Harvard Halts SCoPEx Project in Sápmi Lands

Harvard’s “SCoPEx” solar geoengineering experiment, which sprays chemicals into the atmosphere to reflect sunlight, was halted in Sweden’s Indigenous Sápmi region following opposition from Sámi leaders. The school did not obtain informed consent from the Sámi people, and the decision underscores the need for equitable and rightsbased approaches in climate intervention.

“Rights of Nature” Movement Growing

A worldwide movement to recognize ecosystem rights is gaining traction, with Ecuador leading the way. These innovative laws grant natural entities like ecosystems and species the same legal standing as non-human entities such as corporations. Ecuador’s Constitutional Court notably applies the “precautionary principle,” demanding that government officials avoid potential environmental damage until there is enough scientific certainty to prevent irreversible harm.

Turning Steel Plant Waste Into Sustainable Concrete

British start-up Cocoon says it has developed a way of taking steel plant waste — a byproduct from newer, greener electric furnaces — and transforming it into a component for sustainable concrete. The development can reduce the amount of cement that is used in concrete by 30-50%, in addition to adding strength to the final product.

Starbucks Opens First 3D-Printed Store

Starbucks has opened its first 3D-printed store in Texas — a rare construction method for commercial use, despite being more common among residential spaces. Using the technology in commercial spaces could mean fewer emissions during the construction phase, as robotic arm technology is more energy-efficient and produces less waste than traditional building methods.

Elon Musk Challenges International Law

Private companies like SpaceX are driving a crucial debate about space sustainability. Their plans for Mars colonies and resource extraction challenge the Outer Space Treaty, potentially requiring its adaptation or discard. This could lead to environmental degradation, inequitable access, and geopolitical conflict if not carefully managed.

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