Sustainability by numbers

Sustainability by numbers explores environmental solutions through a data-driven lens, covering energy efficiency, renewable resources, and the transition to low-carbon technologies. It addresses climate change impacts, the benefits of electric vehicles, and the efficiency of meat substitutes, advocating for an evidence-based approach to environmental sustainability.

Environmental Sustainability Renewable Energy Electric Vehicles Energy Efficiency Climate Change Agricultural Practices Low-Carbon Technologies

The hottest Substack posts of Sustainability by numbers

And their main takeaways

What do Americans use electricity for?

75 implied HN points • 19 Mar 24
🔬 Science Energy Electricity Renewable Energy Data Analysis
  1. American households primarily use electricity for heating, cooling, and controlling humidity.
  2. Future challenges in energy demand will revolve around balancing supply and demand, particularly for temperature control like heating and cooling.
  3. Electricity consumption is dominated by heating, cooling, and humidity control in households, highlighting the importance of efficient solutions in this area.
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Are meat substitutes really better for the environment than meat?

180 implied HN points • 28 Nov 22
  1. Meat substitutes generally have a lower carbon footprint than meat, especially beef and lamb.
  2. Meat substitutes are also more environmentally friendly compared to meat from the US or Europe.
  3. Companies should provide transparent environmental data to support claims about the benefits of meat substitutes.

Welcome to 'Sustainability by numbers'

150 implied HN points • 20 Nov 22
  1. Sustainability by numbers focuses on using data and research to build a sustainable world.
  2. The approach is inspired by David MacKay's book 'Sustainable Energy - Without the Hot Air.'
  3. Clear communication of data and research is crucial for understanding and promoting sustainability.

Eating local is still not a good way to reduce the carbon footprint of your diet

140 implied HN points • 05 Dec 22
  1. The type of food you eat matters more for your carbon footprint than where it comes from.
  2. Transport is a small part of food emissions, with international shipping being more carbon-efficient than trucks and planes.
  3. The recent study overestimates food transport emissions and 'eating locally' isn't an effective way to reduce carbon footprint.

Global per capita CO₂ emissions have (still) peaked

100 implied HN points • 20 Nov 22
  1. Global per capita CO2 emissions have already peaked, probably around a decade ago.
  2. A peak in per capita emissions signals that a peak in total emissions is on its way.
  3. The decrease in per capita emissions indicates progress in living with fewer emissions, but faster action is still needed to reduce total emissions.