Battery costs have declined by 99% in the last three decades, with over 20 million electric cars sold globally in 2025 at prices as low as $10,000. The global cumulative production of batteries has increased significantly since 1991, with prices dropping by roughly 19% every time production doubled. Cheaper storage solutions, particularly lithium-ion batteries, have enabled the widespread adoption of renewable energy and electrified transport, transforming the industry from niche technology to mainstream use. The decline in battery costs has made electrified transport a reality, with batteries now powering cars, homes, and power grids worldwide, emphasizing the importance of continued innovation in this area for a low-carbon energy system.
Author: Ourworldindata
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Why cheap waste management is key to stopping plastic pollution
Improving waste management in low- and middle-income countries is crucial to cutting global plastic pollution by 98%, as high-income countries produce 100 times less plastic pollution per person due to better waste management systems. The main sources of plastic pollution in rich countries are littering, while in poorer countries, uncollected waste and poorly managed disposal sites are the main contributors. Investing in basic waste management infrastructure in low- and lower-middle-income countries is crucial for reducing plastic pollution, as research shows that each dollar spent on upgrading systems in these countries can prevent significantly more plastic pollution compared to spending the same amount in high-income countries. Focusing on waste collection and controlled landfills is more effective and affordable than options like incinerators and recycling plants, highlighting the importance of prioritizing cost-effective waste management solutions to address the plastic pollution crisis and potentially reduce global plastic pollution levels to just 2% of their current levels.
https://ourworldindata.org/why-cheap-waste-management-is-key-to-stopping-plastic-pollution
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Putting solar panels on land used for biofuels would produce enough electricity for all cars and trucks to go electric
The article explores the potential of repurposing land currently used for biofuels for solar panels to power electric vehicles, highlighting the shift in focus from biofuels to electric cars for low-carbon transport. Estimates suggest up to 112 million hectares are used for biofuels, with a conservative estimate of 32 million hectares. By utilizing 32 million hectares for solar power generation, it could produce enough electricity to meet the world's current consumption levels, emphasizing the efficiency and sustainability of solar power in decarbonizing transportation. The article stresses the importance of thoughtful land use for climate solutions, proposing a mix of biofuels and solar power or allowing some land to return to nature as potential solutions.
https://ourworldindata.org/biofuel-land-solar-electric-vehicles