Brazil’s solar capacity expected increase by 358% in 2018
Brazil now has 320 MW of distributed solar generation, a sector which grew 270% in 2016, 304% in 2017, and is expected to increase by 358% in 2018.
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Maryland becomes 11th state to ban ‘gay conversion therapy’ for minors
Maryland Gov. Lawrence J. Hogan, a Republican, signed the Youth Mental Health Protection Act into law on Tuesday, making the state the 11th to ban gay conversion therapy for minors.
Seattle passes new tax on city’s biggest companies to combat housing crisis
The tax will raise $45 million a year over the five-year life of the tax to build more affordable housing and support services for the homeless.
Church of Ireland to end investments in fossil fuel companies
The Church of Ireland has voted to exclude fully companies with a turnover of greater than 10 percent from fossil fuel production, by 2022.
Lloyds Bank launches £2bn green business lending drive
The company said its aim is to deliver the “most inclusive” green funding in the market, providing businesses with discounted lending to help them invest in measures that curb environmental impacts and boost productivity.
Boko Haram has been routed from the 24 local areas in Nigeria they used to administer
Boko Haram, and by extension ISIS/ISIL, has been routed from the 24 local areas in Nigeria they used to administer. Bolstered by international assistance, the Nigerian army has led this regional fight against terrorism.
Costa Rica to ban fossil fuels and become world’s first decarbonised society
New president embraces ‘titanic and beautiful task’ of complete renewable energy transition.
London Mayor Sadiq Khan plans for city to go ‘zero carbon’ by 2050
The strategy, first released for consultation last summer, envisions London becoming a ‘zero carbon’ city by mid-century, boasting cleaner air and more green space.
Pakistan passes historic transgender rights bill
The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act allows people to choose their gender and to have that identity recognized on official documents, including national IDs, passports and driver’s licenses.
California becomes first state to order solar on new homes
Most new units built after Jan. 1, 2020, will be required to include solar systems as part of the standards adopted by the California Energy Commission.