The 2015 Paris Agreement’s goal of limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees C (2.7 degrees F) almost died on arrival. At the time, the world relied heavily on coal, the most polluting fossil fuel. With 1,496 gigawatts (GW) of new coal in development, global coal capacity was set to almost double. 

However, since 2015, the amount of coal power in development has dropped to 578 GW, with 56% of all new coal plants canceled or suspended as of 2023. But the slowdown in coal power growth is not enough. The world must phase out coal entirely by 2040, canceling all coal plants in development and retiring existing plants. WRI experts profile three countries that took measures to shrink their coal project pipelines. Read more.

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The 2024 Summer Olympics open next week in Paris, France. All eyes are on the city while it prepares to host the Games, along with the millions of spectators and athletes that will shortly flood its streets. Fortunately, Paris may be uniquely set up to accommodate the crowds: Thanks to its "15-minute-city” program, communities are now designed with more walkways, bike paths and public transport, making for a less polluted and more accessible city. Read more.

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New data from the Copernicus Climate Change Service confirms that June 2024 marks 12 consecutive months where global temperatures exceeded 1.5 degrees C (2.7 degrees F) above pre-Industrial levels, the threshold scientists say is necessary to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. If this temperature target is overshot, ecosystems, communities and livelihoods will suffer. Some already are. Read more.

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By now, it’s well known that meat and dairy are significant contributors to climate change. But what about so-called “sustainable” alternatives like organic and grass-fed meat? Turns out these options can lead to greater environmental impacts and higher emissions. WRI experts offer tips on navigating animal products. Read more.