Neptune Robotics, a Hong Kong-based startup, is deploying waterproof robots to clean ship hulls, reducing biofouling and improving fuel efficiency, thereby aiding in maritime decarbonization. The maritime industry, responsible for significant carbon emissions, is under pressure from the International Maritime Organization to reduce its climate impact. Neptune's robots, which are now operational in over 50 ports in Hong Kong and mainland China, use AI and cavitation cleaning to remove biofouling, which can increase emissions by up to 30%. The company has cleaned over 700 vessels since 2020, avoiding approximately 1 million tons of CO2 emissions. Other companies like Jotun A/S and Hullbot are also using robots for similar purposes. The technology is gaining traction due to regulatory pressures and the potential for fuel savings, with Neptune planning to expand to Singapore and continuing to innovate at its R&D center in Shenzhen.

The video game industry, valued at $200 billion, presents an opportunity for climate education and action. The United Nations has partnered with gaming companies to promote environmental themes through initiatives like the Green Game Jam. Research from Yale University indicates that games can influence players' awareness and actions regarding climate change. Deborah Mensah-Bonsu, founder of Games for Good, discusses the potential of games to foster empathy and perseverance for a better future, drawing on her experience at Xbox and Space Ape Games. She emphasizes the importance of fun in games to engage players in environmental issues and provides advice on reducing the carbon footprint of gaming.

Approximately 85% of a wind turbine's components can be recycled at the end of its life cycle, but the fiberglass blades pose a significant challenge due to their lack of metals and minerals and the epoxy resins coating, which makes them hard to crush. Consequently, most retired turbine blades are either incinerated or sent to landfills.

Electric car batteries, such as those in Teslas, are affected by outdoor temperatures, with both heat waves and cold spells impacting their lithium-ion batteries' charging capacity and range. Hans Guo experienced this when his Tesla stopped despite showing remaining range, leading to a tow.

Wind turbine blades are being repurposed into park benches and picnic tables by Canvus, an Ohio-based company. As wind turbines from the early 2000s reach the end of their lifespan, the challenge of recycling the blades, which are difficult to crush due to their epoxy resin coating and fiberglass composition, is growing. Europe is expected to phase out 25,000 metric tons of blades annually by 2025. Canvus, which started in 2021, has developed a range of products from decommissioned blades and sells them to corporate clients who donate them to public spaces. The company also charges for blade disposal. While turbine manufacturers are working on recyclable blades, Canvus's upcycling approach offers an immediate solution. However, the long-term viability of such businesses is uncertain due to the potential for extended turbine lifespans and the development of recyclable blades.

Apple's iPhone 15 Pro has a reduced carbon footprint compared to previous models, with a 30% reduction from a baseline and the use of 100% recycled materials in certain components. However, experts argue that while recycling is beneficial, extending the lifespan of devices through repair is more crucial for environmental impact. Apple's production accounts for 80% of an iPhone's lifecycle emissions, and the company has been criticized for not making iPhones easier to repair. Apple has made some efforts towards sustainability, such as investing in renewable energy and aiming for carbon neutrality by 2030. Despite these efforts, the increase in total sales could negate per-device emission savings. The article suggests that the most sustainable option is to continue using existing devices longer.

In Kathmandu, Nepal, electric vehicles, particularly battery-powered autorickshaws, are gaining popularity as a means to combat pollution and reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels. Despite Nepal's low economic output, over 100,000 commuters use these autorickshaws daily. Local businesses and organizations like Winrock International are advocating for electric vehicles, which align with Nepal's hydroelectric power resources. The transition began in the 1990s with the conversion of diesel rickshaws to electric ones, leading to the growth of an indigenous electric vehicle industry. However, the industry faced setbacks due to government policies favoring diesel vehicles. Innovative solutions, such as employing women drivers, have helped revitalize the electric vehicle sector. Entrepreneurs are now working on importing parts to assemble electric minibuses and promoting electric cars like the Indian-made REVA, despite challenges like frequent power blackouts in Kathmandu.

Singapore, a wealthy island nation, is facing scrutiny for its climate change policies. Despite being a top oil refining center with companies like BP, Shell, and Exxon Mobil contributing to its high per capita income, Singapore's leaders are not planning to restrict the energy and chemicals industry. Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong has expressed support for the industry while acknowledging the need to reduce emissions. Under the UN climate change agreement, Singapore is exempt from mandatory emissions cuts, but with a new accord approaching, the country faces pressure to act. Singapore has pledged to reduce emissions intensity by 2030, but critics deem the efforts inadequate. The country's reliance on oil refining and lack of alternative energy sources pose challenges to significant climate action. Singapore's policies also influence regional climate strategies, and its role in international negotiations is seen as a bridge between developed and developing nations.

The article discusses the expansion of coal-to-liquids projects in China, focusing on companies like Yankuang Group, which is investing heavily in this technology despite environmental concerns and market challenges. Chinese coal companies are diversifying into coal-to-liquids due to shrinking profits in traditional coal businesses. The process is water-intensive and contributes to CO2 emissions, raising concerns about its sustainability. However, proponents argue that carbon capture and water-saving technologies can mitigate these issues. The Chinese government is considering reducing its 2020 development target for coal conversion projects, which may impact the industry's growth. The article also touches on the economic aspects, noting that profitability is sensitive to oil prices, and the industry's future is uncertain if oil prices remain low.

The article discusses the shift in energy conservation efforts among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in China, particularly in the textile industry. Previously resistant to energy-saving practices, SMEs are now adopting them due to the economic slowdown in China, which has forced factories to cut costs. Energy bills constitute a significant portion of production costs, and reducing these expenses has become a priority. The article highlights the experiences of Lu Shuhang from ZJG Addchance Dyeing & Finishing Co. Ltd. and Gan Weiming from Shaoxing Changsheng Thread MFG Co. Ltd., who have implemented energy-saving measures in their factories. While large companies have made progress in energy efficiency, SMEs are now seen as crucial in the fight against pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. However, challenges such as lack of government subsidies, difficulty in obtaining loans, and falling energy prices may hinder some SMEs from pursuing energy efficiency improvements.

China's economic growth has slowed to its lowest rate in 25 years, which has inadvertently led to a decrease in carbon dioxide emissions due to reduced manufacturing and coal consumption, alongside increased renewable energy installations. Greenpeace's analysis suggests a 3 percent drop in emissions in 2015, with similar findings from other experts. China's coal output and imports have fallen, and investment in clean energy has reached new heights. However, the accuracy of China's official data is questioned, with past revisions indicating underestimation of coal use. Despite data quality issues, the trend towards reduced emissions appears reliable, and China's progress may influence other countries' climate change efforts. The article is reprinted from Climatewire with permission from Environment & Energy Publishing, LLC.