In Short : This post presents a strong argument that recent clean energy, electric vehicle, and emissions trends demonstrate that substantial change is happening, despite widespread pessimism that climate initiatives are futile.
Assessing Energy Development Beyond the Known
Fossil fuels still provide about 80% of the world’s energy, which critics frequently cite as evidence of little progress. This number is closer to 68% when secondary energy—the useable energy we actually use—is taken into account. This more accurately represents efficiency improvements and the move to renewable energy sources. Significantly, it is anticipated that wind and solar power would supply more than 90% of the increase in the world’s electricity consumption in 2025, and that renewable energy will soon surpass coal in terms of total output.
Changes in Mobility and Emissions Worldwide
China, the biggest carbon emitter in the world, has made a significant change by lowering the proportion of coal used to generate power from 73% in 2016 to 51% in 2025, marking the first time that emissions have decreased year over year. In the meantime, the automotive transition is speeding up; sales of electric vehicles have increased from less than 1% to more than 20% of worldwide auto sales, while sales of internal combustion engine (ICE) cars have decreased from a peak in 2016.
There is still urgency, but optimism is warranted.
Despite alarming evidence of increasing temperature and climate harm, it is evident that climate action is both necessary and feasible. The response highlights that ignoring efforts as pointless merely demotivates and misleads; in order to remain inspired and productive, we must recognize our progress.
Impact and Significance of Clean Energy
This argument supports the revolutionary potential of clean energy systems, as evidenced by the observable outcomes of better infrastructure, EV uptake, and efficient renewable energy. Acknowledging these developments contributes to dispelling the notion that climate solutions don’t work. Rather, they are steadily changing social norms and energy systems, moving us closer to a low-carbon, sustainable future.
