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Rethinking Recycling: How Localized Plastic Upcycling Can Secure Raw Materials for Industry

The slogan ‘best out of waste’ is now turning into reality through localized plastic upcycling, specifically converting waste plastic into polymer that can be turned into yarn. This provides a promising strategy for securing raw materials in manufacturing. This model, exemplified by EndOfWaste, involves processing plastic waste near production facilities to create “yarn-ready” polymers. This approach tackles the inefficiency of traditional long-haul recycling and offers manufacturers a reliable, eco-conscious supply of raw materials. It also helps address the global plastic recycling shortfall, which remains under 9%, while reducing dependency on virgin feedstocks

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5 Reasons Companies Are Adding Renewable Energy Credits to Their Net-Zero Emissions Programs

Companies are increasingly incorporating Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) into their net-zero emissions strategies for several key reasons. RECs help align clean energy use with real-time operations, enabling more accurate and credible sustainability claims. They support the infrastructure behind renewable energy markets and offer companies a flexible yet impactful way to reduce Scope 2 emissions. By investing in RECs, organizations not only meet environmental goals but also contribute to the growth of clean energy generation. Overall, RECs serve as a practical and verifiable tool in the transition toward net-zero emissions.

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Air Quality Worsens Despite China’s Renewable Energy Boom

Despite significant investments in renewable energy, China’s air quality has deteriorated in several northern cities. As of March 2025, 11 major urban centers reported PM2.5 levels exceeding national safety standards. While solar power generation increased by 30.8% and coal usage declined by 3.3%, these improvements have not translated into better air quality. Experts attribute this to factors such as industrial emissions, vehicular pollution, and the continued reliance on coal-fired power plants. Additionally, challenges in integrating renewable energy into the existing grid infrastructure have limited its effectiveness in reducing pollution. This situation underscores the need for comprehensive strategies that address not only energy production but also broader environmental and infrastructural issues.

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How Training in Green Skills Could Help Turn The Tide Against Plastic Pollution

UNEP, in partnership with regional universities, is training students in green skills to fight plastic pollution. The program promotes a circular economy by teaching sustainable practices and waste reduction. By integrating these concepts into academic curricula, it aims to build a workforce ready to support eco-friendly industries. This effort is part of the broader “Green Jobs for Youth Pact” to boost sustainable employment in Latin America and the Caribbean.

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Rwanda Sweet Solution For Adapting To Climate Change

In Rwanda’s Ngororero district, a UNEP-supported initiative is aiding farmers in adapting to climate change through sustainable beekeeping. By adopting modern hives and planting trees, they have expanded their operation from 20 to 200 hives, enhancing honey production and income. This approach not only provides economic benefits but also restores ecosystems, mitigates climate impacts, and exemplifies how nature-based solutions can foster resilience and livelihoods in vulnerable communities

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How data is helping cities counter plastic pollution

Cities like Lagos are using data to tackle plastic pollution, supported by UNEP and UN-Habitat. A waste audit showed each resident generates around 34 kg of plastic waste yearly, much of it polluting waterways. This led to a 2024 ban on single-use polystyrene containers. Tools like the Waste Wise Cities Tool help cities assess and manage waste more effectively, enabling smarter policies and investments to reduce plastic pollution.

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