As Mother Earth Day approaches on April 22nd, it's a perfect time to reflect on the incredible strides we've made in sustainability over the past decade. At BTS, we're proud to be part of this journey towards a greener, more sustainable future. Let's take a moment to celebrate some of the remarkable sustainability landmarks achieved in recent years:
Rapid Growth of Solar Energy: According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), solar photovoltaic (PV) capacity grew by over 25% globally in 2021 alone, marking a significant milestone in the expansion of solar energy. This growth trend has been consistent over the past decade, with solar becoming one of the fastest-growing renewable energy sources worldwide.
Reduction in Carbon Emissions: The transition to renewable energy sources like solar has led to substantial reductions in carbon emissions. The IEA reports that renewable energy sources contributed to a record 45% of the global electricity mix in 2020, displacing fossil fuels and helping to cut CO2 emissions by 2.6 billion tonnes.
Energy Efficiency Innovations: The Energy Efficiency Indicator (EEI) survey by Johnson Controls found that 79% of organizations globally planned to increase investment in energy efficiency in 2021. This investment has spurred innovations in smart buildings, energy-efficient appliances, and sustainable transportation solutions, driving improvements in energy conservation and environmental sustainability.
Green Building Standards: The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) reports that LEED-certified buildings have saved over 1.2 million metric tons of CO2 emissions and reduced energy use by 30% compared to conventional buildings. The adoption of green building standards has become a global trend, with countries implementing regulations and incentives to promote eco-friendly construction practices.
Renewable Energy Policies: Government policies and incentives have played a crucial role in the growth of renewable energy. For example, the Renewable Energy Target (RET) in Australia aimed to ensure that 33,000 gigawatt-hours of electricity came from renewable sources by 2020, driving investments in solar, wind, and hydroelectric projects across the country.
Circular Economy Initiatives: The Ellen MacArthur Foundation reports that circular economy initiatives could reduce global greenhouse gas emissions by 39% by 2050. Businesses and industries are increasingly adopting circular practices, such as recycling and upcycling, to minimise waste and promote resource efficiency.
Community Engagement: According to a survey by Nielsen, 73% of global consumers would be willing to change their consumption habits to reduce their environmental impact. This growing consumer awareness has led to increased demand for sustainable products and services, prompting businesses to prioritize sustainability in their operations.
Let's continue to build on these achievements and work towards a more sustainable and resilient world. At BTS, we remain dedicated to promoting renewable energy solutions that benefit both our clients and the environment. Together, we can make a positive impact and create a brighter future for all. Contact us today by calling 1300 319 419.
Resource List:
International Energy Agency (IEA) - https://www.iea.org/
Energy Efficiency Indicator (EEI) survey by Johnson Controls - https://www.johnsoncontrols.com/
U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) - https://www.usgbc.org/
Renewable Energy Target (RET) in Australia - https://cer.gov.au/
Ellen MacArthur Foundation - https://www.ellenmacarthurfoundation.org/