The year 2023 was a difficult one for the environment. We witnessed devastating floods, record breaking temperatures, heatwaves, and out of control wildfires. Yet, even after these challenges, there were also signs that humanity is finally understanding the urgency of the climate crisis.

Investment in renewable energy sources

In 2023, an increase in investment in renewable energy sources were put in. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), global renewable energy capacity additions reached a new record. This shift away from fossil fuels is important for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate change.

The Inflation Reduction Act

the Inflation Reduction Act in which the IRA provided billions of dollars in tax credits and incentives for clean energy technologies, electric vehicles, and enforcing measures for energy efficiency. The goal for this bill is to reduce carbon emissions by 40% by 2030. According to the White House government, The Inflation Reduction Act creates good-paying jobs that will help reduce emissions across every sector of the economy.

Increase in green technology

Green technology is the use of science and technology that encourage and create eco-friendly services that protect the environment. In 2020, the significant increase in green technology means more clean energy production, use of alternative fuels, and technologies that are less harmful to the environment compared to fossil fuels and could be very effective for the future.

UBC researchers discovered how to filter microplastics from water

According to the University of B.C, researchers have discovered how they can filter microplastics from water with biodegradable products. The scientists at UBC discovered that if they added natural plant mixtures such as tannins, bark, and wood dust, they were able to filter out almost all microplastics from water.