Digital Energy Net

Carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies capture fossil fuel emissions for permanent disposal underground, as part of the larger effort known as carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS). CO2 can be utilized in several ways, though only some offer net climate benefits after taking into account all indirect and other effects. Capture Carbon Capture and…

Climate change mitigation refers to any action taken that reduces or enhances carbon sinks that remove heat-trapping greenhouse gases into Earth’s atmosphere, including switching to renewable energy sources, improving energy efficiency and adopting regenerative agricultural practices, while protecting forests and other ecosystems. Such steps could include transitioning from fossil-based energy sources such as coal to…

Energy policy refers to how governments and communities develop, implement and enforce laws and regulations that affect the production and consumption of energy – from supporting renewable sources like solar and wind to increasing energy efficiency and decreasing greenhouse gas emissions. Each country’s energy policy is determined by a unique set of issues and interests,…

Mixed-use development refers to any community development project that incorporates multiple uses within one building or area, from retail stores with apartments above them to full urban village developments. Successful mixed-use developments create vibrant communities that foster social connections while simultaneously contributing to more sustainable futures by decreasing dependence on cars. Creating Places That Build…

Green buildings take steps to optimize energy, water and materials performance through various measures that include renewable energies such as photovoltaic cells or cutting waste by employing methods such as life cycle assessment (LCA). LCA allows environmental impacts of green buildings to be assessed. These practices produce tangible business benefits for organizations combining sustainability and…

Urban infrastructure systems should be designed, constructed, operated and decommissioned in ways that optimize economic viability, social equity, environmental protection and climate resilience for their life cycle. This may include using natural systems or traditional infrastructure solutions. Attaining this goal involves incorporating natural processes into infrastructure planning, shifting behavioral incentives, and supporting local initiatives to…

Transit-oriented development (TOD) is an exciting new approach to community building. Transit villages are compact and walkable communities designed around high quality public transit networks that reduce congestion, cut down pollution emissions, and make travel simpler for people without access to cars. TOD areas are usually constructed around bus or train stations with housing, stores…

Energy efficiency is one of the easiest, least-expensive, and cleanest ways to combat climate pollution. At NRDC, we work to strengthen state and federal efficiency standards for buildings and appliances; advocate for electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure investments; and support behaviour change initiatives. Efficiency can also make the power grid more reliable and resistant to…

Sustainable development refers to meeting people’s current needs while protecting future ones in an integrated fashion, across social, environmental and economic spheres. Countries around the world are taking great strides toward meeting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030, but more needs to be done. You can contribute by supporting brands that prioritize climate goals…

Smart cities rely on technologies such as cloud computing, AI, IoT, augmented reality edge and blockchain to collect data quickly and solve issues as soon as they arise. This enables them to improve efficiency and quality of service to citizens. New York City uses smart water sensors to track usage and alert residents when there…