Has 2024 bought climate progress or climate doom?

Achievements in renewable energy

2024 has brought some notable progress in sustainability, but the sobering reality of climate change remains. As we inch closer to climate tipping points, both technological advancements and global policies have shown promise, but they also reveal how much more needs to be done. Here’s a look at the biggest achievements in sustainability this year, as well as the hurdles that remain.

1. A global peak in carbon emissions—but far from the finish line

For the first time since the industrial era, global energy-related emissions are expected to reach a peak in 2024. This development is attributed to several factors, including plunging solar and battery costs, which have made renewable energy more accessible than ever. Solar installations, for example, increased by 80% over the past year, and electric vehicle (EV) sales grew by 50%, particularly in China, which accounted for 63% of new EV purchases globally​.

However, this peak only scratches the surface of the problem. DNV’s 2024 Energy Transition Outlook projects that emissions will decline by about 50% by 2050, which still falls short of the reductions needed to meet the Paris Agreement targets. The world remains on a trajectory to experience a 2.2°C increase in global temperatures by the end of the century—a level associated with severe risks to ecosystems and human communities​

2. Renewable energy expansion driven by falling costs

The affordability of clean energy has significantly improved, spurring an unprecedented expansion in renewable capacity. Costs for solar technology decreased by 14% over the past year, enabling record growth in renewable infrastructure.

Yet, global energy demand continues to rise, particularly in developing regions where economic growth and urbanization are driving up consumption. This increased demand means that renewable energy will need to grow even faster to offset fossil fuel use fully. If the current pace holds, fossil fuels may still account for a substantial share of energy use in certain sectors, especially where clean energy integration faces logistical or economic challenges.

3. Corporate commitments to sustainability

Corporations worldwide are stepping up with bold sustainability goals. Many have announced initiatives to reduce their environmental impact by cutting packaging waste, moving toward renewable energy, and creating sustainable supply chains. However, concerns about greenwashing persist. Some companies face criticism for overstating their sustainability efforts, as corporate disclosures often lack the transparency needed to verify real impacts. Stronger regulatory frameworks may be necessary to ensure companies genuinely follow through on their pledges​.

4. Electric vehicles enter the mainstream, but barriers remain

In 2024, electric vehicles gained a solid foothold in the consumer market, with sales outpacing traditional gasoline cars in multiple regions. Governments in the U.S., Europe, and parts of Asia have expanded EV infrastructure, and new battery technology has improved EV range and reduced charging times.

Nevertheless, barriers remain, especially in less accessible regions. The environmental impact of battery production and recycling also raises concerns, highlighting the need for sustainable sourcing and recycling systems for battery materials. Without such infrastructure, the long-term impact of the EV revolution may fall short of sustainability goals​

5. Agricultural innovations and persistent land use challenges

Sustainable agriculture continues to advance, with regenerative farming and vertical farming gaining popularity. These practices help reduce carbon emissions by improving soil health and reducing the need for pesticides. In urban centres, vertical farms are increasingly feeding populations with minimal land use and water.

However, high demand for land-intensive food products, such as meat, and population growth complicate these gains. Deforestation remains a significant issue in many regions, undercutting the benefits of sustainable farming by releasing large amounts of carbon. Achieving a fully sustainable agricultural sector will require broader changes in land management and dietary patterns worldwide​

6. Reducing plastic waste but facing an uphill battle

In response to growing concerns about plastic pollution, more countries enacted bans on single-use plastics in 2024, and businesses adopted alternatives such as biodegradable and compostable materials. Despite these efforts, global plastic production continues to increase, and recycling rates remain low, particularly for difficult-to-recycle plastics. Public campaigns and consumer pressure have spurred some positive change, but experts warn that a global shift in both production and disposal systems is needed to tackle plastic pollution on a large scale​.

7. Climate resilience projects: A critical investment for vulnerable regions

Vulnerable communities face the brunt of climate-related disasters, and resilience projects have become essential. In flood-prone areas, new infrastructure such as flood barriers and reforestation projects are helping communities better withstand storms and rising sea levels. However, funding shortfalls mean that many regions are still unprepared for the intensifying impacts of climate change, from droughts to wildfires.

These projects underscore the importance of resilience as part of a comprehensive sustainability approach, but the limited resources available mean that global assistance will be essential to protect these communities effectively​

A mixed year: Progress and persistent risks

The sustainability achievements of 2024 highlight that while we’re making strides, the gap between progress and need remains vast. With energy emissions reaching their likely peak, renewable energy expanding, and corporate pledges increasing, it’s clear that some momentum is building. However, emissions reductions are insufficient, plastic pollution is rising, and challenges persist in areas like energy demand, agriculture, and climate resilience.

These achievements are reasons to be hopeful, but they also underscore the need for accelerated action. As we head into 2025, intensifying these efforts will be crucial to building a truly sustainable future.