Sustainability stats: The week in numbers (06/11/14)

What great data did we see in the past seven days? In the latest edition of our popular series, edie takes a look-back at some of the fascinating figures from the worlds of energy, waste and water.


It was a week that began with that stark Synthesis Report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) – the most important assessment of global warming yet. The report concluded that climate change is happening, it’s almost entirely man’s fault and limiting its impacts will involve phasing out fossil fuels by 2100. 

The week then preceded to be dominated by water news. A report from a Nasa scientist warned that dwindling groundwater stores were ‘highly likely to be a flashpoint for conflict’, while the UK government and the National Audit Office became embroiled in a war of words over Britain’s flood defences.

There were stories both positive and negative for the car industry, as Business Secretary Vince Cable opened an enormous green vehicle hub in Warwick, but manufacturers came under fire for their misleading fuel efficiency figures.

Finally the week ended with World Paper Free Day, inspiring edie to bring you six actionable tips to save paper in your office.

This image list rounds up these industry plot lines with illustrative key numbers and accompanying links for each of the big stories in case you missed them. Click the pic for the full news story.

Brad Allen

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