A new study published in Geography and Sustainability presents a geospatial modeling framework that shows utility-scale solar buildouts can avoid critical ecological habitats with minimal impact on project economics. Researchers from Cornell University, The Nature Conservancy, and other institutions used New York State as a case study to analyze land-use priorities for decarbonization. The study found that prioritizing biodiversity, agriculture preservation, or cost minimization led to different regional trade-offs in land use. By utilizing dual-criterion macro-siting algorithms, asset managers can reduce risks in pipeline development and present optimized spatial configurations to overcome NIMBY resistance. This suggests that smart macro-siting can mitigate local opposition and environmental degradation at a minimal cost premium, leading to more just and ecologically responsible energy transitions.
Category: Food, Agriculture, Land & Ocean (FALO)
Cut Emissions:
– Curb Growing Demands
– Restore & Manage Ecosystems
– Shift Agriculture Practices
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European Energy begins work Italy’s 225.5MW agrivoltaic project
European Energy is constructing a 225.5MW agrivoltaic project in Sicily, Italy, under Italy's FER X Transitional Contract for Difference auction scheme. The facility is projected to generate 405GWh of electricity annually, powering 135,000 households by integrating solar energy generation with agricultural practices like sheep grazing and reforestation. With a focus on long-term revenue stability and integrated land-use solutions, European Energy aims to develop robust renewable energy projects. The company's strong development pipeline in Italy has attracted significant investor interest in large-scale renewable energy projects.
https://www.power-technology.com/news/european-energy-begins-work-italys-agrivoltaic-project/
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The Race to Regenerate: Why the Tipping Point for Nature Positive Agriculture Is a Business Problem, Not a Farming Problem
Oatly has set ambitious goals to transition to regenerative agriculture, aiming for 30% of global supply by 2030, 90% by 2040, and 100% by 2050. The company emphasizes the importance of shifting towards regenerative agriculture within supply chains and at the landscape level, highlighting the need for greater corporate transparency and farmer involvement in decision-making. These steps are crucial for the success of the transition towards more sustainable agricultural practices.
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First bank-backed regenerative agriculture programme launched for South African farmers
South African commercial farmers have the opportunity to earn supplementary income through a new bank-backed carbon credit programme that promotes regenerative agriculture practices. This initiative provides financial incentives for farmers to adopt more sustainable farming methods, potentially reducing their carbon footprint and contributing to overall climate solutions. By participating in the programme, farmers can play a significant role in mitigating climate change while also benefiting financially from their efforts.
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Solar & Farming Can Share Land, But The Details Matter
Agrivoltaics, the combination of solar panels and agriculture, can be challenging to implement effectively. It is important to prioritize the agricultural system in the design process, considering factors such as crop physiology, climate, irrigation, and farmer economics. Contracts should clearly define responsibilities and benefits for both the farmer and the solar developer. The success of agrivoltaics should be measured by overall productivity, not just crop yield per hectare. Policy should support genuine dual use of land for solar and agriculture, rather than forcing every solar project to include farming. Enforcement is necessary to ensure that developers do not exploit agricultural claims for easier approval.
https://cleantechnica.com/2026/05/16/solar-farming-can-share-land-but-the-details-matter/
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UKHACC News Bulletin May 2026 – UK Health Alliance on Climate Change
The UK Health Alliance on Climate Change has appointed a new Director, Charlie Brown, who brings extensive charity leadership and influencing experience. The government has committed to clean energy expansion, including ending new oil and gas licenses and banning fracking and coal licenses. Leaders of 57 countries met to develop plans to end reliance on fossil fuels, focusing on national roadmaps and addressing harmful subsidies. There is an upcoming lobby day in Parliament to support the Ten Point Plan on Plant-Rich Diets, endorsed by over 60 organizations including the UKHACC. The section also discusses upcoming events related to climate solutions in the healthcare sector, such as the Lancet MedZero global database for carbon analytics in healthcare and the SusQI Showcase highlighting sustainability in quality improvement projects. Cities are taking action on climate change to achieve health benefits, with initiatives like the West Midlands Climate-Health Explorer and CleanMed Europe 2026 conference. The importance of creating healthier and more sustainable food systems in the UK, integrating sustainability into oversight processes, educating health professionals on climate change, and understanding the impact of extreme weather events on mental health is emphasized. The newsletter mentioned in the section can be subscribed to for updates on climate solutions and invites submissions for inclusion in future editions.
https://ukhealthalliance.org/news-item/ukhacc-news-bulletin-may-2026/
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Plug-and-play control framework for adjusting panel tilt in agrivoltaics
Cornell University researchers have developed an integrated control framework for agrivoltaic systems that optimizes solar panel tilt angles based on past and future conditions. This framework combines proactive decision-making with reactive strategies to maximize energy production while meeting crop light requirements, outperforming existing methods by reducing light deficits in crops and increasing energy production. The framework is designed to be adaptable across different crops, climates, and system configurations, making it a valuable tool for software developers and solar operators. This solution, outlined in the journal Solar Energy, aims to improve the efficiency of combining agriculture and solar energy production, even in regions with challenging, cloudy climates, making agrivoltaics more viable and scalable.
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Geothermal Energy Developer Fervo Raises $1.89 Billion in US IPO
The article highlights key climate solutions experts need to know, including the importance of transitioning to renewable energy sources, implementing sustainable practices in industries, and investing in green technologies. It emphasizes the urgent need for global cooperation to address climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, the article stresses the significance of protecting and restoring ecosystems, such as forests and wetlands, to mitigate the impacts of climate change. Overall, the focus is on practical solutions and collaborative efforts to combat the climate crisis effectively.
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We Need To Speak Out Against Policies That Are Exacerbating Climate Change
The importance of stabilizing rising global temperatures, finding alternatives to energy-intensive nitrogen fertilizers, and protecting mangrove ecosystems are crucial climate solutions highlighted in the article. It emphasizes the need for low-carbon production routes, empowering small holder farmers, and nature-based investments to address climate disruption and protect the economy. Additionally, the impact of climate change on marine ecosystems, such as Southern Right Whales, underscores the urgency for climate solutions that match the scale of the crisis. Inaction is not a neutral option in the face of these climate-related challenges.
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Reciprocity, not extraction: Centering an Indigenous approach to forestry
Biodiversity, water accessibility, and climate are interconnected, offering a climate solution through ecosystem restoration and landscape care. By promoting biodiversity, the water cycle can be healed, leading to climate stabilization. This aspect has been overlooked in the climate conversation, which often focuses solely on carbon dioxide reduction and transitioning away from fossil fuels. Protecting ecosystems and balancing the water cycle are crucial components of addressing climate change.