2024 in Sustainability: 12 Wins That Made Us Smile This Year!
As we close the year, it's time to look back and celebrate the stories that gave us hope in 2024. Here are 12 positive sustainability wins from around the world that reminded us: change is possible (and sometimes, even fun)!
1. Freedom from Fossil Power ??
Wind and solar electricity hit an all-time high in 2024, making fossil fuels feel like the outdated VHS tapes of energy. Renewable energy is no longer "alternative"—it's the main act!
2. Goodbye, Coal ??
The UK bid farewell to its last coal mine, officially closing the chapter on its coal-powered past. A major milestone toward a low-emission future!
3. Nature: The Artist ??
This year, Nature officially became a Spotify artist, with streams funding conservation efforts. Now you can support the planet just by listening to rain sounds on repeat. Talk about a win-win!
4. Euro 2024 Goals ???
UEFA Euro 2024 set a new standard for sustainability in sports, guided by a €29.6m investment and a data-driven approach. By reducing air travel by 75% and cutting waste by 36% compared to Euro 2016, the tournament made good progress in reducing its environmental footprint.
5. The Ozone Hole is Healing ??
Remember the scary ozone layer hole? It's continuing to shrink and could recover completely by 2066. Sometimes, the good news takes its time—but it’s worth the wait!
6. Portugal’s Power Move ?
Portugal is smashing records, with renewables meeting 95% of its electricity needs. Europe, take note—this is how it’s done!
7. The Premier League Kicks Off Sustainability Goals ???
The Premier League has mandated all clubs to adopt sustainability policies by 2024-2025, appoint senior sustainability leaders, and track greenhouse gas emissions by 2025-2026. These steps aim to unify and enhance efforts to reduce football’s environmental impact—an overdue but promising move forward.
8. Norway’s Forest Boom ??
Norway’s forests have tripled in size over the past 100 years. Sustainable forestry FTW, helping fight climate change and boosting biodiversity.
9. Mental Health Matters ??
The UK launched a 24/7 mental health crisis line, making support accessible around the clock. A big win for compassionate care.
10. Oceans Under Protection ??
Australia is now protecting 52% of its oceans—more than any other country. The marine world is a little safer, though penguins and seals are asking for even more sanctuaries.
11. A Buzzing Comeback ??
Hobbyist beekeepers in the U.S. have achieved an incredible feat, reversing the country’s critical bee shortage in just five years. Thanks to their efforts, bee colonies are now thriving at record levels, highlighting the power of grassroots action in supporting pollinators and protecting ecosystems.
12. Amazon Deforestation Hits a 9-Year Low ??
Brazil reported its lowest Amazon deforestation rates in almost a decade. A major step in preserving the lungs of our planet.
Each of these stories reminds us that progress—while not always fast—is real, impactful, and worth celebrating.
Which of these wins (or perhaps any that we missed) inspired you the most in 2024? Share your thoughts below. We’d love to hear how you’re planning to make an impact in 2025!