Top countries leading the renewable revolution

The climate crisis is currently one of the most pressing issues on earth. Every day, scientists are researching new technologies and advancing their understanding of energy in order to further the fight against climate change. However, not all countries are equally invested in moving forward with regards to renewable energy. There are some that seem disinterested, while others are spearheading what is being referred to as the renewable revolution.

It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to see that our planet is suffering. The polar ice caps are melting at an alarming rate, the temperature is hotter than ever before, and natural disasters seem to be occurring with far more frequency than in previous eras. If we don’t act now, there may be precious little left for our children and grandchildren to inherit.

Right now, these are the five countries doing the most to further the renewable revolution.

Sweden

Scandinavia has always been particularly impressive when it comes to forward thinking and progressiveness. It started with the nations’ attitudes on gender and education and has spread into the energy sector. Sweden is aiming to be the first nation in the world to be completely fossil fuel free. This decision was made in 2015 and since then the country has been pouring money into wind, solar, smart grids and clean transportation. Not only this, but Sweden has been proactive in encouraging other countries to join them in their challenge.

Costa Rica

In 2015, Costa Rica announced its remarkable achievement of using 99% renewable energy. This bade well for the country reaching its target of being completely carbon neutral by 2021. This tiny Central American country might not look like much on the map but it is a pioneer when it comes to renewable energy usage. Given its commitment to the environment and preservation of its astonishing rainforest, it is no wonder Costa Rica is so dedicated to fighting climate change.

China

China might be one of the largest emitters of carbon, but it is also a key figure in the renewable revolution. You might be wondering how this paradox can be. Well, despite the emissions coming from the country’s billion inhabitants, the government is pouring huge amounts of money into renewable energy research and development. It has also closed down thousands of coal mines in an attempt to wean itself off of its dependency on fossil fuels.

Uruguay

Often overlooked as far as South American countries go, Uruguay is setting the benchmark high when it comes to participating in the renewable revolution. This impressive nation has only been in the renewables game for ten years and has already made an impact. Currently, nearly 95% of its electricity comes from clean energy. How have they achieved so much in such a short time frame? Clear decision making and a no nonsense attitude to climate change seem to have done the trick.

Nicaragua


Another Latin American nation holding down the fort in the renewable revolution is Nicaragua, Costa Rica’s nextdoor neighbour. So far, Nicaragua has pledged to be using 90% renewable energy by 2020 and it looks set to achieve that goal. The country’s government is currently investing huge amounts of money into renewable energy development. In fact, relative to their GDP, Nicaragua is the fifth highest investor in renewable energy. 

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