Researchers developed a porous silicon dioxide coating for solar panels that improves light transmission to 91% while enhancing heat dissipation through infrared emissivity. The team plans outdoor testing to evaluate scalability and durability for commercial applications.
Angola contains significantly more peatland than previously documented, according to new research mapping the Angolan Highlands Water Tower. These peatlands play a crucial role in storing and regulating freshwater across central Angola.
Southeast and East Asia harbor more threatened oak species than any other region globally. A new report highlights the dire conservation status of oaks in the region despite the area's fame for other tree species.
Communities globally are implementing local solutions to address climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution through practical action and traditional knowledge. A Mongabay special issue documents grassroots adaptation efforts and community-driven environmental initiatives.
IEA PVPS Task 12 released a major update to photovoltaic life cycle assessment data covering modern silicon supply chains, CdTe modules, and balance-of-system components. The comprehensive baseline, based on 83 factory datasets, will improve sustainability reporting and environmental assessments for solar technologies.
UNSW and DAS Solar identified optimal cutting techniques for back-contact TOPCon solar cells to reduce efficiency losses. Gap-region cutting reduces losses by 50% compared to emitter-region cutting, with a recommended 0.3mm gap width.
BYD launches 4.8 kWp solar kits in Brazil through 233 dealerships, offering complete packages with installation and insurance. The kits use locally manufactured modules and are available to all consumers regardless of vehicle ownership.
Comprehensive system testing across solar project operational stages is essential to identify electrical, structural, and communication faults. Proactive testing prevents safety risks, costly downtime, and lost energy revenue for long-term performance.
Nepal's government has authorized hydropower projects in protected areas despite a Supreme Court order forbidding such development. A Mongabay investigation reveals the government is exploiting legal grey areas to allow private producers to operate in conservation zones.
A study published in Science finds that China's solar expansion policies have negatively impacted bird diversity across the country. The research highlights environmental tradeoffs in large-scale solar development and suggests policy improvements.
Inside Climate News · Aug 20, 2026 · relevance 7/10
Illinois is adopting virtual power plants through Solrite Energy, offering households battery storage for $20 monthly while supporting grid stability. The program demonstrates immediate benefits of distributed energy resources in managing electricity demand.
Inside Climate News · Aug 20, 2026 · relevance 7/10
Invasive axis deer populations in Hawaii are damaging native ecosystems by overgrazing endangered plants. A local company is addressing the problem by harvesting the deer for food.
Scientists test whether adding alkalis to seawater can help absorb more CO2 while studying impacts on shellfish like lobsters. Trump administration funding cuts threaten to halt this ocean acidification research.
Chris Packham argues that invertebrates are essential to ecosystems and deserve greater appreciation beyond their typical dismissal as pests. He advocates for broader awareness of invertebrates' ecological importance and beauty.
Tesla announced it will reveal European specifications and launch details for its Semi electric truck at IAA Transportation in Hannover, Germany next month. A vehicle will be on display at the continent's largest commercial vehicle show.
Colorado's largest electric school bus fleet installed a 26-plug charging hub to support its 28 buses on daily routes. The infrastructure upgrade enables the fleet to maintain operational readiness.
Illinois homeowners can now access rooftop solar installations paired with 60-kWh home batteries through a zero-down financing program. The equipment requires a payment plan rather than being free.
California advances solar legislation to support balcony solar, community solar, and virtual power plants after net metering policy changes slowed growth. The state aims to regain its position as a solar power leader.
Proposed data centers in Alabama could consume more electricity than all homes in the state combined, raising concerns about costs and environmental impact. Analysis questions who will bear the financial burden of powering these facilities.
Inside Climate News · Aug 19, 2026 · relevance 7/10
A London pollution reduction scheme improved lung growth in children, according to new research. The program successfully cut car emissions and demonstrated measurable health benefits for young residents.
Yale Environment 360 · Aug 19, 2026 · relevance 7/10
California becomes the first US state to mandate energy-efficient replacement tires, aiming to reduce emissions and fuel costs while blocking older tire sales. The regulation faces conservative opposition amid broader Trump administration efforts to challenge California's environmental policies.
A North American river otter was photographed in the Bronx River for the first time in over 100 years, captured by a motion-activated camera in early June. The sighting indicates recovery of New York's previously polluted waterways and improving ecological health.
The US Forest Service faces a critical firefighter shortage as wildfires escalate across the country, with staff describing being pushed to their limits despite official claims of a stronger workforce. Anonymous firefighters report key leadership roles remain unfilled.
Reform UK deputy leader Richard Tice dismisses climate crisis concerns, suggesting inaction and acceptance of extreme heat. Columnist Larry Elliott argues this stance is economically and environmentally dangerous, citing real harms like wildfires and crop damage.
Portland International Airport installed an overhead ChargePoint fast charging system that can charge up to 20 rental EVs simultaneously without using ground space. The technology represents an innovative approach to expanding EV charging infrastructure at commercial facilities.