Climate Change Solutions Update

Category: Food, Agriculture, Land & Ocean (FALO)

Cut Emissions:
– Curb Growing Demands
– Restore & Manage Ecosystems
– Shift Agriculture Practices

  • 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/

  • 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/

  • 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.

    https://www.pv-magazine.com/2026/05/14/plug-and-play-control-framework-for-adjusting-panel-tilt-in-agrivoltaics/

  • 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.

    https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-05-12/geothermal-energy-developer-fervo-raises-1-89-billion-in-us-ipo

  • 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.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/04/30/we-need-to-speak-out-against-policies-that-are-exacerbating-climate-change/

  • 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.

    https://news.mongabay.com/podcast/2026/04/reciprocity-not-extraction-centering-an-indigenous-approach-to-forestry/

  • Happy Earth Day (Which Is Every Day)

    The article delves into the various ways in which the food system impacts the planet, with a focus on climate change and environmental sustainability. It discusses the potential of seaweed farms to support shellfish in changing waters, the importance of chefs in promoting climate-friendly food systems, and the challenges faced by farmers in adopting climate-smart practices. The piece also touches on the significance of ancient irrigation systems in addressing climate change, the influence of big ag lobbyists on climate inequity, and the EPA's cancellation of climate justice projects. Additionally, it raises concerns about the potential consequences of the EPA's proposal to eliminate its ability to regulate greenhouse gas emissions.

    https://civileats.com/2026/04/22/happy-earth-day-which-is-every-day/

  • Extreme heat is rewriting food security. The best fixes are already within reach

    The joint FAO-WMO report emphasizes the dangers of extreme heat on agriculture, highlighting the need for investments in heat-tolerant varieties, new farming practices, and early warning systems. The UN initiative Early Warnings for All provides region-specific guidance to protect crops and livestock during heat events, aiming to move from crisis response to heat readiness. Practical measures like shading crops and increasing water storage can help farmers reduce losses, while initiatives like solar-powered cold storage in Jamaica are aiding in reducing food loss. Addressing climate change impacts on agriculture is crucial for food security, with investing in preparation for extreme heat being a cost-effective solution to stabilize production and prices.

    https://www.climatechangenews.com/2026/04/22/extreme-heat-is-rewriting-food-security-the-best-fixes-are-already-within-reach/

  • We Can Create Food Systems That Enhance Human & Planetary Health

    The section discusses the need to decarbonize agricultural practices, transition to low carbon energy sources, and use agrivoltaics to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in food systems. It emphasizes the importance of a systemic approach to transform food systems, reduce Scope 3 emissions, and address interconnected challenges of food production, climate change, and environmental sustainability. Clear communication of scientific evidence on climate change, food systems, and health is highlighted, along with the importance of integrating knowledge and engaging stakeholders. Managing the global agri-food system efficiently, focusing on soil health, water quality, and climate resilience, and promoting plant-based diets are key strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and address food insecurity. The article also stresses the need to protect agricultural workers, implement sustainable practices, and advocate for a theology of food that prioritizes human dignity and access to food for all.

    https://cleantechnica.com/2026/04/19/we-can-create-food-systems-that-enhance-human-planetary-health/

  • Agrivoltaics maintain or enhanche forage quality, study finds

    A study conducted by researchers from the University of Minnesota and the University of New Hampshire found that agrivoltaic arrays can maintain or improve forage quality for grazing dairy cattle. The research focused on how solar intensity and panel configuration impact yield and feed quality of grasses and legumes. Results showed that while forage biomass was lower at a 50 kW solar site compared to a 30 kW site and control pasture, the 50 kW forages had higher crude protein content. Overall, the study suggests that agrivoltaic systems have the potential to enhance forage quality and biomass production compared to traditional pastures.

    https://www.pv-magazine.com/2026/04/16/agrivoltaics-maintain-or-enhanche-forage-quality-study-finds/