Key Trends Shaping the Global Climate Landscape in 2025

CGC News Reporter January 5, 2025

As the fight against global warming intensifies, 2025 is set to witness a mix of progress and challenges in the transition to a greener future. While record solar installations and a rise in electric vehicle sales signal optimism, various disruptions are expected to affect the planet’s environmental trajectory this year.

Experts forecast a slowdown in solar installations, with growth expected to fall from 35% in 2024 to just 11% in 2025, as the integration of surplus solar power strains electrical grids. Meanwhile, coal use is likely to extend its lifespan, particularly in India and China, where demand for the fuel continues to rise, and offsetting declines in the West.

The role of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) investing remains pivotal, despite political backlash in the U.S. and regulatory pressures in Europe. Carbon credit offsets may see looser standards, particularly from organizations like the Science Based Targets Initiative, potentially influencing global climate goals.

Electric vehicle adoption remains strong, particularly in China, which is expected to account for 65% of global EV sales in 2025. In contrast, traditional energy sources like nuclear power are experiencing a revival, driven by concerns over climate change and energy security. The Arctic region is becoming more geopolitically significant, while the prospect of deep-sea mining raises environmental concerns.

As world leaders prepare for COP30 in Brazil, progress on global climate agreements remains uncertain, and nations continue to confront pressing challenges in tackling plastic pollution and resource overconsumption. With these evolving trends, 2025 promises to be a year of both significant environmental strides and contentious debates.