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Global decarbonization efforts focus on energy sovereignty and renewable innovation
The transition toward low-carbon economies is increasingly driven by both environmental necessity and energy sovereignty. In Rio de Janeiro, Comlurb has implemented a circular economy model by utilizing biomethane to power its urban cleaning fleet. This initiative uses biogas captured from organic waste at the CTR-Rio treatment center in Seropédica, converting approximately 10,000 tons of daily waste into renewable fuel. This process can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 90% compared to fossil fuels.
On a broader scale, the global energy transition is being accelerated by fossil fuel crises. In Europe, decarbonization is viewed as a matter of energy sovereignty to reduce external vulnerabilities. While solar energy accounted for 75% of the increase in global electricity demand in 2025, the European Commission notes that electricity remains twice as expensive as fossil fuels in 21 member states. Countries like Portugal are actively working to expand solar and wind capacities to ensure competitive and secure energy supplies.
Entities
CTR-Rio · Comlurb · European Commission · Portugal · Rio de Janeiro