The hottest Sustainability Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways

Battery Component Price Report: October 2024

Intercalation Station • 59 implied HN points • 02 Nov 24

LFP battery prices are still under $50 per kWh. This means it’s a good time for consumers looking for affordable energy solutions.
The report tracks battery component prices every month. Following the trends can help understand the market better.
Subscribing gives access to exclusive updates and resources. It's a way to stay informed about changes in the battery industry.

Chain Reaction

Doomberg • 6659 implied HN points • 10 Jun 25

🌞 Climate & Environment Energy Policy Nuclear Energy Environmental Impact Sustainability Technological Innovation

Nuclear energy has produced a massive amount of clean electricity over the years, showcasing its potential as a stable and affordable energy source.
Germany's decision to abandon its nuclear power plants is now seen as a mistake, and there's hope they will shift their stance to support nuclear energy in the future.
Many countries in Europe are starting to rethink their approach to nuclear energy, which might lead to a resurgence in its use to help combat climate change.

Battery production is genuinely difficult

Intercalation Station • 99 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24

🕹 Technology Battery tech Manufacturing Sustainability Electric Vehicles Innovation

Making batteries is really hard. Even small mistakes can lead to big problems and waste.
Northvolt faced issues with unrealistic goals and timelines from its management, leading to disorganization and challenges in their production process.
Quality control and procurement problems contributed to the company's struggles, highlighting a need for clear communication and better management practices.

Climate superpowers

The Crucial Years • 1036 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25

🌞 Climate & Environment Climate change Activism Environmental justice Sustainability Policy

One way to inspire others for climate action is through music. Antonique Smith's new version of 'Love Song to the Earth' aims to unite people and inspire hope.
Jessie Diggins uses her platform as a champion skier to advocate for climate change awareness. She believes athletes can lead conversations about protecting the planet.
Connecting climate change to everyday lives is crucial. People need to understand how pollution affects their health and environment, especially in communities of color.

Paid content: Parables for pruning an apple tree

Wood From Eden • 336 implied HN points • 28 Feb 25

🍲 Food & Drink Gardening Sustainability Cooking Agriculture

Pruning an apple tree is important for its health and growth. It helps the tree produce better fruit and stay strong.
There are techniques to prune effectively that can improve the overall structure of the tree. Learning these can make caring for a tree easier.
Knowing when and how to prune is key to successful gardening. Timing your pruning can lead to the best results for your apple tree.

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“Recycling” Makes Plastic Pollution Worse

Stark Realities with Brian McGlinchey • 2047 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25

🌞 Climate & Environment Pollution Recycling Environmental Policy Sustainability

Most plastic items that go into recycling bins don’t actually get recycled. Only a few types of plastic are from beverage bottles and jugs are commonly recycled.
The recycling system often misleads people into believing they are helping the environment. In reality, many plastics end up in landfills or are even shipped to other countries, causing pollution.
While plastic has many benefits, it’s important to rethink its use. Alternatives may not always be better, so focusing on reducing plastic waste is the best way forward.

We can terraform the Earth—not just Mars

The Novelleist • 380 implied HN points • 11 Jun 25

🌞 Climate & Environment Sustainability Geoengineering Climate change Ecosystems

We have the technology and creativity to improve our planet, not just Mars. Projects like reforesting deserts are proof that we can restore ecosystems and make uninhabitable areas livable.
Innovations in geoengineering allow us to control weather and climate. This means we can potentially cool down our planet, make it rain where needed, and reduce the effects of climate change.
By shifting away from livestock farming and using plant-based alternatives, we can free up land for other uses. This could allow us to create new forests, cities, and renewable energy sources.

Hysteresis: The Reason Wood Movement Ain’t Such a Big Deal

The American Peasant • 2335 implied HN points • 20 Oct 24

🪑 Design Furniture Craftsmanship Woodworking Sustainability Materials

Wood can swell and shrink, but it often moves less than expected due to something called hysteresis. This means you might worry too much about how much your wood will move.
Using flexible glues and ductile nails can help furniture withstand wood movement over time. These materials allow parts to adjust without falling apart.
Many traditional furniture designs were made with wood movement in mind. This means older pieces often handle changes in humidity better than you might think.

Hits and Misses

The Honest Broker Newsletter • 1599 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25

🌞 Climate & Environment Energy Policy Sustainability Renewable Energy Global trends

IEA scenarios are not predictions but imaginative sequences that help envision possible futures. They aim to guide policy but vary in how closely they match reality.
Outlook scenarios from the IEA have performed better than normative ones, showing a steady rise in global energy demand instead of a decline.
There are big gaps between IEA projections for solar and nuclear energy and real-world outcomes, highlighting the need for better understanding and scenario evaluation.

The Super Rich Know We're Doomed

OK Doomer • 253 implied HN points • 26 Feb 25

🌞 Climate & Environment Climate change Environmental Policy Sustainability Global Warming Resource Management

The super rich seem to know there's no bright future ahead for humanity. They are enjoying their last years on Earth while ignoring promises of a sustainable future.
Many wealthy individuals are preparing for disaster, like building doomsday bunkers, which shows they aren't worried about the same issues the public face.
There's a sense that leaders and elites are acting without consequences, showing little regard for the impacts of climate change and environmental destruction.

Solving for Climate: the podcast is back

Sustainability by numbers • 188 implied HN points • 25 Feb 25

🌞 Climate & Environment Climate change Sustainability Environmental Policy Climate Science Agriculture

The podcast 'Solving for Climate' is starting its second season, focusing on conversations with experts who are working on climate change solutions.
Reading can help us understand important topics, like the impacts of climate change and our agricultural practices, through different perspectives and stories.
Generational differences in views about climate change may be overstated, and it's important to recognize common ground instead of blaming each other.

The Burning Truth: Climate Change’s Burning Impact on Global Crops

Adetokunbo Sees • 208 implied HN points • 22 Feb 25

🌞 Climate & Environment Climate change Agriculture Food security Sustainability Environmental Impact

Climate change is causing significant price increases for crops like cocoa, coffee, and mango, impacting food costs around the world.
Many crops are suffering from rising temperatures, with some regions losing suitable land for growing key crops like coffee and cocoa.
To cope with climate change, farmers need to adapt their methods, such as using crop diversification and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

From Idealism to Realism

The Honest Broker Newsletter • 4357 implied HN points • 13 Jan 25

🌞 Climate & Environment Climate Science Geopolitics Environmental Policy Sustainability Crisis Management

Geopolitics often influences climate policies more than climate science itself. Countries prioritize their own interests over global climate agreements.
The belief that scientific knowledge would automatically lead to climate action has proven overly optimistic. Many expected that understanding climate issues would unite nations, but it hasn't happened.
Adapting to climate change is a slow process. The world will continue to gradually change, but there won't be a simple or happy resolution to the challenges posed by a warming planet.

For reality

The Crucial Years • 3976 implied HN points • 19 Jan 25

🌞 Climate & Environment Climate change Environmental Policy Climate justice Sustainability

The climate crisis is worsening, with record-high carbon dioxide levels reported. It's a serious issue that we need to pay attention to because it affects our planet and future.
Power is being prioritized over justice in today's political climate. This shift can lead to misinformation and further environmental harm, especially regarding the ongoing climate crisis.
Clean energy solutions like solar and wind are ready to help us combat climate change. We need to focus on these technologies to build a sustainable future.

The Secret Behind Europe's Outsized Influence in Climate Science and Policy

The Honest Broker Newsletter • 3287 implied HN points • 04 Jan 25

🌞 Climate & Environment Climate Science Policy Influence Sustainability Energy Sources

A study shows that most climate scenarios used in global reports come from Europe. This means European views and ideas shape how we think about climate change.
Integrated Assessment Models (IAMs) are important tools in climate science, but they can reflect the biases and values of their developers. This could lead to skewed perceptions of energy sources like renewables compared to nuclear.
The global efforts in climate modeling may not consider the needs of developing countries as much. Scenarios are often influenced by wealthy nations and may overlook how different regions approach climate solutions.

Paid content: Against vacuum cleaning

Wood From Eden • 336 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25

🕹 Technology Consumer Tech Innovation Sustainability

Technology isn't just about smartphones; we should think about other gadgets too. Getting rid of more tech can help simplify our lives.
Vacuum cleaning might not be the best choice for keeping our spaces tidy. There are other, simpler methods to clean without using machines.
It's good to question the tools we use daily. Sometimes, going back to basics can be healthier and more efficient.

Do US states with more renewable energy have more expensive electricity?

Sustainability by numbers • 316 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25

🌞 Climate & Environment Renewable Energy Sustainability Energy Sources Environmental Policy

Having more renewable energy sources like solar and wind doesn't always mean higher electricity costs. Some states with a lot of renewables actually have lower prices.
Electricity prices vary widely between states due to many factors, not just the types of energy used. Things like distribution costs and market design play big roles.
Tracking electricity prices over time can show the impact of renewable energy. Some states see lower prices with more renewables, while others may see prices rise.

The Plastic Beat: A Climate Change Angle

Adetokunbo Sees • 208 implied HN points • 08 Feb 25

🌞 Climate & Environment Climate change Pollution Sustainability Ecosystems Health

Microplastics are found in many parts of the human body, including the brain, blood, and lungs, which raises health concerns.
Humans are ingesting and inhaling more microplastics than ever, often through food and air, making it a growing issue.
The presence of microplastics in marine life is disrupting ecosystems and potentially contributing to climate change, highlighting the need for better solutions.

How To Break Up With Your Toxic Acid

Intercalation Station • 59 implied HN points • 23 Oct 24

🕹 Technology Chemistry Batteries Sustainability Manufacturing Innovation

Fluorine plays a big role in making lithium-ion batteries better. It's important for key parts like the electrolyte salt that helps the battery work efficiently.
Hydrogen fluoride is super toxic and can cause serious harm on contact. Finding safer ways to handle fluorine is crucial for both workers and the environment.
FluoRok, a new company, is working to make fluorination safer and more sustainable. They aim to provide a better way to create essential materials without the risks associated with traditional processes.

Global Shield Briefing (23 October 2024)

Global Shield's Newsletter • 59 implied HN points • 23 Oct 24

🌞 Climate & Environment Climate change Environmental Policy Global Risks Sustainability

Many countries are focusing on improving civil defense. This means everyone from the government to local communities needs to work together to be prepared for emergencies.
Climate change is making existing global threats worse. Problems like pandemics and geopolitical tensions are now linked to changes in the climate.
People need to listen actively to warnings about risks. If the audience isn't ready or willing to hear these messages, the warnings may not help at all.

State-by-state electricity mixes and prices in the United States

Sustainability by numbers • 279 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25

🌞 Climate & Environment Sustainability Energy Electricity Policy Data

There are interactive slide decks available that show how electricity sources and prices vary across different states in the US. This makes it easy for people to understand where their electricity comes from.
The slide decks get updated with new data to reflect changes in energy policy and the electricity market over time. It's helpful for anyone interested in seeing the latest trends and figures.
Users can freely explore the data on electricity mixes and prices without needing permission, promoting accessibility and awareness about energy consumption.

The World of Graphite

Intercalation Station • 139 implied HN points • 16 Oct 24

🕹 Technology Materials science Energy Storage Supply Chain Geopolitics Sustainability

Graphite is a key material for batteries, especially in electric vehicles, and there's been a shift from natural to synthetic graphite due to supply risks.
China dominates the graphite supply, which creates concerns about over-reliance and geopolitical tensions, leading to increased global interest in local production.
Synthetic graphite can be made from waste materials and has the potential to reduce environmental impacts if produced using renewable energy sources.

Why Techno-Optimism Alone Fails

Anima Mundi • 20 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25

🕹 Technology Innovation Society Sustainability Capitalism Systems Thinking

Techno-optimism believes technology alone can solve big problems, but real solutions need deep changes in how we think about society and progress. Simply having more tech doesn't guarantee a better future.
Silicon Valley often looks for quick fixes to complicated issues, but many problems require a smarter, more thoughtful approach rather than just engineering solutions and fast growth.
Technology should aim to help everyone, not just the wealthy. We need a fair system that shares resources and gives everyone access to the tools they need for a better life.

Seventh Plan’s the Charm

Doomberg • 6232 implied HN points • 11 Jan 25

🌞 Climate & Environment Energy Policy Nuclear Energy Sustainability Climate change International Collaboration

Japan relies heavily on imports for its energy needs, which makes having a strong energy plan very important for the country. They need reliable and cheap energy to stay competitive in the global economy.
After the Fukushima disaster in 2011, Japan's use of nuclear energy dropped significantly, but there are now efforts to reopen some reactors. This shift back to nuclear energy is seen as crucial for Japan's energy strategy.
The upcoming Seventh Strategic Energy Plan will outline Japan’s energy goals for the next few years. This plan will impact investments and the country's approach to energy efficiency and renewable sources.

NEW PAPER: All Excess Emissions must be Removed

Marginal Carbon • 138 implied HN points • 14 Oct 24

🌞 Climate & Environment Climate Policy Carbon Emissions Environmental Science Sustainability Global Warming

Countries with a history of high carbon emissions have run out of their fair share of carbon budget. They keep adding to their carbon debt with every new emission.
To keep temperatures safe, all emissions beyond what's allowed must be removed. This means we need to deal with past, present, and future excess emissions.
While cutting emissions is the main goal, some emissions are better dealt with using carbon removal strategies, called 'CDR-optimal' emissions.

Energy Realism and Climate Pragmatism at the Department of Energy

The Honest Broker Newsletter • 2100 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24

🌞 Climate & Environment Climate change Energy Policy Sustainability Environmental Science Public Policy

Chris Wright believes in energy realism, recognizing that climate change is real but not the only pressing issue we face. He argues we should address various global problems, not just focus on climate.
Wright supports practical solutions for climate change, like improving energy technology that is affordable and reliable. He thinks we need to balance climate goals with the benefits of fossil fuels.
The Department of Energy plays a key role in advancing energy science and policies. Wright's leadership could help promote effective energy strategies that might appeal to both environmental and economic concerns.

Want to Grow Your Own Food During The Apocalypse? Sound like Fun?

OK Doomer • 139 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25

🍲 Food & Drink Gardening Sustainability Food production

Many people think they can't grow food, but that's not true. With persistence and experience, anyone can start a garden.
Starting a garden helps with sustainability and can lower grocery bills. Even city dwellers can grow food in small spaces.
The real challenge often comes from local rules and the opinions of others. It's important to start now and gain experience, even if it feels tough.

Reading List for 11/9/24

Construction Physics • 2087 implied HN points • 09 Nov 24

🕹 Technology Construction Infrastructure Sustainability Data Centers Monitoring

Using drones and AI to monitor construction sites can help identify issues and improve efficiency. This tech can make construction safer and more effective.
Microsoft's plan for mass-timber data centers is an attempt to cut carbon emissions, but energy use for operating them has a much bigger carbon footprint than the building materials.
The trend of smaller windows in buildings to save energy might not be the best solution. It's better to focus on creating more clean energy rather than limiting our energy use too much.

My Back Pages: Stranded Assets and Our Climate Future

God's Spies by Thomas Neuburger • 40 implied HN points • 03 Jun 25

🌞 Climate & Environment Climate change Sustainability Environmental Policy Fossil fuels Energy transition

It's important not to overcomplicate solutions with too many strict requirements. Keeping it simple can help in finding effective answers.
Voter control over political parties is crucial. If voters don't guide the system, they might need to start their own candidates.
To tackle climate issues, we should work backward from our goals, like aiming for zero fossil fuel use by 2050, and think of necessary steps to achieve that.

🌾 Can we feed the future?

Faster, Please! • 456 implied HN points • 13 Jan 25

🍲 Food & Drink Agriculture Sustainability Technology Global Issues Nutrition

Farmers have made great progress in feeding a growing population, moving from three billion to eight billion people over the last 60 years. This was thanks to better technology and more farmland.
Even with this success, experts worry that factors like climate change, crop diseases, and lack of investment in farming tech could hurt future food production. There's a lot at stake for the world's food supply.
To continue improving food production, we need to embrace technology and find ways to share it better, especially in less developed areas. Innovations can help us meet the needs of a future population that could exceed nine billion.

How much food did the world produce in 2024?

Sustainability by numbers • 379 implied HN points • 14 Jan 25

🍲 Food & Drink Food production Agriculture Sustainability Global trends

In 2024, global food production of staple crops like rice, wheat, and soybeans is expected to hit record highs. This is good news as it means more food is available.
While some crops like corn may not reach last year's records, overall yields for most staples are strong. This shows that farming practices are improving.
Other crops like cocoa and coffee have mixed results; cocoa production has dropped while coffee is nearly at record levels. It highlights how different crops respond differently to growing conditions.

How many people died in disasters in 2024?

Sustainability by numbers • 211 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25

🌞 Climate & Environment Disasters Sustainability Data Analysis Public Health Environmental Impact

In 2024, fewer people died from disasters compared to previous years, thanks to fewer major earthquakes. The estimate was around 9,500 deaths, which is low compared to the high averages from past years.
Floods, wildfires, and storms were the main causes of deaths in 2024. Many fatalities came from extreme weather events, particularly flooding in Africa and wildfires in South America.
It's important to note that data on disaster deaths is often incomplete, especially for temperature-related deaths. Researchers have to estimate these numbers, leading to less reliable statistics overall.

All Their Stupid Ideas Can be Reversed and We Will Make the Deserts Bloom

Welcome to Absurdistan • 7311 implied HN points • 27 Jan 24

🌞 Climate & Environment Sustainability Food Systems Climate solutions Environmental Activism

Human desires drive the economy, and marketing determines our choices.
A shift towards traditional, healthy foods like full-fat dairy and grass-fed beef is happening despite mainstream trends.
Soil restoration using cattle can help make deserts bloom and revitalize the earth.

Solar Panels for Collapse, Are They Worth It? Here's an Honest Answer.

OK Doomer • 114 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25

🌞 Climate & Environment Sustainability Energy Disaster Community Property

Installing solar panels can be a smart move during power outages or natural disasters. They helped one family during a tornado, allowing them to stay in their home instead of facing a difficult situation.
While solar panels can add value to a home and provide energy security, they also come with risks. It's important to consider whether they are truly worth the investment based on individual needs and local conditions.
Finding scalable and adaptable solutions, rather than just relying on expensive setups, is key. Community support and cheaper options may be more beneficial in the long run.

Chewing the cud could sink the planet

The Global Jigsaw • 119 implied HN points • 04 Oct 24

🌞 Climate & Environment Climate change Sustainability Agriculture Food Systems

Raising cows and sheep produces a lot of methane, which is a major contributor to climate change. This is because methane is released when these animals digest their food and is much worse for the planet than carbon dioxide.
Livestock generates 18% of global greenhouse gas emissions, which is even more than the transport sector. This includes not just the methane from their digestion, but also emissions from raising feed and pasture.
A Japanese seaweed startup has found a way to cut methane emissions from cows by adding a specific type of red algae to their feed. This could reduce their methane output by more than 90%.

📉 Well, they ran the numbers on degrowth — and it's not good

Faster, Please! • 1279 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24

🌞 Climate & Environment Sustainability Degrowth Ecology Consumption

Degrowth means living better with less stuff, focusing more on well-being than just economic growth. It suggests we should intentionally reduce production and consumption to fit within our planet's limits.
However, following the degrowth idea doesn't guarantee a perfect, eco-friendly world. It might not look like a dreamy utopia where nature and humanity perfectly blend together.
Research shows that reducing consumption to meet basic needs is challenging and requires significant changes in how we live. Simply downsizing isn't easy and can have complex implications.

A Thing to Think About That Isn't That Thing

The Crucial Years • 1275 implied HN points • 04 Nov 24

🌞 Climate & Environment Renewable Energy Climate Policy Environmental Activism Sustainability

Balcony solar panels are a convenient and popular way for apartment dwellers to harness solar energy in Germany. These small solar setups are easy to install and can power small appliances, promoting energy independence.
The U.S. has stricter regulations regarding solar installations, making it difficult for similar plug-and-play systems to thrive. This contrasts with Europe, where regulations are often more relaxed, leading to faster adoption of such technologies.
Balcony solar systems are a part of a larger trend in renewable energy. This small yet meaningful step represents a growing movement toward sustainable living and empowerment in combating climate change.

Take the Under

The Honest Broker Newsletter • 1334 implied HN points • 28 Oct 24

🌞 Climate & Environment Climate change Population Growth Economic projections Policy Analysis Sustainability

Recent projections show that the global population could peak earlier and lower than previously thought, which could lead to reduced carbon emissions.
Using more realistic estimates for population and economic growth can suggest that climate change might be less severe than some models predict.
Climate policies should be based on updated data and current realities, not outdated assumptions, to effectively address climate change.

Rivian's CEO on Elon's Influence, The Plan For Profitability, And The Grid’s Risky Future

Big Technology • 750 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24

🕹 Technology Electric Vehicles Sustainability Innovation Manufacturing Energy Policy

Rivian wants to make electric cars appealing to everyone, not just one type of buyer. They're focused on inviting all people into the electrification movement and fostering a diverse community of users.
The company is dealing with challenges in becoming profitable while also launching new vehicles. They're now working on lowering costs and improving supply chains to achieve positive cash flow.
Rivian believes that moving away from fossil fuels is essential for the future. They see a big responsibility in transitioning to renewable energy and are committed to creating products that contribute to this change.

Sustainable Software, can you do something?

Cloud native with Saiyam • 39 implied HN points • 15 Oct 24

🕹 Technology Software AI Sustainability Infrastructure

Cloud Native Sustainability Week is a global event focusing on making technology practices more sustainable. It encourages everyone to join discussions and learn about sustainable software integration.
You can contribute to sustainable software efforts by participating in working groups and exploring specific technologies like Kubernetes. There are many projects people can join to help the cause.
Upcoming events like KubeCon NA provide opportunities to learn about the latest tools in cloud-native landscapes. Attending talks and meetups can deepen your understanding and involvement in sustainability efforts.