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Every year here at Essel Environment, we devote some time to look at pertinent environmental as well as ecological trends that we face in our global society. Some of these trends, such as climate change, are perennial and are very familiar; other trends, however, are relatively obscure, known primarily by researchers, academicians, or specialists in that field. Now that 2020 is well underway, we have compiled a list of 8 major environmental and ecological trends that we believe people keep a close eye on and pay careful attention to.
1) INCREASE IN RENEWABLE ENERGY SOURCES
Over the past several years, there has been a fierce feud between advocates for renewable energy sources such as wind and solar, and traditional energy sources such as coal. However, the use of renewable energy sources has been gaining in popularity over the past several years; in 2019, renewable energy sources surpassed coal as a source of electrical energy here in the United States. This trend is expected to continue significantly in 2020 as the costs of renewables decrease and become more affordable for businesses and individuals.
2) REDUCTION IN ENERGY CONSUMPTION
The demand for energy is projected to decrease in 2020 as less energy is used by individuals. As individuals become more environmentally conscious, they look for ways to curb their use of energy. This may involve significant changes in lifestyle so that less energy is utilized. Another tactic that will be used to reduce energy consumption is to switch to alternative renewable sources of energy like wind, water, and solar.
3) REGENERATIVE AGRICULTURE
Regenerative agriculture is a farming strategy that prioritizes soil health, land management, and biodiversity during the cultivation and harvesting of food products. With regenerative agriculture, deliberate practices are put into practice that minimizes the loss of necessary soil nutrients and minerals, thereby preserving the life of the soil; foods grown in these environments are termed “Regenerative Organic” products. This trend is expected to grow in 2020 as more farmers become vested in maintaining soil health and vitality.
4) RELATIONSHIP TO PLASTIC
Most people are already familiar with the dangers of plastic such as the effect on sea pollution and difficulties in plastic breakdown. As a result of these dangers, over the past several years there has been an increase in plastic recycling as well as the use of more biodegradable products. This trend towards greater plastic recycling and the use of biodegradable products is slated to further increase in 2020; this is especially the case as companies are making increasing efforts to recycle their plastics for reuse.
5) HUMAN WASTE MANAGEMENT
Over 2.4 billion people worldwide engage in poor hygiene and sanitary practices as a result of poor or lack of sanitation facilities. As a result, these individuals are prone to a whole host of water-borne illnesses, especially diarrhea-related deaths in children. However, due to a greater awareness of these health hazards, measures have been implemented to provide adequate sanitation facilities for these at-risk individuals; these measures are expected to increase in 2020 as more innovative solutions are developed and implemented.
6) ACCELERATED CLIMATE ACTION
As the effects of climate change become more apparent and devastating, individuals and corporations are increasingly stepping up to take action to further halt, or even reverse, the damages that have already taken place. Previously established global partnerships and alliances are expected to work together in 2020 to develop and implement strategies to protect ecosystems and decarbonize the economy.
7) IMPACT OF CEMENT
Unknown to many, cement is a significant source of the world’s carbon emissions, accounting for about eight percent of the world’s total. As such, efforts are being made to curb carbon emissions from cement. Research is currently underway regarding new techniques and raw materials that can be used in making cement more eco-friendly by reducing the levels of carbon emitted.
8) AIR TRAVEL AND CLIMATE CHANGE
Air travel is a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions that are harmful to the environment; it contributes about 2.5 percent of global carbon emissions. Given this grim statistic, research is underway to make aviation more energy efficient as well as eco-friendly. Though far from complete, strides have been made in using biofuels as an alternative fuel source. Additionally, research is ongoing in the development of electrical and solar-powered planes.
At Essel Environmental, we work with clients to ensure that the impact of their businesses on the environment is as minimal as possible. We also perform environmental inspections to ensure that our clients are compliant with prevalent environmental regulations. Contact us today for more information about 2020’s environmental and ecological trends and our services that will help you and your commercial properties evolve.