advancement in sustainable cold chain logistics.

• SWTCH Partners with FoundationCCC to Simplify EV Charging Procurement Across California’s Educational and Civic Institutions (SWTCH Energy) - California schools gain direct access to SWTCH Energy's electric vehicle charging systems through FoundationCCC, offering preferred rates without traditional procurement processes. Extended details: Five-year agreement enables community colleges, universities, and K-12 schools to procure SWTCH EV charging solutions at preferred rates through CollegeBuys, SchoolBuys, and CivicBuys programs. Solutions include RFID access management, load balancing technology to optimize existing electrical infrastructure, and advanced energy management software to control demand charges.

• Are Solid-State Batteries the Future of EVs? (Addionics) - New solid-state batteries could deliver 1,000km range and 10-15 minute charging times for electric vehicles, with 8,000-10,000 charge cycles versus current batteries' 1,500-2,000. Extended details: Leading manufacturers including LG Energy Solution and Samsung are racing to commercialize solid-state batteries that could enable 1,000km range and 10-15 minute charging times. The technology replaces flammable liquid electrolytes with solid ones, offering 8,000-10,000 charge cycles versus 1,500-2,000 for current batteries, though initial deployment will target premium vehicles due to high costs.