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Rapid emissions turnaround needed to keep global warming at less than 2C, report suggests

Countries are failing to take the action needed to stave off the worst effects of climate change, a UN report has found, and the commitments made in the 2015 Paris agreement will not be met unless governments introduce additional measures as a matter of urgency.

New taxes on fossil fuels, investment in clean technology and much stronger government policies to bring down emissions are likely to be necessary. Governments must also stop subsidising fossil fuels, directly and indirectly, the UN said.

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We’d like to know if you changed your opinion on climate change and whether there was a moment that convinced you of its impact

This year has seen more than 200 natural disaster events take place across the world. In February, the Beast from the East swept across Europe bringing snow and strong winds causing the UK’s worst weather in years, and in November California experienced the deadliest wildfire in the state’s history.

With a UN agency predicting a 75-80% chance of a climate-warming El Niño event next year, which could bring global droughts and floods, “there is evidence that climate change is making the effects of El Niño more severe”.

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Global efforts to tackle climate are off track says the UN, as it sees a rise in CO2 after years of decline.

Countries are going even further off track towards limiting global warming to 2C as emissions began increasing in 2017, according to a UN report that found nations must triple emissions cuts pledged under the Paris Agreement to keep within the temperature limit.

More than half of countries use censorship, harassment or violence to repress public debate, warns a report

Nearly six in 10 countries are seriously restricting people’s freedoms, according to a new report that warns of a growing repression around the world.

According to the study, there is little or no space for activism in countries such as Eritrea and Syria, and also worrying signs in countries where democracy is considered well established, such as France, the US, Hungary and India.

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A giant rhino that may have been the origin of the unicorn myth survived until about 35,000 years ago.

Alinta launches "Australia first" geothermal heating and cooling technology – focused on new suburbs and the displacement of energy intensive reverse-cycle air-conditioning.

The post Alinta turns to geothermal for sustainable heating and cooling appeared first on RenewEconomy.

Six of the most notable pure electric cars unveiled at the Guangzhou Auto Show 2018, as the Chinese auto market turns its focus to EVs.

The post Guangzhou Auto Show 2018: Top six pure electric cars appeared first on RenewEconomy.

The World Meteorological Organization says there's a 75-80% chance of the weather phenomenon forming by next February.

Natural cycle has major influence on global weather, bringing droughts and floods

There is a 75-80% chance of a climate-warming El Niño event by February, according to the latest analysis from the UN’s World Meteorological Organization.

The last El Niño event ended in 2016 and helped make that year the hottest ever recorded by adding to the heating caused by humanity’s carbon emissions. The 2019 event is not currently forecast to be as strong as in 2016.

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For the second time in two weeks, Guangdong-issued carbon offsets have sold at auction for well over 40% above secondary permit prices.

An updated list of what is available, and what will soon be available, in electric vehicles in Australia.

The post Electric vehicles: What you can buy in Australia, and at what price appeared first on RenewEconomy.

Premier Mark McGowan defies protesters, farmers and MPs to allow controversial drilling, which he says will create jobs

Western Australian premier Mark McGowan has lifted a statewide moratorium on fracking amid intense opposition from large parts of the community.

The controversial drilling practice, which fractures the ground to release trapped gas, will now be allowed on existing titles and subject to veto by Aboriginal groups and farmers.

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Traffic emissions responsible for at least €70bn damage every year, report says

Air pollution from roads causes at least €70bn (£62bn) in health damage every year in the European Union, according to a new report, with diesel fumes responsible for three-quarters of the harm.

The research, commissioned by the European Public Health Alliance (EPHA), found the vast majority of the costs were borne by taxpayers through government-funded health services. But these costs could be reduced by 80% by 2030 if ambitious action were taken, the report concluded.

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This week, school students plan to go on strike in protest against inaction on climate change. Whether you approve of the strike or not, we welcome your questions, which will be answered here by climate experts and young campaigners

5.31am GMT

A great question from Eva in year 8 at Glenunga international high school in Adelaide

What is your opinion on Australia’s role in climate change?

Australia is one of the largest exporters of coal and gas in the world, and also the windiest and sunniest continent on the planet.

This means that Australia has an incredible opportunity to lead the way when it comes to moving beyond all fossil fuels, and transitioning to 100% renewable energy.

5.22am GMT

Our first video question is from Lily.

What is one thing I can do right now as an individual to help slow down climate change?

Hi Lily,

I think that the best thing you can do right now to help slow climate change is to talk to a politician. The more they hear people telling them to take climate change seriously, the more they’ll be inclined to do something about this problem.

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Germany battery storage manufacturer says it has begun assembly of sonnenBatteries in Australia with opening of manufacturing facility in old Holden car plant in Adelaide.

The post Sonnen begins battery storage production at old Holden car factory in Adelaide appeared first on RenewEconomy.

BloombergNEF study shows new coal-fired capacity additions fell to their lowest level in over a decade, as developing nations led world in take-up of renewables.

The post Another coal myth busted as developing nations turn to renewables appeared first on RenewEconomy.

Hyundai’s first fully electric vehicle had its first test run on Australian roads today – with Queensland, the nation leader in EV policy, chosen to host the Australian launch.

The post Queensland’s electric vehicle revolution charging ahead appeared first on RenewEconomy.

Taylor promises a reprise of what the hard right does best - a carbon tax scare campaign - as Coalition loses another MP and Morrison flags early budget and a May poll.

The post Coalition digs in for another carbon tax scare campaign as May poll looms appeared first on RenewEconomy.

AusNet Services is looking to partner with local community members this summer to prevent power outages, and to help schools and community members make money at the same time.

The post Local Schools and RACV supporting AusNet Services to launch Innovative Power-saving Scheme this Summer appeared first on RenewEconomy.