Geothermal energy has supplied less than 1% of the world’s electricity to date, largely because it could only be accessed in a handful of locations around the globe. But a new generation of geothermal technologies could tap into Earth's heat energy nearly anywhere, potentially unleashing massive amounts of clean power worldwide. 

Many see next-generation geothermal as a promising path to a zero-carbon power grid. It’s a clean, cost-effective way to fill supply gaps when solar and wind aren’t available. But with a heavy reliance on drilling, it will also be critical to avoid potential environmental risks. 

Our experts break down how these new technologies work, why they’re so promising and how the U.S. can quickly and safely scale up this emerging industry.  

We now know that 2024 was the hottest year on record and the first to break 1.5 degrees C (2.7 degrees F) of temperature rise on average, temporarily surpassing the limit meant to avert the worst climate change impacts. But what happens if temperatures rise by 3 degrees C (5.4 degrees F), as they may do this century? WRI experts explain what that could mean for life in cities around the globe. 

Forests can affect urban life more than most people realize, from cleaning the air to safeguarding food and water supplies, even if they are far from city limits. Yet forests continue to disappear at an alarming rate. WRI experts explain why forests are essential to people everywhere — and what steps we can take to protect them. 

In the U.S. Pacific Northwest, Native American communities are helping manage local waterways to revive dwindling salmon populations. In New Zealand, Indonesia and Australia, Indigenous groups are bolstering ocean management through a wealth of traditional knowledge. But with threats to waterways and the people who depend on them rising, examples like these are still too few and far between. 

Recent innovations in geothermal energy technology are expanding its potential and lowering costs. In the U.S., next-generation geothermal will likely be most affordable in the West thanks to its favorable geology; but some Eastern regions show promise, too.