There’s a growing reality check about how we’re tackling the climate crisis. Despite global efforts, many countries and companies still fall short of the targets set in the 2015 Paris Agreement. If we don’t change course soon, the consequences could be severe. With political shifts, like Donald Trump’s resurgence, it feels even harder to spark the urgency we need.
But it’s not all doom and gloom. There’s a narrative saying that renewable energy is failing against fossil fuels. This idea, pushed by some political figures and supported by the fossil fuel industry, paints a bleak picture of zero-emission targets. In Australia, this argument influences debates over setting ambitious emissions goals.
However, the truth is more nuanced. Here are some key points to consider when you hear that climate action is futile.
Clean Energy is On the Rise
Some analysts claim that fossil fuels have barely budged in the global energy supply over the past decades, providing around 80% of energy now compared to 85% in 1990. It sounds disheartening. But Michael Liebreich, founder of Bloomberg New Energy Finance, argues that this perspective misses an essential point.
The numbers often reflect primary energy — raw forms like coal or oil. But what’s more important is secondary energy, which is usable energy, like electricity. The fossil fuel process loses a lot of energy in conversion. If we focus on this, fossil fuels actually account for about 68% of the energy we use today.
While this is still too high, it’s expected to drop. The International Energy Agency (IEA) predicts that solar and wind will meet over 90% of the global increase in electricity demand this year alone. Solar and wind energy generation is projected to rise by 25%, and the IEA suggests that renewables could exceed coal output by 2025 or 2026.
China’s Shifting Landscape
China, as the world’s largest CO2 emitter, presents a complex story. It still heavily relies on coal, but its share has decreased from 73% in 2016 to 51% in 2024. A significant milestone occurred when China’s emissions fell for the first time this year, dropping by 1% in the first quarter. This change highlights a turning point in their energy strategy, especially as they prepare for their new five-year development plan.
The Rise of Electric Vehicles
On the transportation front, the decline in sales of internal combustion engines is notable. In 2016, around 80 million of these cars were sold compared to just 62 million last year, a 23% drop. Meanwhile, electric and plug-in hybrid sales soared to 17.5 million from only 780,000 in 2016. Now, more than one in five cars sold globally is an electric vehicle. Despite challenges in the market, primarily in the U.S., countries like China continue to embrace electric cars, accounting for over 60% of global EV sales.
Still Much Work Ahead
It’s crucial to recognize the challenges that lie ahead. Global warming persists, with temperatures in 2024 averaging 1.25°C higher than preindustrial levels. Extreme weather events are intensifying, leading to economic and environmental damage. Governments need to acknowledge this and respond effectively.
Despite the uphill battle, it’s important not to fall into the trap of thinking that climate action is pointless. Real progress is being made, even if the journey is long and complex.
