Tag Archives: environment

Climate, and Environment

The Eco-Friendly Appeal of Mechanical Pencils – Japanese Pentel ORENZNERO vs. Traditional Pens

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I bought Pentel ORENZNERO Mechanical Pencil around 5 years back when I was traveling to Singapore. The salesman was pitchy and really sold me this idea of a Mechanical Pencil. In the past 5 years, a lot of shift has happened around me and to me. The major one was being a more responsible human being when it comes to our environment and society. Having used the Japanese Pentel ORENZNERO extensively as a replacement for regular pens, I’ve delved deep into assessing its environmental impact lately. Here’s a comprehensive look into why, from a holistic standpoint, I believe having a Mechanical Pencil can be a superior choice over disposable pens.

Carbon Footprint – Mechanical Pencil vs. Pen

To understand the eco-friendliness of any product, we must know its carbon footprint across its overall life cycle. This would involve understanding the emissions from raw material extraction, manufacturing, distribution, usage, and end-of-life disposal. Let’s look an assumption based comparison for a broader comparison:

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Climate Change, Climate, and Environment

Repurposing $1 trillion in fossil fuel subsidies towards sustainability

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The government gives a lots of subsidies on the fossil fuels every year – more than a trillion dollars in 2022! But using fossil fuel also causes problems for the environment and people’s health, which end up costing over 5 trillion dollars a year. Considering the challenges that today’s world is facing, there are other more effective alternatives towards which these billions and trillions of dollar should be diverged to, i.e. towards more sustainability driven initiatives.

Studies have found that air pollution from fossil fuels causes around 8.7 million early deaths each year. Plus, it’s messing up the climate big time. It’s a huge number, and it means that the fossil fuels when subsidized result in the suffering of humans from the bad health and environmental issues, which must be stopped. So, it’s high time to change our priorities and put our money into renewable energy like wind, solar, and hydro power. It will not only help us in the fight against the changing climate, but it’ll also create new jobs for us. Ideally, we should use this cash to create a more sustainable future for everyone.

Also, to set things in a more clear perspective before I start putting in my thoughts on how we can repurpose it is that, if we factor in the social cost of carbon (SCC), estimated at around $50 per ton of CO2, we can see the true impact of these subsidies. With $1 trillion in fossil fuel subsidies, we’re indirectly supporting the emission of around 20 billion tons of CO2. So, my intent in this blog is to give my own perspective, that is my individual perspective on different ways we could utilize this fund in a much better way. And I would love to hear your perspectives in the comment, or maybe your ideas.

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Climate, and Environment, Renewable & Recycling

Green Airplanes – the flight towards a sustainable future

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I hope you’re also very much excited to dive into the world of green and sustainable airplanes. We all know that the carbon footprint of the aviation industry is very much talked about when we speak carbon footprints. This blog, will explore the challenges, technological advancements, and policy-level impacts that are we should look into to understand what and how the transition towards a more sustainable future in air travel. So, fasten your seatbelts and get ready for an eco-friendly ride through the skies!

Let’s start with the elephant in the room – the carbon emissions of airplanes. According to the International Council on Clean Transportation, aviation accounted for roughly 2.4% of global CO2 emissions in 2018. With air travel becoming more affordable and accessible, this figure is expected to grow if no action is taken.

The biggest challenge is in reducing the carbon footprint of airplanes is the heavy reliance on fossil fuels. Kerosene is the primary fuel used in aviation and it releases a considerable amount of CO2 when burned. Having said that, the challenge lies in finding viable alternatives that can match the energy density and reliability of traditional fuels.

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Climate, and Environment, Renewable & Recycling

India’s Circular economy, the secret to resource and sustainability

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Known for its resourcefulness and thriftiness, India is home to many diverse cultures and traditions. Because of its limited resources and growing population, the country has long recognized how important it is to conserve resources and promote sustainable practices. For centuries, India has practiced circular economy principles in various ways. It’s not a new concept in India. For instance, in India, repurposing kitchen waste is a common practice. For centuries, it has been practiced in different forms. Organic fertilizer for agriculture is made from this waste, and it’s turned into compost.

Using a circular economy minimizes waste, optimizes resource use, and promotes sustainability. Circular economies are different from linear economies, in which raw materials are extracted, processed, used, and then thrown away as waste. In general, the circular economy emphasizes repairing, refurbishing, and recycling materials so they can be reused for as long as possible. Three key principles of the circular economy: reducing waste and pollution, preserving products and materials for a long time, and regenerating nature.

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Climate Change, Renewable & Recycling

India’s challenges & opportunities – Article 6, Paris Agreement

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India’s big step towards tackling the climate crisis by committing to the Paris Agreement is not shadowed on the international forums. Our country has made several ambitious targets to reduce its carbon footprint and increase its use of clean energy. But, as a developing country, we need support from the developed nations to achieve these targets. And, let me tell you, we are making progress, but still, there are areas where more efforts are needed. We need to speed up our efforts to fulfill our commitments and make this planet a better place for future generations.

India’s commitment towards Article 6 of the Paris Agreement

Let me tell you something, India’s aspiration and promising attitude to show the world in the fight against climate change has already caught the limelight in at the event of the Article 6 of Paris Agreement. To strengthen cooperation and support for global action, India has committed to the following initiatives:

Initiative TypeTarget
Renewable Energy175 GW of installed renewable energy capacity by 2022
Energy EfficiencyEnergy equivalent to 20% of the total energy consumption by 2020
Transportation30% of electric vehicles on the road by 2030
Industrial ProcessesReduce the emissions intensity of GDP by 33-35% by 2030 from 2005 level
ForestCreate a carbon sink of 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent through additional forest and tree cover by 2030
Waste ManagementProcess 100% of municipal solid waste by 2023
AgricultureIncrease carbon sequestration in agriculture and allied sectors by 2.5 to 3 GtCO2e by 2030
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Climate Change, Renewable & Recycling

Revealing the transformative potential: Article 6 of Paris Agreement

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Article 6 of the Paris Agreement pertains to the cooperation between Parties in the implementation of the Agreement. It includes provisions for the use of internationally transferred mitigation outcomes (ITMOs) towards achieving nationally determined contributions (NDCs) and the creation of a mechanism to contribute to the mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions and support sustainable development. It also establishes a framework for cooperation on, and facilitation of, capacity-building, and transparency of action and support. This Article is one of the key mechanisms to achieve the goal of the Paris Agreement to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius above the pre-industrial level and pursue efforts to limit the temperature increase even further to 1.5 degrees Celsius.

Table Of Contents
  1. Countries with potential to help fellow countries as per Article 6 of the Paris agreement
  2. 7 ways in which sustainable development can be extended as part of the Article 6 of Paris Agreement
  3. Closing Note: Article 6 of the Paris Agreement
  4. Would you like to connect & have a talk?

Countries with potential to help fellow countries as per Article 6 of the Paris agreement

The Paris Agreement, a historic pact signed by nearly 200 countries, emphasizes the importance of international cooperation in tackling this global crisis. Under Article 6, countries are urged to collaborate and support each other in reaching their climate targets.

In the below context, I am trying to drill down the nations that hold the potential to be instrumental in helping other countries reduce their carbon footprint and create a greener tomorrow. Whether through investments in sustainable energy sources, the development and export of low-carbon technologies, or the reduction of dependence on fossil fuels, these nations are poised to make a significant impact in our fight against climate change.

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Climate Change, Climate, and Environment

The non-climatic benefits of fighting against climate change

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Climate change is not just an environmental concern, but a multifaceted issue that has the potential to impact various spheres of human life. However, what many don’t realize is that addressing climate change can also have several co-benefits that can help to solve other non-climate related problems.

For instance, transitioning to clean energy sources such as wind and solar power can not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also air and water pollution. This, in turn, can lead to improved public health and reduced healthcare costs. Moreover, investing in renewable energy sources can reduce dependence on fossil fuels, thereby increasing energy security and reducing the risk of price fluctuations and supply disruptions.

Also socio-cultural benefits such as building resilient communities, protecting cultural heritage, raising awareness and education, promoting social cohesion, preserving traditional knowledge, and preserving cultural identity can also be factored. Involving and engaging communities in addressing climate change and considering the cultural and social dimensions of climate change is crucial for creating a sustainable and equitable future for all.

Another important aspect is job creation. Transitioning to a low-carbon economy can open up new opportunities in industries such as renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable transportation. Additionally, reducing greenhouse gas emissions can also help to reduce deforestation, habitat destruction, and other activities that contribute to the loss of biodiversity.

Specific use-cases demonstrating non-climatic benefits

I am targeting in this article to highlight various ways in which investment in sustainable practices and technologies can lead to significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and improvements in public health. From China’s investment in renewable energy and energy efficiency, to Copenhagen’s investment in cycling infrastructure and Singapore’s comprehensive water management program, each example demonstrates the positive impact that sustainable practices can have on both the environment and public health.

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Additionally, many of the below examples will show the economic benefits of these sustainable practices, including cost savings on healthcare and energy consumption. The article emphasizes the potential for cities and states to make a meaningful impact on the environment and public health through strategic investment in sustainable practices.

LocationStudy Conducted byInitiativeReduction in Greenhouse Gas EmissionsImprovement in Other Area
Barcelona, SpainCity of BarcelonaComprehensive green roof program10%Decrease in incidence of heat-related illness
Bogotรก, ColombiaCity GovernmentImplementation of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system20% reduction in transportation emissionsImproved mobility for residents (increase in access to jobs, education and services)
CaliforniaCalifornia Air Resources BoardDeployment of solar power20%6,000 premature deaths avoided and $4.4 billion in health care cost savings. Improved air quality and reduced incidence of respiratory illness
CaliforniaCalifornia Department of TransportationPromotion of green transportation options10%Improved public health, decrease in obesity, heart disease and diabetes
ChinaTsinghua UniversityRenewable energy and energy efficiencyN/A4.3% reduction in PM2.5 (64,800 premature deaths avoided)
ColoradoColorado Energy OfficePromotion of clean energy25%Improved public health, decrease in air pollution and respiratory illness
Copenhagen, DenmarkCity GovernmentInvestment in cycling infrastructure22% reduction in transportation emissionsImproved public health (decrease in cardiovascular disease and obesity)
Copenhagen, DenmarkCity of CopenhagenComprehensive bike-sharing program, and Implementation of urban greening program10% – 15%Reduced incidence of obesity, heart disease, and stroke. Overall Improved public health, decrease in stress and mental health issues
Curitiba, BrazilCity of CuritibaComprehensive public transportation program20%Reduced incidence of obesity, heart disease, and stroke
Curitiba, BrazilCuritiba Municipal GovernmentComprehensive waste management system30%Reduced incidence of respiratory illness and diarrhea
Delhi, IndiaIndian Institute of TechnologyWaste Management and Recycling25% reduction in methane emissions from landfillsImproved sanitation and reduced risk of water pollution
Frankfurt, GermanyCity of FrankfurtComprehensive green building program30%Reduced incidence of respiratory illness, asthma, and allergies
Gujarat, IndiaGujarat Energy Development AgencyPromotion of solar energy20%Reduced incidence of respiratory illness
Jaipur, IndiaTERI (The Energy and Resources Institute)Solar Power Generation30% reduction in CO2 emissions from power generationImproved public health and reduced health care costs due to decrease in air pollution
London, UKGreater London AuthorityComprehensive green infrastructure program15%Reduced incidence of stress and mental health issues
London, United KingdomTransport for LondonComprehensive public transportation system20%Decrease in incidence of physical inactivity and obesity
MaineMaine Department of Marine ResourcesPromotion of sustainable fishing practices15%Decrease in incidence of mercury and other heavy metal exposure
Malmรถ, SwedenCity of MalmรถUrban greening program5%Reduced incidence of stress and mental health issues
MichiganMichigan Department of TransportationPromotion of sustainable transportation20%Improved public health, decrease in obesity, heart disease and diabetes
MinnesotaMinnesota Department of AgriculturePromotion of sustainable agriculture20%Decrease in incidence of pesticide exposure and other environmental health issues
Mumbai, IndiaCenter for Science and EnvironmentTransition to Electric Vehicles35% reduction in CO2 emissions from transportation sector50% reduction in air pollution-related deaths by 2030
New YorkNew York State Energy Research and Development AuthorityPromotion of energy efficiency25%Reduced incidence of respiratory illness, asthma, and allergies
OregonOregon Department of Environmental QualityConservation of wetlands0.5 million metric tons of CO2 equivalent per yearImproved water quality (decrease in the frequency of harmful algal blooms)
OregonOregon Department of ForestryPromotion of sustainable forestry15%Improved public health, decrease in air pollution and respiratory illness
OregonOregon Department of TransportationPromotion of sustainable transportation10%Decrease in incidence of obesity and heart disease
Rio de Janeiro, BrazilMunicipal Secretariat of Environment and Sustainability of Rio de JaneiroComprehensive solid waste management program15%Decrease in incidence of vector-borne diseases and other health issues related to poor sanitation
Seoul, South KoreaSeoul Metropolitan GovernmentComprehensive green city program30%Decrease in incidence of heat-related illness and other health issues related to urbanization
SingaporeBuilding and Construction Authority of SingaporeComprehensive green building program20%Improved public health, decrease in indoor air pollution and respiratory illness
SingaporePublic Utilities Board of SingaporeComprehensive water management program20%Reduced incidence of water-borne diseases
Sydney, AustraliaSydney Water CorporationComprehensive water conservation program15%Reduced incidence of water-borne diseases
TexasTexas Public Utility CommissionPromotion of wind energy15%Improved air quality and reduced incidence of respiratory illness
Toronto, CanadaCity of TorontoComprehensive green space program15%Decrease in incidence of stress and mental health issues
Toronto, CanadaCity of TorontoImplementation of green roof program10%Improved public health, decrease in heat-related illness and other health issues related to urbanization
Toronto, CanadaCity of TorontoTree planting program20%Reduced incidence of respiratory illness, asthma, and allergies
UKEnergy Saving TrustInstallation of energy-efficient measures in low-income households20% reduction in energy consumptionImproved health outcomes (reduction in respiratory symptoms, asthma, and allergies)
Vancouver, CanadaCity of VancouverImplementation of green infrastructure program20%Reduced incidence of respiratory illness, asthma, and allergies, Improved public health, decrease in heat-related illness and other health issues related to urbanization
Vermont, USAVermont Sustainable Jobs FundPromotion of local food systems20%Reduced incidence of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease

The shift towards a more sustainable future is essential for addressing the pressing global issues of climate change, energy security, and resource depletion. A comprehensive approach that incorporates a variety of sustainable practices across different sectors can help to mitigate these challenges and promote economic development, social well-being, and environmental protection.

Startup companies contributing to climate change mitigation
Startup companies contributing to climate change mitigation
There are a number of startups out there that are tackling climate change head on. These companies come from different industries and are using a variety of methods to cut down on greenhouse gases and lessen the effects of climate change. This article showcases some of these innovative firms and their efforts to protect our […]

From renewable energy sources, sustainable land use practices, sustainable transportation options, energy efficient buildings, sustainable water management, sustainable waste management, sustainable urban planning, sustainable tourism, sustainable forestry and fisheries practices, green infrastructure, sustainable agriculture practices, sustainable urban development, green financing mechanisms, and reforestation projects, there are many ways to create a more sustainable future. Implementing these practices can lead to improved energy security, food security, public health outcomes, economic productivity, and resilience to extreme weather events.

Furthermore, investing in sustainable practices can create jobs and stimulate economic growth, lower energy costs, reduce poverty and improve economic competitiveness, improve air quality and reduce noise pollution, protect property and infrastructure, and protect habitats and biodiversity.

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Climate Change

Startup companies contributing to climate change mitigation

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There are a number of startups out there that are tackling climate change head on. These companies come from different industries and are using a variety of methods to cut down on greenhouse gases and lessen the effects of climate change. This article showcases some of these innovative firms and their efforts to protect our planet. Please note, its just a small list and I do not have sponsorship from any one of them ๐Ÿ™‚

One company has developed a technology that captures and sequesters CO2 from industrial processes and uses it to make concrete stronger and more durable. Another company specializes in developing and operating facilities that convert waste into clean energy. There is a company that manufactures inverters and other technologies that help optimize the performance of solar energy systems. There is also a company that provides electric vehicle charging infrastructure and related services. Another company has developed a technology that captures CO2 from industrial emissions and uses it to produce chemicals and fuels.

So the idea is to share a small sample of many startup companies that are focused on developing and commercializing innovative technologies and services that directly or indirectly help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate the impacts of climate change.

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Renewable & Recycling

Electrifying world with Solar: How much Surface Area required?

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Electricity powers our daily lives and drives economic growth, so it’s no surprise that some countries consume more electricity than others. According to recent data, the top 10 countries with the highest total electricity consumption are China, the United States, India, Russia, Japan, Germany, South Korea, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Canada. These countries have high demand for electricity due to factors such as large populations, industrialization, and economic development.

It has been an interesting exercise to mathematically assume how much surface area would be required to install solar panels in these countries to meet their electricity needs. However, please do understand that this article is purely an interesting hypothesis and not a concrete recommendation in any sense. It’s just a mere area-based assumption to see how much land we might need to electrify a country or this entire world.

China, the United States, and India are the largest consumers of electricity globally, with China alone accounting for almost 20% of total global electricity consumption. Russia, Japan, and Germany also have large and developed economies, which contribute to their high levels of electricity consumption. South Korea, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Canada also consume relatively large amounts of electricity due to their populations, industrial bases, and economic development. I assume that you possess the basic understanding that electricity consumption doesn’t necessarily reflect a country’s prosperity or well-being, but it is a significant indicator of economic and industrial activity.

Top 10 countries with the highest total electricity consumption (2019):

  1. China – 9,596 billion kWh
  2. United States – 4,178 billion kWh
  3. India – 3,599 billion kWh
  4. Russia – 1,295 billion kWh
  5. Japan – 1,196 billion kWh
  6. Germany – 647 billion kWh
  7. South Korea – 593 billion kWh
  8. Iran – 423 billion kWh
  9. Saudi Arabia – 358 billion kWh
  10. Canada – 347 billion kWh

Again, I am referring my last quote before banging on the complete article is that the ranking of countries by electricity consumption may change depending on the data source and time frame being considered for these assumptions. It is also important to remember that a country’s electricity consumption does not necessarily reflect its level of development or well-being.”.

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Climate Change

Why poor experience the most severe effects of climate change?

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Climate change affects everyone, but it disproportionately impacts vulnerable and marginalized communities, including the poor. These communities often have fewer resources and less political power to adapt to and mitigate the impacts of climate change.

For example, in a coastal community where fishing is a major source of income, rising sea levels and more frequent storms may make it more difficult for fishermen to go out to sea, leading to a loss of income. Without the financial means to adapt, such as by investing in more durable boats or finding alternative sources of income, these individuals and their families may be at risk of poverty and food insecurity.

According to a report by the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), between 1995 and 2015, more than 95% of all deaths caused by natural disasters occurred in developing countries. During this period, more than 1.3 million people died as a result of natural disasters, and more than 4.4 billion people were affected.

It is difficult to determine the exact percentage of people living in poverty worldwide, as definitions of poverty and methods of measuring it vary across countries and regions. However, according to the World Bank, as of 2021, about 9.2% of the global population, or about 689 million people, lived in extreme poverty, defined as living on less than $1.90 per day. This represents a significant reduction from 1990, when more than 35% of the global population lived in extreme poverty.

It is important to address the needs and concerns of poor communities in the context of climate change and to ensure that they have the resources and support they need to adapt to and mitigate the impacts of a changing climate.

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