CLIMATE GROUP
ET AI Awards 2027 are here: Discover if your AI innovation is ready for the spotlight of a national stage!
Celebrating the future of technology, the ET AI Awards 2027 acknowledges key innovations and leadership in AI from various industries in India. With an impressive array of over 40 categories, these awards emphasize the importance of AI developments by startups, SMEs, and large enterprises, offering a valuable stage for recognizing their contributions to the AI ecosystem.
Russia, Ukraine agree to large prisoner exchange as talks conclude with no major breakthrough
Russia and Ukraine have agreed to a significant exchange of prisoners of war following US mediated discussions. The latest talks were the first between the two countries in nine months. US officials are striving to revive peace efforts that have achieved limited success so far. Negotiators face multiple hurdles, including territorial disputes and security guarantees. Continued fighting has resulted in civilian and military casualties in Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict.
In 1954, Bell Labs scientists Daryl Chapin, Calvin Fuller and Gerald Pearson unveiled a solar battery that helped advance solar-powered technology
On April 25, 1954, Bell Telephone Laboratories made a significant breakthrough by introducing a solar battery designed to power telephone systems. The focus was on enhancing efficiency, enabling solar cells to transform 6% of sunlight into usable electricity. While it started as a specialized technology, solar energy has seen remarkable adoption, with projections suggesting that by 2026, it will represent a major share of new energy production.
Since 2023, over 3,000 volunteers have searched satellite images for clouds; their answers are helping scientists check what computers miss
Thousands of volunteers are analyzing satellite images to assist in accurate cloud classification and detection. The CloudCatcher project aims to enhance the understanding of cloud patterns and their effects on climate. Human input provides valuable data to refine the capabilities of automated systems used in cloud detection. This collaboration showcases the growing trend of involving the public in environmental research efforts.
Tea industry groups back panel's proposal for minimum sustainable price as costs outpace prices
Five tea industry associations have welcomed the government committee's recommendation for a minimum sustainable price for tea. This recommendation aims to address rising production costs that are exceeding the prices received by producers. The proposed benchmark price is linked to wage movements and consumer price indices, which will be reviewed periodically. Producers believe this pricing mechanism will help absorb wage increases and support investment in tea production.
COP31: Limiting 1.5°C overshoot, speeding up electrification emerge as top priorities
Limiting the duration and extent of a global temperature overshoot beyond the 1.5°C threshold and accelerating electrification have emerged as key priorities at COP31 in Antalya. The Turkiye-Australia leadership wants these issues included in the conference's negotiated cover decision, while also demonstrating that international cooperation on climate action remains effective.
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Most Americans want new Democratic Congress to end Trump's Iran war, Reuters/Ipsos poll finds
A new Reuters/Ipsos poll reveals that many Americans desire Congress to end the war with Iran. Support for repealing tariffs imposed by the Trump administration is also significant among respondents. Both Democrats and Republicans expressed a need for bipartisan cooperation on addressing cost of living issues. Concerns about potential impeachment proceedings against Trump were also noted among poll participants.
How many people could die from El Niño worldwide? Which American states could face the greatest heat-related risks?
In a significant step, the Climate Impact Lab has launched a tool to forecast deaths from extreme heat exacerbated by El Niño. Alarmingly, India is projected to endure the greatest loss of life, with Indonesia and Brazil also bearing heavy burdens. As temperatures rise globally, the situation remains dire, with the U.S. reporting an alarming increase in heat emergencies this year.
From lab to farm: How Proximal Soilsens is developing a ‘glucometer’ for soil testing
Developed over nearly a decade of research at IIT Bombay, Proximal Soilsens’s patented NutriSense X aims to make laboratory-grade soil testing portable, faster and accessible. The device tests multiple soil parameters in seconds, without requiring electricity or elaborate laboratory infrastructure.
Heat-trapping carbon pollution drops, but scientists cite the Iran war rather than energy progress
This year, global carbon emissions fell by 0.4%, driven by oil supply disruptions from the conflict in Iran. While oil and natural gas emissions experienced notable declines, there was a small uptick in coal emissions. Experts caution that these improvements may not be guaranteed, attributing them primarily to external influences.
Global climate talks open with big questions, smaller goals
Climate negotiators from nearly 200 countries are attending COP31 in Antalya, Turkey, to address rising global temperatures and emissions. The summit will focus on achieving existing commitments rather than making ambitious new goals amidst geopolitical tensions and financial constraints.
US: Senate advances sweeping energy legislation in first major action since midterm elections
The Senate voted 73-25 to formally take up the bill, which senators and the president have pushed as a way to meet growing demand for electricity and other forms of energy that now face yearslong delays in getting to the grid.
Climate finance remains key friction point as COP31 opens in Turkiye's Antalya
COP31 commenced in Antalya, where climate finance was added to the agenda after negotiations. Developed countries opposed the proposal for a dedicated discussion on adaptation finance. Concerns were raised regarding the weakening trust among nations over the inclusion process. The African Group's suggestion for increased adaptation finance was notably rejected. As COP31 emphasizes implementation, delegates stressed that financial support is essential for achieving climate goals.
Growing demand, demographics, digital agenda & energy security are long-term and secular tailwinds for India: Macquarie’s Ed Northam
Head of green Investments for the Australia’s largest asset manager said the firm is looking to reboot its India operations. While renewables will remain the biggest focus, industrial energy transition and E-mobility will be other key areas, he said. Since 2005, Green Investments group has deployed over $21 billion across 94 investments worldwide.
Indian sector of Southern Ocean sees rising oxygen levels, contrary to global trend: Study
Research reveals that oxygen levels in the Indian sector of the Southern Ocean increased significantly from 1993 to 2025. This rise is attributed to enhanced ocean ventilation processes affecting the deeper water layers. Results indicate that the Antarctic Zone experienced notable increases in dissolved oxygen concentration. Observations show a retreat of winter water layers, indicating changes in ocean structure.
Climate finance, trade likely to be on COP31 table
COP31, scheduled to occur in Antalya from November 9-20, will address significant climate finance and trade issues. Discussions include the funding developed countries owe to developing nations for climate change adaptation. The African Group aims to formalize financial support strategies and assess funding needs for climate initiatives. Additionally, proposals regarding the impact of climate-related trade measures on developing countries have been put forward.
Environmental groups embrace AI, even as they warn of data center impacts
Environmental organisations are increasingly leveraging artificial intelligence to enhance conservation efforts and analyze ecological data. Many express concerns about the environmental impact caused by data centers that support AI technologies. The energy and water consumption of these centers is projected to double by 2030, raising emissions concerns.
Activists breach Microsoft data centre construction site as protests spread in Europe
Activist groups have announced actions in 16 countries on Friday and Saturday, according to the "Stop Dirty Data Centres" coalition, which is rallying environmental groups and digital rights campaigns behind calls to pause large-scale construction.
Investors in other markets would be envious of India multiples: Rich Handler, chief executive of Jefferies
Jefferies CEO Rich Handler believes Indian equities remain reasonably valued despite the market correction and says easing long-term capital gains taxes could attract foreign investors. He sees opportunities in India's AI and data centre sectors, argues that global capital outflows reflect external pressures, and believes concerns about an AI bubble warrant a healthy pause rather than alarm.
'A beautifully American story': El-Sayed's historic Senate victory resonates with Muslim Americans
Abdul El-Sayed's recent election to the U.S. Senate signifies a notable milestone for American Muslim political engagement. Despite facing anti-Muslim rhetoric during the campaign, he won support for his policies and values. His victory is viewed as a rejection of hate and discrimination against Muslim Americans. Residents of Dearborn expressed pride in seeing an individual representative of their community elected to office.
Microfinance lenders tread cautiously amid rural stress
The microfinance sector experienced varied performance in the second quarter of FY27, reflecting economic uncertainty. Bandhan Bank and CreditAccess Grameen saw declines in their microfinance portfolios, while IndusInd Bank grew its portfolio. Lenders are concerned about the impact of drought and inflation on rural borrowers. Estimates for the sector's growth varied between credit information companies, indicating inconsistencies. Collection discipline has improved, but localized climate disruptions continue to pose risks.
World leaders who sparred with Trump express relief mixed with caution at Republican election rout
World leaders welcomed the Democrats' gains in the US midterm elections, hoping the setback for Donald Trump's Republicans could ease tensions over Washington's foreign policy. However, European and other allies cautioned that the results may not change Trump's approach to Iran, Ukraine, tariffs or NATO, as the president retains considerable freedom in foreign affairs.
COP31: EU FTA on horizon, but India won't budge on CBAM
India's environment minister Bhupender Yadav reaffirmed the country's opposition to trade-linked barriers at COP31. The upcoming negotiations will focus on the EU's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism affecting various Indian sectors. Participation in carbon markets should remain voluntary, according to Yadav. Additionally, India emphasizes the importance of climate finance from developed nations.
Green-debt fees hit nearly $3 billion, topping fossil fuels for fifth year
For the fifth consecutive year, leading global banks generated more revenue from green projects than fossil fuel financing. Data shows these banks earned approximately $3 billion from climate-related financing this year. Major players include Bank of China, BNP Paribas, and Deutsche Bank for green bonds. However, US banks dominated the fossil fuel financing deals, led by Wells Fargo and JPMorgan.
US midterm elections 2026: Inside the $11.6 billion money war for Senate control as battleground races heat up
Campaign spending for the US Senate elections in 2026 is expected to surpass $11.6 billion. Both Democrats and Republicans are strategically investing in key battleground states to influence outcomes. The races in Texas and several Republican-held states are drawing significant financial resources from political action committees and wealthy donors. While increased spending can enhance visibility, it does not guarantee voter support or electoral success.
UK PM Burnham says he is 'open' to formal apology for slavery, but rules out reparations
British Prime Minister Andy Burnham expressed openness to a formal apology for Britain's role in slavery. He also suggested a structured dialogue with those affected by the transatlantic slave trade. Despite this, Burnham rejected calls for financial reparations, citing the liability of current British citizens. Caribbean leaders are expected to advocate for reparations during the upcoming Commonwealth summit.
UP looks beyond Lucknow to boost startups, MSMEs as Aavishkaar, Intellecap partner with Invest UP
With more than 11.5 million MSMEs across the state, Uttar Pradesh is looking beyond its established startup centres to build a wider enterprise ecosystem. A new Invest UP partnership with Aavishkaar Foundation and Intellecap aims to take capital, advisory support and market connections closer to entrepreneurs across its districts.
Ixigo co-founder Rajnish Kumar launches Rs 1 cr fund for IIT Kanpur startups
The fund will support 10 technology-led startups from each graduating batch, with Rs 10 lakh in non-dilutive prototype funding for every selected startup, Kumar said in a statement.
Trump says he's ending restrictions on climate-warming methane from oil drilling
US President Donald Trump has announced the termination of a Biden-era rule aimed at reducing methane emissions from oil and gas operations, arguing that the move will save energy producers and consumers $45 billion. The rollback would ease restrictions on oil and gas companies, including requirements to detect and repair methane leaks. Environmental groups have criticised the decision, warning it could increase greenhouse gas emissions and undermine efforts to tackle climate change.
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