August’s positive climate news

China’s Dachen Island, the country’s first zero-carbon community, has fully transitioned to renewable energy, with wind power driving everything from cooking to transportation. Located off Taizhou City, it is now a model of sustainable living. The island features 32 electric-powered homestays, with energy costs reduced by nearly 20%. Visitors can earn rewards for eco-friendly actions, such as using electric buses which run on local wind power. This transformation, backed by Taizhou Power Supply Company, showcases how a community can achieve carbon neutrality. Dachen sets an example for other regions and supports China’s broader climate goals of carbon neutrality by 2060.

German retailer Rewe Group has set a target to make 60% of its sales plant-based by 2035 as part of its new protein strategy. The company, which already generates 54% of sales from vegan products, calls for a national protein roadmap to increase the supply of alternative proteins. Rewe’s strategy includes product optimisation, support for food tech startups and clear labelling to promote sustainable diets. The company also advocates for simplified regulation and subsidies for plant protein production. Rewe’s initiative reflects growing climate ambitions among EU retailers, including Lidl and Ahold Delhaize.

Pittsburgh-based Ecotone Renewables has developed technology that converts food waste into fertiliser while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Its ZEUS Biodigester system processes 10 tons of food waste annually per unit, turning it into "Soil Sauce," a liquid fertiliser that improves plant growth by 30%. The process also captures methane, converting it into renewable energy. Installed at locations like the University of Pittsburgh, the system prevents 120 tons of CO2 emissions annually. The fertiliser is carbon-negative, helping reduce landfill methane emissions. Ecotone's goal is to prevent 1 billion metric tons of CO2 over the next decade, promoting local sustainability.

Switzerland is testing solar train tracks that generate clean energy. A pilot project in Buttes features solar panels installed between the rails, producing up to 16,000 kWh annually - enough to power four to six homes. Developed by Sun-Ways, this system uses existing railway infrastructure, reducing land use and installation costs. The panels are removable, allowing for easy maintenance without disrupting train service. If scaled across Switzerland’s rail network, it could generate enough energy to power 300,000 homes. The Swiss government is testing the system for three years to assess its feasibility, with potential for global expansion in countries like South Korea and Japan.