Climate Tech Highlights #21

Hello, there!

Interesting news from the world of digital expression: a new climate change emoji is on its way, and it’s bound to get people talking. Soon, we’ll have a tree without leaves—an emblem of the droughts and environmental changes we’re witnessing. It may seem small, but symbols like these can help foster conversation around the growing impacts of climate change. Check them out.

Now, let’s get into the latest in climate tech!

Around the globe 🌎

• Scaling Climate Solutions with $100M Boost: Elemental Impact, formerly known as Elemental Excelerator, has announced the opening of applications for climate projects to receive investments from a $100M funding program supported by the US EPA’s Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund. This initiative will target ventures that scale greenhouse gas reductions and deliver benefits to underserved communities. Elemental Impact's platform aims to bridge gaps in climate finance and project implementation, collaborating with over 1,000 co-investors. Learn more here.

• Lithium Market Shaken by Major Mine Shutdown: An unexpected shutdown at one of China’s largest lithium mines, accounting for around 8% of global supply, has spurred hopes of stabilizing lithium prices after a dramatic 50% drop. Lithium, essential for electric vehicle batteries, has been facing an oversupply. This closure could rebalance the market, though analysts remain cautious about the lasting impact. Get the details here.

• 10 Tech Trends Revolutionizing Climate Intelligence: Earth observation technologies are transforming how we understand climate dynamics, with trends like advanced satellite sensors, AI-driven data processing, and digital twins enabling faster and more precise climate insights. A new report by the World Economic Forum and MIT Media Lab outlines how these tools are turning massive datasets into actionable solutions for disaster response and environmental monitoring. Explore these trends here.

A glance at Brazil 🇧🇷

• Brazil Showcases Climate Solutions, Eyes Global Leadership: Amid the fires clouding much of Brazil, the Brazil Climate Summit 2024 in New York focused on the nation’s potential as a climate solution hub. Clean energy, biofuels, and forest restoration were at the forefront of discussions, with participants highlighting Brazil’s competitive edge in sustainable technologies. As Brazil prepares to lead COP30, a Boston Consulting Group report revealed the country's potential to attract $3 trillion in private investments for emissions reduction. While the country’s environmental assets are clear, experts noted that stronger legislation and investment incentives are needed to secure its leadership in the global energy transition. Read more

• INPE’s Fire Data Platform and Real-Time Monitoring: As wildfires rage across Brazil, the National Institute for Space Research’s (INPE) BDQueimadas platform has become a crucial tool for tracking fire outbreaks. Updated every 10 minutes, the system provides real-time satellite data on fire locations, weather risks, and burned areas. Authorities are using the data to combat illegal fires in key ecosystems like the Pantanal and Cerrado. The platform’s extensive archives, dating back to 1998, also allow for comparative analysis, helping to map the progression of deforestation and identify long-term trends in environmental damage. Read more

Don't miss out! 👀

• Global Energy Perspective 2024: McKinsey has released its latest report, Global Energy Perspective 2024, offering a roadmap for navigating the future of energy. This document outlines strategies for transitioning to a sustainable energy landscape, making it a relevant reading for those interested in climate solutions.

• CTVC X NYCW Event Tracker: For those attending the New York Climate Week, check this event tracker! Designed for climate tech founders, funders, and supporters, this resource helps you find and connect with key players in the industry, enabling you to strategize and collaborate amidst the dynamic landscape of climate innovation.

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