Climate News September 2025

UK & EU Climate News

• Katie White, MP for Leeds North West, has been appointed the UK's new Climate Minister following Prime Minister Keir Starmer's surprise Cabinet reshuffle. Katie White replaces Kerry McCarthy, who has held the climate brief since 2022. The Climate Minister position, which falls under Ed Miliband's Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, is in charge of international climate policy, net-zero strategy and citizen engagement. Katie White has substantial environmental expertise, having worked with Friends of the Earth, WWF and One.org. She received an OBE in 2013 for her climate campaigning and expressed optimism about the UK’s green future, citing the strength of British science and innovation. Meanwhile, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch has pledged to scrap the UK's landmark climate change legislation and replace it with a strategy for "cheap and reliable" energy. The Climate Change Act 2008, which put targets for cutting emissions into law, was introduced by the last Labour government and strengthened under Tory PM Theresa May. Badenoch said her party wanted to leave "a cleaner environment for our children" but argued "Labour's laws tied us in red tape, loaded us with costs, and did nothing to cut global emissions". Badenoch has previously said the target of net zero by 2050 is "impossible" for the UK to meet and promised to "maximise" extraction of oil and gas from the North Sea. Reform UK has also said it would scrap net zero targets if it wins the next election, blaming the policy for higher energy bills and deindustrialisation in the UK.

• The European Union has failed to meet a global deadline to set new emissions targets, risking its credibility ahead of the COP30 climate summit, Reuters reports. Despite generally leading global climate efforts, EU ministers delayed agreement on 2035 and 2040 targets due to internal conflicts, particularly over the anticipated 90% emissions reduction by 2040. Germany, France and Poland pressed for more debate at an October summit, however Spain and Denmark advocated firmer action in light of growing climate risks. As a temporary solution, the EU will submit a "statement of intent" to the UN, outlining a projected 66.25-72.5% reduction in emissions by 2035. EU leaders warn that failing to finalise targets might reduce the bloc's influence in global negotiations, particularly as economic and geopolitical pressures undermine climate commitments throughout Europe.

• US President Donald Trump encouraged Prime Minister Keir Starmer to reconsider his stance on North Sea oil and gas, during his state visit to the UK, calling for a return to fossil fuel extraction to reduce energy costs. Trump called wind energy a "very expensive joke" and praised his "drill, baby, drill" policy for lowering inflation and helping the US economy. Starmer responded by reaffirming his commitment to a pragmatic energy mix that includes renewables and existing North Sea resources but ruled out new oil and gas licences. The exchange has prompted political debate, with Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch supporting Trump's call for further extraction, while environment groups and energy experts warned that the North Sea is in decline and further drilling will not fix energy costs. Meanwhile, President Trump promoted himself, called green energy a “scam” and criticised a wide variety of targets in his U.N address on 23rd September.

• Octopus Energy, the UK’s largest electricity supplier, has partnered with Chinese wind turbine manufacturer Ming Yang Smart Energy to explore the possibility of deploying Chinese-made turbines in Britain for the first time. The collaboration supports Octopus' Winder program, which intends to connect willing communities with developers to generate up to 6GW of wind power. Octopus claims that merging its smart technology with Ming Yang's turbines might assist optimise energy output and reduce costs. The move comes as the UK strives to develop renewable energy despite growing project costs and electricity prices. However, the agreement raises concerns about competition, as the EU has initiated a probe of Chinese turbine imports. Ming Yang was originally scheduled to supply turbines for a German wind farm, but the contract was lost to Siemens Gamesa. UK Energy Minister Ed Miliband has visited China earlier this year to discuss climate and energy issues and has said it would be negligent to not engage with China on climate issues.

Global Climate News

• Russia and China have signed an agreement to proceed with the Power of Siberia 2 pipeline, a massive energy project that could move 50 billion cubic metres of gas per year from Arctic fields through Mongolia to China. While pricing and construction specifics are still being worked out, the agreement implies a strengthening of energy connections between the two countries, despite Western sanctions. Gazprom also confirmed an increase in gas delivery to 44 billion cubic meters per year through the current Power of Siberia pipeline. Analysts believe the move demonstrates China's rising rejection of Western pressure, as well as its aim to diversify its energy sources away from US LNG. The pipeline would be one of the world's largest and most capital-intensive, but there are still questions about practicality, costs and China's long-term transition towards renewables. The agreement came after high-level negotiations between Xi Jinping, Vladimir Putin and Mongolia's president, marking a geopolitical shift in global energy dynamics and strengthening Moscow and Beijing's "no limits" partnership.

• Global uranium demand is expected to increase by 28% by 2030 and more than double by 2040, due to increasing interest in nuclear energy to achieve zero-carbon goals. With nuclear capacity projected to increase from 398 GW to 746 GW by 2040, additional mines and restarts to idle operations will be required to avoid supply shortages after 2030. Geopolitical tensions and worries about energy security have accelerated the development of nuclear power, including small modular reactors. While the existing uranium supply is adequate, extended lead periods for future projects raise concerns.

• Australia has set a new climate goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 62-70% below 2005 levels by 2035, adding to its existing targets of 43% reduction by 2030 and net zero by 2050, according to The Washington Post. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will present the goal at the UN General Assembly, describing it as a science-backed, practical plan that is in line with global efforts. The Climate Change Authority believes the objective is more ambitious than other modern economies, but environmentalists argue it falls short of what is required. Critics including the opposition Liberal Party have questioned its credibility and business groups warn of economic consequences if cuts exceed 70%. Larissa Waters, a senator leading the environmentally focused Australian Greens, said the government’s actual target was 62%, which she described as “appallingly low.” The government was not addressing Australia’s coal and liquefied natural gas exports, which were among the world’s largest of those fossil fuels, she said.

• Ethiopia has officially launched the Grand Renaissance Dam, Africa's largest hydropower project, which aims to strengthen the economy, eliminate blackouts and fuel the country's shift to electric vehicles. The $5 billion dam, located on the Blue Nile near Sudan, will generate more than 5,000 megawatts, doubling Ethiopia's electrical capacity. Dozens of African politicians attended the ceremony, with Kenya and South Sudan indicating an interest in importing power. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed described the dam as a symbol of African achievement and unity. However, the project remains controversial, and Egypt say that it poses an "existential threat" to the Nile water supply. Ethiopia pledged not to harm downstream nations and has called for shared prosperity. Despite regional tensions, the project marks a major milestone in Africa’s push for energy independence and climate-resilient development.

Scientists issue warning against 'dangerous' climate engineering in the Arctic

More than 40 researchers have issued a warning against geoengineering schemes to manipulate the Arctic and Antarctic to tackle climate change. Techniques such as thickening sea ice and releasing reflective aerosols into the atmosphere are gaining attention, but researchers warn that they are dangerous, unfeasible and risk diverting attention away from the urgent need to reduce fossil fuel emissions.

A new assessment examined notable polar geoengineering proposals and found that they raise "very valid concerns" and all of them failed to meet basic criteria for their feasibility and potential environmental risks. Concerns include environmental damage, disruptions to global weather patterns and geopolitical issues, particularly in locations with complicated governance, such as the Arctic. One proposal to pump seawater over Arctic ice would require 10 million pumps to cover just 10% of the region. Scientists argue these ideas could create a false sense of security and delay meaningful climate action. While some carbon removal methods are part of net-zero strategies, experts stress that emissions reductions must remain the priority. Supporters of geoengineering research are also agreeing that deployment is premature and potentially harmful. A UK government-backed agency recently announced nearly £60m of funding for such research, though the government says it has no plans to deploy them.

Net Zero Incompatibility - The Production Gap 2025 Report

Governments, in aggregate, still plan to produce more than double the amount of fossil fuels in 2030 than would be consistent with limiting warming to 1.5C. The persistence of the global production gap puts a well-managed and equitable energy transition at risk.

Taken together, government now plan even higher levels of coal production to 2035, and gas production to 2050, than they did in 2023. Planned oil production continues to increase to 2050. These plans undermine countries’ Paris Agreement commitments, and go against expectations that under current policies global demand for coal, oil, and gas will peak before 2030.

Most of the 20 countries profiled in The Production Gap 2025 report continue to plan fossil fuel production at levels inconsistent with their net zero climate ambitions. Altogether, these countries account for over 82% of production and close to 74% of consumption of the world’s primary supply of fossil fuels.

Key oceans treaty crosses critical threshold to come into force

The High Seas Treaty, a landmark global agreement to protect marine biodiversity, has reached the required 60 ratifications and will come into force in January 2026, according to BBC news. Covering two-thirds of the world’s oceans, the treaty allows the creation of Marine Protected Areas in international waters, aiming to reverse decades of damage from overfishing, pollution and rising temperatures. Environmental groups praised the milestone as a turning point for ocean conservation. Currently, only 1% of the high seas are under protection, despite a global goal to protect 30% by 2030. Once active, countries will propose protected zones for collective approval. While critics warn of insufficient enforcement, the treaty is viewed as an important step towards recovering marine ecosystems and encouraging international collaboration in ocean governance.

Typhoon Ragasa: World's most powerful storm this year

Typhoon Ragasa, the world's most powerful storm this year, made landfall in southern China on Wednesday 24th September after hitting Taiwan and skirting Hong Kong. Ragasa was downgraded from a super typhoon to a severe one, but it still had winds of up to 241 km/h, forcing over two million people to evacuate across Guangdong province. The storm hit Hailing Island in Yangjiang City, inflicting significant damage and sparking red landslip alerts. Cities such as Zhuhai, Shenzhen and Guangzhou prepared for seawater incursion and excessive rain. Despite mitigating attempts, the storm injured 90 people in Hong Kong, disrupting flights and closing schools.

Typhoon Ragasa hit Taiwan, causing devastating flooding after a barrier lake breached in Hualien County, killing at least 17 people and leaving others missing. The lake, formed by a landslide in July, released an estimated 15.4 million tonnes of water sweeping away bridges, burying homes and trapping families. Premier Cho Jung-Tai has asked for an investigation into the evacuation failures, emphasising the need for responsibility and better disaster response. Entire villages, such as Dama, were submerged, leaving residents stuck and complicating rescue attempts. Indigenous tribes, including the Amis, have been greatly impacted, with many seeking refuge in evacuation camps. The government sent troops and established a disaster response centre, but the recovery process is expected to be slow. The hurricane also impacted life in the Philippines, killing eight people and displacing hundreds. Environmental groups warn that Ragasa's destruction emphasises the critical need for climate adaptation and infrastructure resilience throughout East Asia.

Chinese Mining Firm Downplays Toxic Waste Spill as Residents Reel From Impacts

In February 2025, a catastrophic toxic waste spill occurred at a copper mine in Zambia operated by Sino-Metals Leach Zambia, a subsidiary of China Nonferrous Mining Corp. The collapse of a tailings dam released millions of gallons of waste containing hazardous heavy metals like lead, arsenic, and uranium into nearby rivers and communities.

Despite the severity of the incident, the company publicly downplayed its impact, describing it as a minor leak and claiming restoration efforts were completed. However, independent assessments and a leaked internal report contradicted these claims, revealing the spill was far larger and more dangerous than reported. Local residents have suffered serious health issues, including skin conditions, respiratory problems, and contaminated water supplies.

Legal action is underway, with lawsuits demanding billions in compensation and remediation. Meanwhile, the company has been accused of intimidating affected communities, surveilling residents, and obstructing legal and civil society access. The Zambian government has taken over the pollution assessment, and international bodies, including the U.S. embassy, have raised concerns about the ongoing health risks and lack of accountability.

London Gatwick Airport given green light for £2.2bn second runway plan

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander has approved Gatwick Airport's £2.2 billion second runway plan, which will allow up to 100,000 more flights each year. The privately funded project will involve moving the emergency runway to accommodate narrow-bodied aircraft, with operations set to commence in 2029. The government believes that the expansion will produce £1 billion in economic activity and create 14,000 job opportunities. Despite initial rejection by the Planning Inspectorate, updated proposals for noise mitigation and public transport access received permission. Ministers believe that the project is consistent with climate goals, although legal binding on environmental targets remain unclear. Residents who are impacted by increased noise will receive financial assistance for relocation expenses. The government claims the increase will not exceed the UK's carbon budget, but critics remain sceptical.

The decision received criticism from environmental groups and local campaigners, who believe that it defies climate science and hinders efforts to cut aviation emissions. Critics, including Friends of the Earth and Stay Grounded, have warned of increasing pollution, noise, and strain on local infrastructure. CAGNE, a regional aviation and environmental group, is planning a judicial review, alleging insufficient funding for wastewater treatment and noise mitigation. The Green Party criticised the proposal as putting profit ahead of environmental health, while Labour's shadow transport secretary cautiously welcomed the decision and urged sensible safeguards. The debate reflects broader conflicts in UK aviation policy, as Heathrow pursues approval for a third runway.

Research

• A new study finds that methane emissions from boreal-Arctic wetlands and lakes are projected to rise by about 31% by 2100 under moderate climate warming, mainly due to higher temperatures rather than permafrost thaw. By analysing different wetland and lake types, researchers estimate current annual emissions at 34 million tonnes of methane, which is lower than previous estimates. Most future increases will come from fens, bogs, marshes and small peatland lakes. The findings suggest that warming will lengthen the growing season and boost methane release from these northern ecosystems.

• A new article finds that since the Paris Agreement, the World Bank has sharply increased the number of climate finance projects it supports, but most of this growth comes from “mixed” projects where climate goals are a minor part of broader development aims. Projects dedicated exclusively to climate mitigation or adaptation have remained flat and are not more likely to be directed to the countries most vulnerable to climate change or with the highest emissions. The findings raise questions about whether the promised impact of climate projects is always as high as the accounting suggests.

• New findings reveal that the global capacity for safely storing carbon dioxide underground is much more limited than previously thought, with a prudent planetary limit of about 1,460 gigatonnes of CO. This cap means that even with large-scale carbon capture and storage, the maximum possible reduction in global temperature is only 0.7C. Most climate scenarios would exceed this storage limit before 2200 unless near-term emissions are sharply reduced. The study suggests that treating carbon storage as a limited intergenerational resource has deep implications for national mitigation strategies and policy and requires making explicit decisions on priorities for storage use.

• A research article reveals that cumulative human impacts on global marine ecosystems are projected to more than double by 2050, with coastal habitats facing the highest pressures and offshore regions seeing the fastest increases. The greatest drivers of future impacts will be ocean warming and poorly managed fisheries, especially in tropical and polar regions. By mid-century, the percentage of ocean areas where marine habitats are unlikely to survive in their current state could rise sharply, threatening countries highly dependent on marine resources.  

• A new paper warns that rising ocean temperatures threaten global mangrove restoration efforts and will lead to significant losses in the benefits mangroves provide. By 2100, warming seas could reduce mangrove area by 150,000 hectares compared to a scenario without climate change. Annual welfare losses from diminished cultural, provisioning and regulating services are estimated to reach 28 billion USD, with Asia suffering the greatest impact. The results show that climate change will deepen global inequalities in ecosystem service losses, making targeted conservation strategies increasingly important.

• According to new research, an analysis of 107 hydropower dams worldwide over 40 years found that 41% percent of dams reduced flood risk, while 26% likely worsened it. Dams in high-precipitation, mountainous regions with shorter downstream river lengths were more likely to increase flooding, especially where rainfall and sedimentation is rising. Hotspots for flood-inducing dams were identified in South America and South Asia. The study calls for a shift in hydropower planning and management, emphasising the integration of adaptive flood risk mitigation into energy production strategies.

• A new research article finds that plastic pollution in the ocean could significantly reduce the ocean’s ability to absorb and store carbon, with losses reaching up to 1.6bn tonnes of carbon by 2050. Plastic affects the marine carbon cycle by being buried in sediments, releasing dissolved organic carbon and harming phytoplankton. Although about 0.7 million tonnes of plastic enter the ocean each year, the resulting decrease in ocean carbon uptake could reach 12.1 million tonnes of carbon annually. The study calls for comprehensive control policies to mitigate the losses caused by marine plastics

• A new study finds that Brazil’s Atlantic Forest lost 4.2 million hectares of natural vegetation cover since 1985, mainly due to deforestation, resulting in about 1.4 gigatonnes of carbon lost. While secondary vegetation gained 8.6 million hectares, much of this regeneration was short-lived, and failed to offset the loss of primary forest. The instability of secondary forests threatens biodiversity and ecosystem services and priority conservation areas saw a net loss of 1.2 million hectares. The research shows that halting deforestation remains the single most urgent and vital action to prevent irreversible biodiversity loss and reduce carbon emissions.