1. Global Temperature Rise Exceeds 1.5°C Threshold
April 2025 marked the 21st month in the last 22 where global average surface air temperature exceeded 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. The 12-month period from May 2024 to April 2025 was 1.58°C above pre-industrial levels, signaling continued warming.Links: Copernicus Climate Change Service
2. US Weather Service Foreign Language Forecasts Halted
The National Weather Service (NWS) ended its contract with a translation company, leaving millions in the US without weather forecasts in their native languages.Links: Earth.Org
3. Clean Energy Powers 40% of Global Electricity
A new report indicated that clean energy sources powered over 40% of global electricity in 2024, driven primarily by the rapid expansion of solar power.Links: Opportunity Green, Primo Natura
4. South Korea Wildfires
Summary: Wildfires in South Korea became the largest on record, with officials attributing the severity to ultra-dry conditions indicative of the escalating climate crisis.Links: The Guardian
5. Potential Economic Impact of Global Warming
Summary: Analysis suggests that global warming exceeding 3°C this century could wipe out 40% of the world's economy, emphasizing the urgent need for climate action.Links: The Conversation
6. Microplastics in Plant Leaves
A study revealed widespread absorption of airborne microplastics by plant leaves, indicating a potential pathway for microplastics to enter the food chain.Links: Northern Ireland Environment Link
7. EU Delays Sustainability Reporting Deadlines
The EU decided to postpone the implementation timelines for the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), offering businesses more time to prepare.Links: TripShift
8. Global Action on Plastic Pollution
The Global Plastic Action Partnership is uniting governments, businesses, and civil society to combat plastic pollution. In Ghana, waste pickers are making a significant impact cleaning up beaches and other sites.Links: World Economic Forum
9. Positive News from the Clean Energy Sector
There were reports of a new method for recycling wind turbine blades, creating stronger plastics, and news that clean energy sources met more than 40% of the world's electricity demand last year.Links: Primo Natura
10. Green Initiatives in Bristol
Summary: Bristol saw climate change protests and celebrations, including the release of a doctor imprisoned for climate activism and local Earth Day events.Links: Bristol 24/7