The Five Major Environmental Achievements of 2024

In 2024, the world saw remarkable progress in environmental sustainability and ecological preservation. These accomplishments demonstrate the combined efforts of governments, organisations, and individuals, highlighting an increasing awareness of the pressing need to tackle environmental issues. Here are the five major environmental milestones that shaped this pivotal year:

1. Global Carbon Neutrality Initiatives

In 2024, numerous countries made significant progress toward reaching carbon neutrality. Nations such as Bhutan, Sweden, Costa Rica, and New Zealand implemented comprehensive policies aimed at reducing carbon emissions to net-zero levels. This involved a combination of transitioning to renewable energy sources, enhancing energy efficiency, and promoting sustainable transportation options. The establishment of carbon trading markets and incentives for businesses to adopt greener practices further accelerated this movement. These initiatives not only contributed to a significant decline in greenhouse gas emissions but also set a precedent for other nations to follow suit, fostering a collaborative global effort toward combating climate change.

Bhutan managed to achieve carbon neutrality

2. Restoration of Biodiversity through Rewilding Projects

This year saw an unprecedented commitment to biodiversity restoration through extensive rewilding projects across various continents. Countries like the United Kingdom, South Africa, and Australia launched initiatives aimed at reintroducing native species into their natural habitats, thereby restoring ecological balance. These projects included the reintroduction of apex predators, which play a crucial role in maintaining the health of ecosystems, as well as the restoration of native flora in degraded areas. The success of these rewilding efforts not only contributed to the recovery of endangered species but also enhanced carbon sequestration capabilities of these ecosystems, illustrating the interconnectedness of biodiversity and climate health.

Rewilding the River Oder

3. Advancements in Plastic Waste Reduction Technologies

The fight against plastic pollution made remarkable progress in 2024 with the introduction of innovative technologies designed to reduce plastic waste. Breakthroughs in biodegradable materials and advanced recycling methods emerged, enabling industries to minimise their reliance on traditional plastics. Companies began adopting these eco-friendly alternatives, leading to a significant reduction in single-use plastics. Furthermore, international agreements were established to limit plastic production and promote circular economy practices, ensuring that materials are reused and recycled effectively. This collective effort not only aimed to clean up existing pollution but also sought to prevent future plastic waste from entering our oceans and ecosystems.

More still needs to be done to reduce the use of single-use plastic in South Africa

4. Expansion of Renewable Energy Infrastructure

The renewable energy sector experienced a transformative year in 2024, marked by substantial investments in solar, wind, and hydroelectric power. Governments and private enterprises collaborated to expand infrastructure, resulting in a dramatic increase in the share of renewables in the global energy mix. Technological advancements led to more efficient energy storage solutions, enabling better integration of intermittent renewable sources into the grid. This shift not only reduced dependency on fossil fuels but also created green jobs, bolstering economies while contributing to a sustainable future. The widespread adoption of renewable energy technologies signified a crucial step towards achieving energy independence and mitigating climate change.

Solar panels and wind turbines becoming more widely used

5. Enhanced Climate Education and Awareness Programs

Recognising the importance of education in fostering a sustainable future, 2024 saw a significant increase in climate education and awareness initiatives worldwide. Schools, universities, and community organisations implemented comprehensive programs aimed at educating individuals about environmental issues and sustainable practices. These initiatives included workshops, seminars, and interactive campaigns designed to engage people of all ages in discussions about climate change, conservation, and sustainable living. By empowering communities with knowledge and practical tools, these programs cultivated a generation of environmentally conscious citizens ready to take action and advocate for policies that protect the planet.

Educating the public on climate change, conservation, and sustainable living is key to the future.

Conclusion

The environmental achievements of 2024 reflect a concerted global effort to address pressing ecological issues through innovation, collaboration, and education. These milestones not only demonstrate the potential for positive change but also highlight the importance of continued commitment to sustainability in the years to come.

Unfortunately, the environment might encounter a significant challenge in 2025 and the following three years as someone in the White House is strongly against eco-friendly initiatives This political environment has resulted in a significant reversal of established environmental regulations designed to address climate change, safeguard natural resources, and encourage sustainable practices.

The administration's resistance to environmentally friendly policies will be evident through several actions, such as dismantling essential air and water quality protections, loosening regulations on greenhouse gas emissions, and favouring fossil fuel extraction over renewable energy sources. Such actions will hinder progress that has been made in recent years towards reducing carbon footprints and transitioning to cleaner energy alternatives.

This policy shift will significantly impact the environment and public health, increasing pollution-related diseases and exacerbating environmental injustice in vulnerable communities. Internationally, it may weaken global climate change efforts, reducing cooperation and commitment to sustainability. Economically, it could destabilise industries invested in green technology, stifling innovation and job creation in the green economy. In summary, the political climate from 2025 onward could challenge environmental progress, affecting public health, international relations, and economic stability, potentially reversing years of advancements in environmental protection.