A fossil fuel at the center of energy policy and climate debate
Global fossil-fuel emissions are projected to flatline in 2026, with declines in oil use and stronger growth in renewables offsetting supply-side shocks. The Global Carbon Budget notes a near-term budget of about 150 billion tonnes, while two-thirds of energy demand growth is met by solar, wind and EVs. Deforestation and land-use changes temper the trend.
A MAHA-backed letter to Trump, Kennedy and cabinet officials has voiced health-first concerns about coal-powered data centers and urged a shift toward solar, geothermal, and efficiency. The move signals growing friction between MAHA activists and the administration as data centers draw increasing scrutiny.
Copernicus confirms August 2026 tied for hottest month on record, with Western Europe enjoying its warmest summer. Global oceans reach new highs as El Niño intensifies. Scientists warn that emissions continue to drive extreme conditions and urge rapid action.
Bloomberg reports that the Trump administration has rolled back climate data and tools from federal websites as part of a broader deregulatory push, potentially increasing corporate and research uncertainty about environmental risks. The move follows earlier steps to reduce protections for water bodies and emissions rules, and experts warn the changes will erode decision-making resources for businesses and policymakers.
The Environmental Protection Agency has repealed most of the Biden-era carbon-pollution standards for power plants and is proposing to eliminate remaining greenhouse-gas rules for the sector. The agency argues the rules exceed its authority under the Clean Air Act and would not meaningfully curb emissions. The move follows a broader push by the Trump administration to unleash American energy and roll back climate regulations.
The EPA has rolled back 2024 carbon-pollution standards for power plants, arguing a non-endangerment stance and seeking to ease industry regulation. The move follows a broader pattern of deregulatory climate steps and faces criticism over health, cost, and long-term emissions impacts.
A White House-backed set of trade commitments aims to thaw tensions with China, lowering some tariffs for both sides and promising greater cooperation on goods, agriculture, and certain industries. Details remain uneven, with questions over rare earths and enforceability.
Senators have reached a bipartisan deal to streamline federal energy permitting, accelerating infrastructure projects while preserving environmental safeguards. The measure would require large data centers to cover transmission costs and would overhaul major environmental reviews. Supporters say the pact unlocks faster, cheaper energy expansion; opponents warn of concessions to fossil interests. The White House backs quick passage as midterms loom.
Turkey unveils a $500 billion energy plan ahead of COP31, aiming to electrify its economy by 2040 and cut coal reliance, while keeping security of supply. The plan foresees a quadrupling of wind/solar and a shift toward nuclear, with steep investment and questions about a timely coal exit.