15 Predictions for 2025

We don’t know exactly what will happen to the planet in 2025, of course, but we have a pretty good idea. On the down side, we know it’s likely to get hotter, the weather will be more extreme, and biodiversity will be pushed to the limit. But we also know that good things will happen — more innovations will be discovered and scaled, more young people will clamor for a more secure future, and legal challenges will force judicial precedents on how we treat Earth going forward.

We also know with some degree of certainty that there will be a landmark conference — COP30 in Brazil (Belem) in November — in which countries will be required to divulge their NDCs (Nationally Determined Contributions) — basically national climate action plans. Blue Planet Alliance will be there in November, as well as in France (Nice) in June for the UN Ocean Conference.

And we will have two more cohorts of our Fellowship Program, bringing 20 more island countries or territories to Hawaii to show them how we helped lead the Aloha State to legally mandate a transition to 100% renewable energy. That will mean 48 islands will have come through our program — what better way to take the lead as traditional powers abdicate such responsibility.

Still, here’s a look at what we think is likely to happen in 15 different categories this year in the climate space.

1. It’s Getting Hot in Here

Global average temperatures are likely to remain on an upward trajectory. We may edge closer to, or briefly exceed, the 1.5°C threshold above pre-industrial levels due to human emissions.

2. An Umbrella Won’t Be Enough

As climate patterns continue to shift, more frequent and intense heatwaves, droughts, wildfires, and hurricanes can be expected.

3. Solar — Through the Roof

Solar, wind, and battery-storage capacity will likely expand significantly, driven by falling costs and national commitments to clean energy.

4. Dinosaur Juice

Some regions may experience a decline in coal and oil usage as renewable energy continues to expand, but global emissions are unlikely to drop drastically unless major policy shifts occur.

5. Carbon! Carbon! Get Your Carbon!

We’re likely to see an increase in carbon-pricing schemes and emissions-trading systems, particularly in countries aiming to meet net-zero pledges.

6. Target Practice

Countries and companies with 2030 or 2050 net-zero commitments will intensify their efforts, with 2025 being a key milestone year for progress checks.

7. H? Oh!

Hydrogen economy: There will be an expansion of green-hydrogen projects, as countries explore alternatives for decarbonizing heavy industries and transportation.

8. Joining the Dodo

Devastatingly, vulnerable species will likely be lost, as they — and the ecosystems they’re in — struggle to adapt to rapid changes.

9. Habitat Loss

Similar to No. 8 above, ongoing threats to biodiversity due to deforestation, overexploitation, and climate-related disruptions will lead to a loss of land.

10. Going Electric

Electric vehicle (EV) adoption will accelerate, with many manufacturers expanding their product lines and governments offering incentives for EV use.

11. Put Down That Burger

Increased public interest in sustainable living, such as plant-based diets, energy-efficient appliances, and reduced waste practices, will proliferate.

12. Climate Migration

Rising sea levels and extreme weather could displace millions, particularly in low-lying coastal regions and islands.

13. All Hail the Inventors

New scientific discoveries and advances in climate modeling or mitigation strategies may emerge, offering hope for managing climate risks more effectively.

14. They Shall Be Led by a Child

Continued momentum from younger generations demanding action on climate change, with larger global movements and protests, will counter government inaction.

15. So Sue Me

We could see landmark cases in 2025, in which court rulings set significant precedents, pushing policymakers and corporations toward more aggressive climate action.