Climate Change Solutions Update

Author: Cleantechnica

  • How To Use Up Nuclear Waste Generating Electricity

    The article discusses a method developed by CERN in the late 1980s/early 1990s to generate electricity using radioactive materials in an Accelerator Driven System (ADS) reactor. This process transmutes radioactive substances into mostly inert waste, reducing the need for long-term storage of nuclear waste. The ADS reactor could potentially use materials like thorium, unenriched uranium, or nuclear waste dissolved in liquid heavy metals to produce electricity for over 500 years. With the development of a particle accelerator by Jefferson Lab, accelerator driven systems may become more feasible, offering a sustainable solution for managing nuclear waste and potentially making conventional nuclear power obsolete.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/02/24/how-to-use-up-nuclear-waste-generating-electricity/

  • Donut Lab Meant What They Said About That New EV Battery

    Donut Lab has developed a new solid-state EV battery with fast charging, high energy density, and improved safety features, set to be showcased in Verge Motorcycles. The battery offers longer range, faster charging, and greater safety compared to conventional lithium-ion batteries, made from abundant materials with a long lifespan and cost-effective. Verge CEO Tuomo Lehtimäki announced the use of solid-state battery technology in motorcycles, lasting the entire lifetime of the vehicle and enabling faster charging without affecting the price. Donut Lab's advanced motors, like the Donut 2.0 motor, are 50% lighter while delivering the same power, supporting a wide range of vehicles for faster, more flexible EV development. Despite challenges, the EV market shows promise and growth, with newcomers like Slate Auto and Ford moving forward with production plans for affordable electric vehicles.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/02/23/donut-lab-meant-what-they-said-about-that-new-solid-state-ev-battery/

  • The Important Role That Black Communities Play In Addressing Climate Change

    Black Climate Week, organized by The Solutions Project and NAACP, aims to support Black-led climate solutions and amplify success stories. Strategies such as agroforestry, zero-emission buildings, renewable energy sources, and plant-based diets are highlighted as steps towards a net zero future. Black-led organizations are securing policy victories and developing clean energy projects to reduce carbon emissions. The NAACP is advocating for renewable energy and financial responsibility for climate-related costs, while supporting youth through programs like the Young Black Climate Leaders Dream Lab. The Solutions Project, a nonprofit organization, supports grassroots climate organizations led by women and people of color with grants and communications support, while the NAACP advocates for civil rights for Black America, focusing on racial equity, civic engagement, and supportive policies for marginalized communities. Both organizations are committed to creating a world without racism and ensuring equitable opportunities for all.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/02/23/the-important-role-that-black-communities-play-in-addressing-climate-change/

  • Rethinking Nature As Economic Climate Capital – And A Really Valuable Investment

    The sections highlight the importance of nature-based solutions to protect coastal communities from sea level rise and the need for economic growth to align with the health of the planet. They emphasize transitioning to industries compatible with nature, reframing the cost of addressing climate change as an investment in the future, and valuing natural landscapes for their environmental services. The focus is on recognizing the finite nature of land and natural resources, supporting biodiversity, and promoting sustainable practices to maximize the value of all lands. The key message is to shift towards a wealth model that benefits organisms and accumulates wisdom for future generations, moving away from extraction and exploitation towards a more sustainable approach.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/02/22/rethinking-nature-as-economic-climate-capital-and-a-really-valuable-investment/

  • Electric Vehicle Models Top 5 Vehicle Classes in California

    The success of electric vehicles in various segments in California is highlighted, with Tesla's Model Y and Model 3 leading the way. Other EVs like the BMW i4, Honda Prologue, Rivian R1S, and Cadillac Escalade electric version also performed well in their respective categories. The Mercedes EQB, Audi Q4 e-tron, and Hyundai IONIQ 5 were noted as top performers in different classes. The Volkswagen ID. Buzz ranks 5th in the minivan market, with potential for growth. For more detailed analyses and updates, readers can subscribe to CleanTechnica's newsletters and follow them on Google News.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/02/22/electric-vehicle-models-top-5-vehicle-classes-in-california/

  • Peak Fuel Cell Bus Deliveries in the EU Occurred in 2025

    Battery-electric buses are dominating new city bus registrations across the EU, surpassing expectations. However, Germany still has a 9% fuel cell bus share in 2024 and 2025, while the EU as a whole is around 4%. The presence of hydrogen buses in the data is due to procurement lag and decisions made years ago. The Netherlands, on the other hand, has transitioned to 100% zero-emission buses, primarily battery-electric, despite still showing roughly 4% fuel cell buses in 2025. The article suggests that Germany is lagging behind other European countries in acquiring battery electric buses due to a focus on hydrogen, and emphasizes the importance of prioritizing battery electric buses over hydrogen buses for more effective climate solutions.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/02/21/peak-fuel-cell-bus-deliveries-in-the-eu-occurred-in-2025/

  • 1854 Motors Picks Up The Electric Pickup Torch Dropped By Tesla

    Several US startups, including 1854 Motors, are focusing on electric pickup trucks to sustain the vehicle electrification movement following Tesla's Cybertruck flop. 1854 Motors is banking on sodium-ion batteries to release EVs from ethical and environmental complications associated with the cobalt supply chain, targeting socially conscious early adopters. The Pierce electric truck, powered by Na-ion batteries, offers advantages over traditional Li-ion batteries such as better performance in cold weather, longer lifespan, and lower cost. Inspired by the 1987 Chevrolet El Camino, the Pierce aims to dominate cold climate markets in the US with its sleek design. This development comes as Elon Musk faces troubles with controversial features in his ventures, highlighting concerns about privacy and ethics in technology.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/02/21/cultural-architects-trojan-horses-and-another-ev-startup-to-challenge-tesla/

  • Battery Storage System Replaces Wastewater Facility Diesel Generator

    Viridi's recent replacement of a diesel backup generator with a battery energy storage system at a wastewater facility in New York State highlights the cost-saving benefits and improved reliability of such systems. Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) like Viridi's offer municipalities a cleaner, lower-maintenance alternative to diesel generators, with federal and state incentives further reducing capital costs. As cities and towns prioritize resilience and budget predictability, the shift towards battery-based systems is expected to accelerate, especially in populated areas. CleanTechnica provides in-depth analyses on clean tech topics, offering insights on the growing trend towards sustainable energy solutions.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/02/20/battery-storage-system-replaces-wastewater-facility-diesel-generator/

  • Taxing Fossil Fuel Profits

    A new study recommends implementing profit-based taxes on fossil fuel companies in the EU to finance the energy transition, protect consumers, and support energy savings and electrification. The goal is to redirect capital towards clean energy, strengthen Europe's energy security, and achieve climate goals. Measures include introducing a differentiated corporate tax framework, extending taxation of windfall profits, and establishing an EU-level methodology to monitor price pass-through. Additionally, there is a focus on protecting workers in the fossil fuel sector and recycling revenues from fossil fuel profit taxes into the energy transition to discourage further fossil fuel expansion and promote the transition to clean energy.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/02/20/taxing-fossil-fuel-profits/

  • Solar Power Used To Charge An EV In The Sub-Arctic

    A pilot project in the sub-Arctic successfully used off-grid solar power to charge an electric Subaru, challenging the notion that solar panels only work in hot climates. The portable solar panels and EV charger demonstrated the potential for clean energy solutions in extreme climates, with the technology being versatile enough to charge electric snowmobiles, e-bikes, ATVs, and motorcycles. The local indigenous communities in the Arctic and sub-Arctic regions are interested in sustainable transportation and clean energy, driven by their environmental ethic and the challenges of climate change. This project's success highlights the potential for off-grid solar charging in extreme climates and signifies a shift towards green technology.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/02/19/solar-power-used-to-charge-an-ev-in-the-sub-arctic/