BMW’s Mini cars to go all-electric from 2030
Bavarian carmaker BMW, owner of the iconic Mini range since 1994, plans solely electric versions from 2030, reported Der Spiegel magazine on Friday.
Europe
This archive covers progress stories from across Europe, spanning the U.K., Scandinavia, the E.U. and beyond. Readers will find reporting on health, climate policy, social welfare, science and more — drawn from nearly 1,200 articles tracking real gains made by communities, governments and researchers throughout the region.
Wales make Black history courses mandatory in school curricula
Wales has recently announced that all school children in the country will have to take mandatory courses about racism and the contributions of Black, Asian, and minority ethnic (BAME) communities to Welsh society.
U.K. is now halfway toward meeting its zero-carbon goal by 2050
Indeed, last year’s carbon emissions in the U.K. were at their lowest levels since 1879, during the reign of Queen Victoria. And on a per capita basis, the the nation’s carbon emissions last year were as low as in 1853, Carbon Brief said.
Athens is tackling urban air pollution and heat stress with “pocket parks”
In an effort to curb air pollution from vehicles — which are responsible for 70 percent of greenhouse gas emissions — the city is now closing traffic lanes and transforming them into bicycle paths, pedestrian walks, and small areas of greenery. It is also renovating fountains which can lower temperatures and improve air quality,
U.K. government launches new £150 million fund for rainforest protection
Through the new program, the U.K. government plans to invest £150 million for businesses and investors focused on sustainable land-use projects.
U.K. citizens get the right to repair
For the first time, manufacturers will be legally required to make spare parts available so that consumers can make repairs at home; hence, the nickname “right to repair law.”
Romania orders 123 electric buses
Seven Romanian cities and towns will receive the 131 zero-emission e-buses. The total value of the contract is almost €65 million.
Aviva becomes world’s first major insurer to target net-zero carbon emissions
“It won’t be easy to do, but we’re determined to take bold steps to help tackle the climate crisis,” the company said in a press release. The plan is for Aviva to be net-zero carbon by 2040.
Volvo is going fully electric by 2030
The Swedish automaker will also be phasing out leather interiors as well to meet its sustainability goals.
Honda, Yamaha, KTM, and Piaggio team up in swappable battery consortium
Four major manufacturers have committed to developing a standardized swappable battery system for electric motorcycles, opening up the possibility of quick-swap battery banks at service stations, servicing a range of brands and models.