Daily Current Affairs news
April 22, 2025
New York, USA – World leaders, scientists, and activists convened today for the Earth Day 2025 Summit in New York, marking the 55th anniversary of the environmental movement amid escalating climate crises. The summit comes as the latest UN report warns that global temperatures are on track to rise by 2.5°C by 2100, far exceeding the Paris Agreement’s 1.5°C target.
Key Developments on Earth Day 2025
1. Renewed Pledges Amid Worsening Climate Disasters
The summit saw bold commitments from major economies, including:
- The European Union announcing a 60% emissions cut by 2035, up from its previous 55% target.
- The United States unveiling a $500 billion Green Infrastructure Bill, focusing on renewable energy and flood-resistant urban planning.
- India pledging to phase out coal by 2040, a decade earlier than expected, contingent on international financial support.
However, critics argue that progress remains too slow, citing recent devastating floods in Bangladesh, record-breaking wildfires in Australia, and droughts in the Amazon as signs that current policies are insufficient.
2. Youth Protests Demand Faster Action
Thousands of young activists, led by groups like Fridays for Future, marched in major cities, accusing governments of "greenwashing" and failing to meet climate justice demands. In London, protesters blocked financial districts, calling for an end to fossil fuel investments.
3. Breakthrough in Renewable Energy
In a positive development, scientists confirmed that solar and wind now supply over 40% of global electricity, with costs hitting record lows. A new fusion energy project in France also reported a major milestone, achieving sustained plasma reaction for over 300 seconds, raising hopes for near-limitless clean energy.
4. Biodiversity Crisis in Focus
The UN’s Global Biodiversity Report 2025 revealed that 1 million species remain at risk of extinction, with coral reefs and tropical forests declining rapidly. The "30x30" initiative—to protect 30% of Earth’s land and oceans by 2030—was reinforced, but enforcement remains weak.
Political Tensions Over Climate Funding
A major sticking point at the summit was climate finance for developing nations. The $100 billion annual pledge from wealthy countries has still not been fully met, sparking frustration from African and Pacific Island delegates, who face the worst impacts despite contributing least to emissions.
Looking Ahead
As Earth Day 2025 concludes, the question remains: Will this be the year of real change, or just more promises? With the COP30 summit in Brazil looming next year, pressure is mounting for binding agreements rather than voluntary pledges.
For now, the world watches—and waits—to see if leaders will act before it’s too late.
— By [PendulumEdu], Current Affairs of 22 April 2025
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