The podcast explores the latest news in the warming world, including air turbulence linked to climate change and investments in renewable energy. Guests discuss the urgency for transitioning to clean energy, challenges faced by small islands, and the impact of clouds on climate. It also covers the rise in clean energy investments, turbulence incidents affecting flights, and the deployment of Earthcare satellite.
Clean energy investments have surged globally, with solar power leading the way in attracting funding.
Climate change intensifies aviation turbulence, necessitating strategies for safer air travel amidst shifting weather patterns.
Deep dives
Investment in Clean Energy Surpasses Dirty Fossil Fuels
The latest report from the International Energy Agency reveals a significant increase in investment in clean energy projects, reaching over $3 trillion worldwide. The majority of this growth is attributed to spending on clean energy technologies, particularly solar power, which has seen a substantial rise in investments, surpassing all other traditional energy sources combined. While this surge in clean energy funding is promising, challenges persist in ensuring equitable distribution of investments, especially in emerging economies where financial risks pose barriers to sustainable energy development.
Challenges and Opportunities in Clean Energy Adoption Worldwide
While China leads the way in solar energy investments, other emerging and developing economies face hurdles in attracting sufficient funding for clean energy projects. Factors such as higher financing costs and perceived risks deter significant investments in regions where energy demand is on the rise. Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach, including national policy support, international financial aid to mitigate risks, strengthening grid infrastructure, and promoting sustainable energy access in underserved communities.
Climate Change's Influence on Aviation Turbulence and Extreme Weather Events
Climate change contributes to the intensification of turbulence in aviation due to factors like clear air turbulence and increased thunderstorm activity, affecting flight safety and passenger experiences. With climate patterns shifting, the frequency and severity of extreme weather events like tropical storms are on the rise, posing risks to airline operations and passenger safety. Understanding these weather dynamics is crucial for enhancing aviation safety and implementing effective strategies to mitigate the impact of climate change on air travel.
There’s been a lot happening in our warming world and so The Climate Question is taking a break from its usual analysis to catch you up with the latest news. From worsening turbulence and plummeting planes to new rocket launches with satellites on board that hope to unlock one of the Earth’s big mysteries: clouds... and how they might impact, and be impacted, by global heating.
Plus, a look at the latest trends in clean, green energy technology. Are we investing enough in renewables to put the brakes on climate change?
Hosts Graihagh Jackson and Jordan Dunbar are joined by Tim Gould from the International Energy Agency to find out about their new World Energy Investment Report and by BBC Climate Journalist Esme Stallard to discuss worsening air turbulence and what we can do about it.
Do you have any questions or comments? Email: TheClimateQuestion@bbc.com
Show Notes: Check out Jordan’s YouTube videos, covering the climate basics here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bQYTEotCJw8&t=5s
BBC Bitesize website for kids can be found here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/articles/z2np6g8
Production Team: Octavia Woodward, Ben Cooper, Brenda Brown
Sound Engineers: Neil Churchill and Tom Brignell
Editor: Simon Watts
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