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LOW-CARBON technologies that are smaller scale, more affordable and can be mass deployed are more likely to enable a faster transition to net-zero emissions, according to a new study led by University of East Anglia. Innovations ranging from solar panels to electric bikes also have lower investment risks, greater potential for improvement in both cost and performance, and more scope...

A RADICAL overhaul of food policy in Wales is needed to secure the health and well-being of its people and the economy, academics conclude. The research, from Cardiff University’s Sustainable Places Research Institute and commissioned by WWF Cymru, calls for the creation of an 'integrated, sustainable and just food system fit for future generations.' According to the report, a new food...

A NEW round of funding has been launched for an urban tree-planting scheme highlights 'upholding the nation's commitment to the environment' amidst the coronavirus pandemic. The Forestry Commission has opened round two of their Urban Tree Challenge Fund, where community and volunteer groups, town councils and individuals can apply for a share of the £10million pot with small-scale planting projects. Launched...

A NEW policy insight by the think tank Green Alliance says that the integrity of current carbon offset schemes is questionable and the only way to ensure the quality and claims of offset schemes is through a national ‘office for carbon removal’. The study highlights that well run offset schemes could provide the UK with a huge new source of funding...

MINISTER for the Economy has thanked workers across the energy sector in Northern Ireland for continuing to deliver for the community throughout the coronavirus pandemic. Minister Diane Dodds addressed the industry in her speech on 1 April, stating: “Northern Ireland’s energy workers are part of the unseen workforce at the frontline in this crisis. "Turning on the heating, flicking a light...

ONE of the first research projects aimed at gauging the UK public’s attitude and responses to the coronavirus pandemic is being launched. Experts at Cardiff University and Cardiff Metropolitan University are urging people from across the UK to take part in a survey to assess how people feel about - and how they are responding to - one of the...

THE OIL industry is 'in the midst of a historic meltdown' amid the coronavirus pandemic regards to prices and demand for oil, gas and related products. After pointing out last week that it is as possible for Brent prices to briefly go to $10 per barrel as it was back in 1986 or 1998, JCB energy stated on 30 March:...

WE are about to start our second weekend in lockdown and you might find it hard to find new activities without leaving the house. Last week we introduced some zoos that have livestream cameras in their enclosures so you can admire some of the most amazing examples of the animal kingdom from the comfort of your home. This weekend, how about...

LOCAL generators on the west coast of Scotland will have the opportunity to contribute to delivering a low-carbon, smarter energy system as SSEN seeks flexibility providers to support the electricity network in the north of Scotland. Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) has identified five areas on the west coast which will benefit from smarter solutions – known as flexible...

IF coronavirus containment measures continue to curtail movement of goods and people through Q2 this year, the market impact could cut Wood Mackenzie’s 2020 global energy storage deployments forecast by 19%. Alongside an economic downturn, this would equate to a 3 GWh reduction over the year. However, this would still make 2020 a record-breaking year with 12.6 GWh deployed. Wood Mackenzie’s early...