January is already coming to its end, but it’s not late to wish you a Happy New Year. Let’s not forget the Chinese New Year just began a couple of days ago! Hopefully the year 2012 will exceed the previous one in every possible way achieved by eco-friendly means! But…what happened last year in the world from an environmental perspective? Let’s see the green highlights of 2011 split into 4 parts…

Jan-Feb-Mar

There is no doubt that Fukushima’s nuclear meltdown in Japan was the most important occurrence both for humanity and the environment in the previous year. On the 11th of March the Nuclear Power Plant of Fukushima failed from Tohoko earthquake followed by a tsunami, releasing radioactive material in the North Pacific Ocean. Sadly, the world studied again – after Chernobyl’s disaster in 1986 – the effects of nuclear accidents upon the earth and the humans.

Apr-May-Jun

In the spring, my interest was captured by Italy’s referendum on nuclear power. Italians clearly rejected Berlusconi’s nuclear plans on the public referendum. It’s worth mentioning that Italy is the only country out of the G8 members that does not use nuclear power for electricity supply. Somewhere in the northwestern part of Europe, questions have risen on whether using energy derived from biomass is sustainable and at which extent the supply can meet future demand. Beside UK, a large number of biomass plants are planned in Europe and North America, which tend to increase the competition for fuel. Still, the adoption of biomass has raised more questions than the answers we have.

Jul-Aug-Sept

During summer many environmental topics where caught at the center of attention. Firstly, Barak Obama’s major turn to biofuels, by investing millions of dollars to reduce dependence on foreign oil, was quite impressive. On the other side of the Atlantic, UK government’s major reform of the country’s electricity market by giving praise to new nuclear power made a difference. Lastly, two oil spills accidents in the North Sea, confirmed by Shell industry, shocked the environmental society.

Oct-Nov-Dec

The United Nations Climate Change Conference in Durban was a glimpse of light before the year ended. It actually delivered a breakthrough on the international community’s response to climate change. The outcomes included a decision by Parties to adopt a universal legal agreement on climate change as soon as possible; no later than 2015.

Looking back can only improve future decisions. It is up to the individual to make the difference today and invest in tomorrow’s environment. Some wait to see what this year will bring. We keep in mind that as you make your bed, so you must lie in it.

elen