American Shift: Withdrawal from the Paris Agreement, Open Doors to the Fossil Fuels

21.01.2025

amerika-zastava — Foto-ilustracija: Unsplash (Manny Becerra)

The United States will withdraw from the 2015 Paris Climate Agreement, marking one of the first moves by the new administration of President Donald Trump. This is not the first time such a withdrawal has occurred—the U.S. previously exited the agreement during Trump’s prior term, although the accord was still in its early stages of implementation at that time.

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Lukas Juhas)

This decision reaffirms the administration’s focus on energy production through fossil fuels, justified by the argument that increased oil and gas exploitation will reduce the high cost of living for citizens. This reasoning reflects the stance of the previous term, which viewed such agreements as unfavorable and as a drag on the economy. However, environmental experts warn that this pivot could significantly increase greenhouse gas emissions and hinder global efforts to combat climate change, given that the U.S. is one of the largest polluters.

As one of the wealthiest countries in the world, the U.S. withdrawal from the Paris Agreement, much like in 2017, could impact other nations by reducing financial contributions to the Green Climate Fund, as current policies generally aim to cut climate-related expenditures.

Consequently, this decision calls into question previously set targets, such as the U.S. commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 61–66 percent by 2035 compared to 2005 levels—a goal that will now be unattainable under the new policies.

Among the latest executive orders, measures from the previous administration have been rolled back, including bans on oil drilling in the Alaska and certain coastal areas. This opens the door for accelerated exploration of new oil and gas fields, alarming environmental groups. They argue that drilling, extraction, and subsequent use of these fuels will intensify climate change, with shrinking permanent ice and rising sea levels as ongoing consequences.

As previously reported, this shift also raises questions about the U.S.’s geopolitical influence in the Arctic, particularly following the president’s statements on the need to „acquire Greenland”. Greenland, a gateway to the Arctic, is rich in resources, energy reserves, and minerals, many of which remain largely untapped due to the presence of permanent ice. However, as glaciers thin, access to potentially abundant energy reserves becomes easier. For the U.S., interest in Greenland could represent a long-term strategic move to secure a stronger position in the Arctic race with other nations and enhance energy stability while gaining greater control over key maritime passages.

The U.S. withdrawal from climate agreements is already prompting a reevaluation of global strategies. Some countries, such as Argentina, have announced plans to revise their climate agendas, according to international media reports. The concern lies in the ripple effect of U.S. policies on other nations, potentially weakening international cooperation in combating climate change, particularly among major polluters whose policies do not align with such agreements.

Energy portal

European People’s Party: Climate Goals Must Align with EU Industry Preservation

21.01.2025

industry-industrija — Foto - ilustracija: Pixabay

Over the past decades, the European Union has achieved significant success by creating a single market, reducing trade barriers within Europe, and establishing global trade agreements. This progress has led to economic growth, job creation for citizens, and increased competitiveness for European companies.

However, since the start of the 21st century, growth in Europe has slowed compared to other global regions. For instance, the GDP gap between the US and the EU widened from 17 percent in 2002 to 30 percent in 2023.

Representatives of the European People’s Party (EPP) warn that the primary reason for the weakening domestic economy is the substantial pressure created by complex administration and numerous obligations related to climate goals.

Referring to a report by Mario Draghi, former president of the European Central Bank, titled The Future of European Competitiveness, the EPP highlights that strict regulations continue to impose burdens on the economy, particularly on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

EPP leaders gathered on January 17-18 at a summit in Berlin to shape the EU’s future through a „determined, ambitious, and comprehensive agenda of deregulation and simplification”.

In a joint document, key leaders such as European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, likely future German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, and Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo propose a return to policies that dominated before 2019, prior to the onset of the green wave of policies, Euractiv reports.

Reducing Regulations and Easing Climate Policy

More than half of SMEs in Europe identify regulatory barriers and administrative burdens as their biggest challenges. Although regulations can benefit companies by harmonizing various national and technical rules, the EPP emphasizes that they also impose numerous additional obligations and burdens, accumulating over time.

Moreover, while the EU has adopted ambitious climate goals and policies for achieving them, their implementation must not lead to the deindustrialization of Europe, the EPP warns.

If climate policies hinder competitiveness and growth, they will not only lose the support of European citizens but also risk increasing global emissions as industries relocate to regions with higher emissions.

Another burden on the European economy is the high cost of electricity and natural gas. The party notes that access to affordable energy is a key prerequisite for growth and job creation, while EU companies currently face electricity prices that are two to three times higher than in the US, with natural gas prices up to five times higher.

Therefore, EPP representatives support the EU’s intention to leverage all available energy solutions, including renewable energy, nuclear power, hydrogen, bioenergy, and carbon capture, utilization, and storage.

Regarding the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS), the party described it as a straightforward system that encourages market efficiency and reduces carbon emissions. However, they added that excessive regulations, such as mandatory renovations for homeowners, are unnecessary.

To address high energy costs, a larger portion of ETS revenues should be allocated to energy-intensive industries, such as support for green hydrogen or carbon capture and storage solutions. In this context, the party welcomes the Commission’s plan for a „Clean Industry Deal”, which aims to combine green growth with industrial competitiveness on a global level.

The Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) must also be examined for its effects on bureaucracy and competitiveness across different sectors of the economy.

„If we want the EU to create new growth and jobs, the European Commission, as well as the European Parliament, the Council, and national and local authorities, must show restraint regarding every new regulation. This requires a new way of thinking. Not every good idea needs to become law—EU efforts should focus on major issues rather than regulating every aspect of people’s lives. This is how the EU’s successful story of the past decades can remain successful in the future”, the party states.

Milena Maglovski

The Battle for Dominance in Greenland – Are Energy Resources and the Arctic Path Shaping the Issue?

20.01.2025

The world’s largest island, Greenland, has recently been gaining increased attention due to political statements, especially those originating from the United States. While Greenland is a self-governing autonomous territory, it remains part of the Kingdom of Denmark, which means that the Danish government retains authority over major governance and international relations. Greenland is situated in a highly strategic location—on the shortest route from North America to Europe. Beyond Europe, it is also a gateway to the Arctic, making it no surprise that it has caught the interest of the United States, a crucial partner for Denmark in both trade and geopolitics. This further complicates the consequences of statements and claims originating from across the Atlantic.

Greenland’s geographical position in the Arctic Circle is pivotal in understanding the long-term plans of global powers. Although three-quarters of this territory is covered in ice, Greenland has historical ties to Europe but can today be seen as a separate entity, particularly considering the potential exploitation of its hidden natural resources. The melting glaciers caused by climate change are increasingly opening access to potentially vast reserves of oil, gas, and rare minerals. Beyond the obvious energy significance, this could offer significant economic benefits to any nation that invests in exploration. Furthermore, the retreating Arctic ice is shortening maritime routes between major global markets, presenting new economic advantages.

Mentions of Greenland in political discourse are also closely tied to questions of Arctic rights and territorial claims. With Greenland as a base, Denmark secures a claim to a portion of the Arctic, which is also strategically important to the United States. On a global scale, the Arctic has become a hotspot for the interests of major powers due to its massive reserves of natural resources and its strategic location that facilitates control over the region.

The Arctic itself is not owned by any single nation, but several countries—the United States (via Alaska), Canada, Russia, Norway, Denmark (via Greenland), and Iceland—can, under United Nations rules, claim to expand their exclusive economic zones. According to UNCLOS (the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea of 1982), each state has an exclusive economic zone (EEZ) extending up to 200 nautical miles (approximately 370 kilometers) from its coasts, where it has exclusive rights to the sea’s resources and can expand its continental shelf up to 350 nautical miles if a geological connection to the mainland is proven. The convention also defines territorial waters up to 12 nautical miles and establishes mechanisms for resolving disputes. However, the United States has yet to ratify this convention, which creates additional legal and political tensions.

Russia, on the other hand, is actively working to prove that the seabed of the Arctic Ocean is an extension of its Siberian continental shelf in order to secure additional rights to exploration under these rules. Norway, Denmark, and Canada are also developing their own strategies to define rights to Arctic space. The result of such competition is a complex legal and geopolitical situation, where major players are vying for control over resources and maritime routes.

With glaciers thinning, access to potentially rich energy reserves becomes increasingly feasible. For the United States, interest in Greenland could be a long-term strategic move, securing a stronger position in the Arctic race, bolstering energy stability, and increasing control over crucial maritime passages.

Energy portal

Larvae as a Solution for Pollution and Sustainable Agriculture

19.01.2025

Boris-Vasiljev2 — Photo: courtesy of Boris Vasiljev

Opinions about insects are often divided, ranging from fear to admiration. Some view them as pests and worthless creatures, while others recognize their crucial role in maintaining healthy and balanced ecosystems. It’s also important to mention experts who study insects and discover that they can provide multiple benefits. In fact, some of these tiny creatures can be extremely useful in solving certain environmental challenges that humanity faces. Boris Vasiljev from the Belinda Animals Company reveals how larvae impact the environment and contribute to ecology.

The larvae of the mealworm beetle, or Tenebrio molitor larvae (commonly known as mealworms), play a significant role in sustainable animal feed production, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and preserving the environment through plastic degradation and organic fertilizer production. They are naturally found in grain and mill product storage facilities and can often be found in household environments—such as flour.

These larvae utilize various plant-based wastes, such as silo waste, broken grains, and various animal feed leftovers on farms. Additionally, they consume green plant waste, such as fruits and vegetables unsuitable for sale or use, stale bread, and more. Their usefulness is also evident in their ability to concentrate proteins in their bodies while feeding on plant waste. Compared to cattle, which emit as much as 2,850 grams of greenhouse gases for every kilogram of body mass gained, larvae emit only one gram.

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As Vasiljev points out, cattle, whose meat meal is used in animal feed, emit 2,850 times more CO2 equivalent compared to larvae. Moreover, larvae feed on waste that would otherwise end up in landfills.

Mealworm larvae are rich in proteins (45–60 percent of dry mass), fats (30–45 percent of dry mass), as well as vitamins, omega 3, 6, and 9 fatty acids, and fibers and minerals. This indicates that their nutritional composition is superior to that of other components of animal feed. Practically, protein meals from larvae could completely replace soybean meals and fish meals in poultry, pig, and fish feed.

In addition to being used in animal feed production, these creatures also find their place in agriculture for vegetable and fruit growers. During their cultivation, a type of manure is produced, known globally as FRASS. This includes larvae excrement, food residues, shed skins, and the remains of deceased individuals, which collectively represent high-quality organic microbiological fertilizers. It can be applied as pellets alone or with added mineral fertilizers in various formulations.

Speaking about Serbia, Vasiljev notes that the cultivation of Tenebrio larvae is still a topic discussed mainly in scientific circles. Their team is preparing to organize mass education and training for this cultivation, as insect protein is officially approved for animal feed in Serbia.

Prepared by Katarina Vuinac

The story was published in the Energy portal Magazine ECOLOGICAL TRANSPORT.

Balkan Solar Summit 2025 – Shaping the Future of Sustainable Energy

19.01.2025

The third Balkan Solar Summit will take place in Banja Luka on February 27-28, 2025, gathering over 500 industry leaders, decision-makers, investors, and experts from across the region, including Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Serbia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Slovenia, and beyond.

The event’s mission is to shape the future of sustainable energy, and this year’s program includes carefully selected topics that highlight the region’s most pressing challenges and opportunities.

Panels and lectures will cover all aspects of the energy transition – from the green transformation of companies and challenges in project financing structures to energy system stability and the potential of energy storage systems.

Discussions on these critical topics will be led by prominent experts, including Uroš Bojanić (EFT), Ranko Goić (FRACTAL), Marko Janković (CWP Europe), Luka Okuka (SCC – Security Coordination Centre), Patar Mitrović (Karanovic & Partners), Aldin Međedović (UNDP), Vladimir Rajić (Integrity Capital), and many others who will engage in dynamic and constructive conversations, offering insights and solutions to the most pressing questions of the region’s energy transition.

Special attention will be given to practical experiences and examples, such as the completion of major renewable energy projects in the region. Leading experts will also discuss the integration of renewable energy sources into the power grid and the role of technologies like battery solutions. Key challenges, such as the implementation of the CBAM regulation and its role as either an incentive or obstacle for decarbonization, will also be explored.

Additionally, a side event titled “From Waste to Energy and Decarbonization” will feature leading EU companies presenting innovative waste-to-energy solutions that have made their cities among the most energy-sustainable in the world.

Balkan Solar Summit 2025 is not only an opportunity to learn and exchange ideas but also a platform to connect with key stakeholders and initiate concrete projects. The event sets new standards for promoting sustainable solutions and invites everyone who wants to be part of the green energy future to join.

For more information, visit here.

Energy portal

Drive Electric

18.01.2025

elektric+car+vehicle — Photo-illustration: Pexels (David Gallie)

Although electromobility has well-known advantages, often discussed in the media, it’s equally essential to highlight its challenges, uncertainties, and concerns. The rise in electric and hybrid vehicles globally has raised important safety questions, especially concerning fire risks.

Although the overall fire risk is lower compared to conventional vehicles, the flammability of batteries presents a significant challenge. The difficulty of extinguishing such fires and the possibility of re-ignition remain critical safety issues in e-mobility. For this reason, we spoke with Zorana Đorić, the manager of the Drive Electric initiative, to help us understand what must not be overlooked when dealing with battery-powered vehicles.

„Statistics show that for every 10 million electric vehicles, about 500 fires are recorded. This means the probability of fire in electric vehicles is 29 times lower than in vehicles with internal combustion engines”, explains Zorana.

However, despite the lower probability, fires in electric vehicles require a much quicker response than in traditional cars. Fires in electric vehicles spread faster, and emergency services often cannot respond within the required timeframe. Moreover, the same fire suppression methods used for conventional vehicles cannot be applied to electric ones. Traditional cars can be extinguished using standard techniques, but battery cooling methods are required for electric vehicles.

Consequently, the global community and individual countries must develop new, more effective safety technologies. While advancements are already being made worldwide, anyone opting for an electric vehicle must acquire the necessary knowledge to handle it properly. One key piece of information for electric vehicle owners is the Emergency Sheet, which indicates the position of safety switches that disconnect the vehicle from power.

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This document contains essential safety information for handling the vehicle in emergencies, including the location of the battery, instructions for turning off main electrical switches to minimize the risk of electric shock, safe points for cutting the vehicle to facilitate rescue operations, and guidelines for effective fire suppression. This sheet is also a critical resource for emergency responders.

Owners must also familiarize themselves with indicator lights, which differ significantly from those found in vehicles with internal combustion engines. These lights warn of faults or conditions that may endanger the driver.

„Electric vehicles are now part of our present and are becoming more common in cities worldwide. It’s human nature to resist the unfamiliar, but that doesn’t exempt us from understanding safety systems and acquiring the necessary knowledge to protect ourselves and others”, Zorana emphasizes.

Professional Training Programs

The Drive Electric team has been involved in electromobility for six years, primarily through technical innovation. They organized the First Battery Conference and the International Symposium on E-Mobility. Over time, however, they realized the need to go further, leading to the creation of the Green Drive Academy. The academy aims to provide in-depth knowledge of systems, technical details, and medical aspects, highlight potential hazards, and explain the differences between electric and conventional vehicles.

The team comprises licensed professionals specializing in electric vehicle maintenance and repair, court experts, mechanical and electrical engineers, and medical experts responsible for health recommendations and safety advice. To conclude, Zorana emphasizes that electromobility has arrived, and we must familiarize ourselves with all its aspects. Her advice: „Be responsible”.

Prepared by Milica Vučković

The story was published in the Energy portal Magazine ECOLOGICAL TRANSPORT.

UNEP Reports: Methane Leak Following Nord Stream Explosions Among Largest in History

17.01.2025

manuel-keller-97jM6y9UFkk-unsplash — Photo-illustration: Unsplash (manuel-keller)

Nord Stream refers to the underwater pipeline system transporting natural gas from Russia to Europe, spanning 1,200 kilometers beneath the Baltic Sea. This system directly connected Russian gas resources with European markets, bypassing transit countries and delivering gas directly to Germany.

In September 2022, a significant event shook the global energy sector—explosions caused the rupture of the pipeline under the Baltic Sea. During the series of explosions, at least 50 meters of underwater cables were destroyed. The incident not only triggered political turmoil and investigations but also disrupted gas supplies and had profound environmental consequences.

A recent study coordinated by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) revealed that this was the largest anthropogenic methane leak in history.

According to estimates, up to 485,000 tons of methane were released—twice the volume previously considered the largest historical release.

This vast amount of methane contributed to global warming at a scale equivalent to the emissions from eight million cars over a year. While methane remains in the atmosphere for about a decade, its heat-trapping potential is over 80 times greater than that of carbon dioxide, the most common greenhouse gas.

The study highlighted that such events are only a fraction of the broader issue, as the pipeline explosion accounted for just two days’ worth of methane emissions from the global oil and gas industry.

Energy portal

How Solar Companies Are Responding to Global Challenges

15.01.2025

In the world of renewable energy, the solar industry is undergoing dynamic changes shaping its future development. Intense competition among panel manufacturers, rising investor expectations, and technological innovations raise numerous questions about market sustainability and the prospects for solar power plants. We spoke with Nino Sijerić, a business development expert at Luxor Solar GmbH, a company known for its high-quality photovoltaic modules, about the challenges and trends in the industry, key criteria for panel selection, and the importance of trust in relationships between investors, EPC companies, and manufacturers.

The solar panel market is going through a turbulent period—fierce competition among manufacturers has led to price drops and reduced profitability. How will this trend impact European manufacturers in the coming years?

“This trend will lead to market consolidation. Some companies will exit the market, while others will change ownership. Investors will become more cautious when selecting partners and will work only with proven companies. The current situation in the solar power market creates a lot of uncertainty in decision-making. Today, investors do not only choose modules and contractors; the reputation of the company behind the product is equally important. If price becomes the main decision factor, investors will face long-term issues—’pay a little now, pay a lot later.'”

What characteristics must a company have to survive in such a challenging period?

“Flexibility is the key word. Quick responses and adaptability to market changes will be crucial. I call this ‘photovoltaic Darwinism’—it’s not the biggest or strongest that will survive but the one that adapts the fastest to market needs. Speed in decision-making and innovation will be of essential importance. For example, products tailored to the specific needs of clients will help them choose the optimal solution more easily.”

The market now offers numerous models of solar panels with varying prices and quality. How would you advise buyers to make the best choice?

“When choosing solar panels, buyers should consider several key factors to ensure maximum return on investment and long-term benefits: Price – It’s important to find a balance between price, efficiency, and warranties. The cheapest panels aren’t always the best solution. Quality – Opting for reputable manufacturers often means better after-sales support and assurance of panel longevity. Efficiency – A higher efficiency level means fewer panels are needed to generate the same amount of energy. Warranty – Most panels come with a 25-year energy production warranty, and some offer longer warranties on the product itself. Buyers should definitely consult experts and installers to assess their energy needs and select the best product. In the long run, quality will always outweigh low cost.”

IN FOCUS:

How important is it for buyers to know which company stands behind their modules?

“Knowing the manufacturer of solar panels is crucial for making informed decisions and ensuring the long-term value of an investment. The quality and reliability of panels are intrinsically linked to the reputation of the manufacturer, as it reflects the performance and durability of the product. Warranties play a critical role in investment security – it’s especially important to know whether they are tied to a company based in the European Union or China.

Reputable manufacturers often provide top-tier support for maintenance and servicing throughout the panel’s lifecycle, significantly enhancing their longevity. Additionally, ethical principles and sustainability practices are increasingly important factors in the selection process, as today’s buyers value companies operating in alignment with sustainable practices.

The financial stability of the manufacturer is also crucial. Companies with a long-standing market presence and consistent ownership structures provide added security and trust. All this information allows buyers to choose panels that deliver optimal performance and lasting value for their investment.”

Last year, solar energy was the leading form of renewable energy in terms of new installations. Will changes in the solar panel market affect its further development?

“Solar power plants will remain a key energy source and an essential part of countries’ renewable energy supply. However, in the future, we will face challenges such as grid balancing. Some countries are already producing up to 60 percent of their energy from solar sources during the summer, which sometimes creates a surplus the grid cannot absorb. The solution will be energy storage in batteries, which would allow the use of surplus energy when the sun is not shining and ease the burden on the grid system.

Once batteries achieve technological maturity and a lifespan of 20 or more years, the solar revolution will truly take off—every household or factory will be able to achieve energy independence.”

How can mutual trust be ensured between investors, EPC companies, and solar panel manufacturers?

“Trust is built on experience and proven results. The more satisfied users of solar power plants there are, the greater the trust in the technology and contractors. Panel manufacturers gain trust through their performance. For example, at the same location and with identical inverter systems, an investor using Chinese TIER 1 modules had 20 percent lower energy production than one who used Luxor modules. When that percentage is multiplied over 20 years, it becomes clear why trust in quality is crucial—not only in terms of the panels but also in terms of contractor recommendations.”

Interviewed by: Milena Maglovski

The interview was published in the new issue of the Energy portal Magazine RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS

From Gas Power Plants to 1,200 MW of Renewable Energy: Romania’s Projects for 2025

14.01.2025

ondrej-bocek-8-RgN9zKfpc-unsplash — Photo-illustration: Unsplash (ondrej-bocek)

Romania is preparing for several significant projects in the energy sector in 2025.

In the current global context, where energy security becomes increasingly critical, particularly due to situations such as the disruption of Russian gas supplies via Ukraine, Romania underscores the necessity for its energy to be secure, affordable, and environmentally sustainable. The country is actively working to increase its production capacities while aiming to minimize the need for government intervention in regulating energy prices, as stated by the Ministry of Energy. Some projects slated for completion or initiation in 2025 are designed to strengthen the energy infrastructure.

One key example is the completion of the Iernut gas power plant, which is expected to deliver 430 MW to the grid. The plant will feature state-of-the-art combined-cycle technology (gas and steam), achieving higher fuel efficiency and lower emissions compared to older thermal power plants. The completion deadline is set for June 2025.

Next is the construction of the Răstolița hydropower plant, with a 30 MW flexible capacity, along with the Năvodari cogeneration plant of 80 MW. This is a modern gas-powered cogeneration (CHP) plant with a capacity of 80 MW, simultaneously generating electricity and heat. This production method allows for higher overall efficiency compared to separate production processes, as the heat energy, which would otherwise be wasted, is effectively utilized for heating or industrial purposes.

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Asia Chang Yr)

Additionally, through private investments funded by the National Recovery and Resilience Plan, the connection of 1,200 to 1,500 MW of renewable energy sources is expected, along with a doubling of energy storage capacities to 400-500 MWh. This will enable more efficient use of renewables and a more stable grid operation.

Significant expectations are also placed on the Mintia gas thermal power plant, where the first 1,000 MW could become operational by the end of the year, with the total capacity reaching 1,750 MW. The plant is projected to produce about 12,000 GWh of electricity annually, with an estimated operational lifespan of 30 years, according to Romania’s Ministry of Energy. At the end of 2024, the “MASS Mintia” power plant was designated a project of national importance in the field of electricity by the Romanian Government, which facilitates administrative procedures. The energy produced here will not be sold to the Russian Federation or Hungary.

Electrica Group also confirms ambitious plans, announcing two significant tenders for the construction of the Satu Mare 3 solar power plant with a capacity of 62.5 MW and a solar complex with a total capacity of 77.6 MW in the municipalities of Cefa and Mădăraș.

At the end of 2024, Romania launched the “Urban Up” program aimed at promoting energy communities as a vital link in the effective implementation of the energy transition. According to the Ministry of Energy, 150 million lei (over 30 million euros) has been allocated for this program, enabling residential communities to apply for funding to build their own green energy production facilities, recognizing that large residential buildings in cities represent untapped potential.

The Ministry of Energy emphasizes that all these efforts are part of a broader strategy that includes exploring new gas fields, developing a civilian nuclear program, and strengthening domestic production of solar panels and batteries.

Energy portal

The Future of the Labor Market – Green Transition at the Heart of Global Changes

13.01.2025

solar , panel — Photo-illustration: Freepik (freepik)

To meet the climate targets set for 2030, a green transformation of nearly all economic sectors is essential. This ambitious goal will not be achievable without a sufficient number of skilled workers capable of addressing the challenges of the energy transition and the climate crisis.

In an effort to identify the occupations and skills that will be most in demand in the future, the World Economic Forum has published the Future of Jobs Report 2025. This unique document draws on an extensive survey conducted among global employers, providing valuable insights into labor market trends.

The latest edition of the report reflects the views of more than 1,000 employers, collectively employing over 14 million workers across 22 industry clusters and 55 economies worldwide. The result is a highly detailed analysis of emerging jobs and skills that will shape the period from 2025 to 2030.

According to the report’s findings, climate change ranks third among the key trends that will most transform global business operations over the next five years.

These trends highlight an increasing demand for roles such as renewable energy engineers, environmental protection engineers, and specialists in electric and autonomous vehicles, which are among the 15 fastest-growing occupations. Climate change is also driving greater emphasis on environmental management, which for the first time has been ranked among the world’s top 10 most sought-after skills.

The second most transformative trend is the rising cost of living, with half of employers expecting this trend to significantly shape their operations by 2030, despite the projected slowdown in global inflation. These factors will further drive the demand for creativity, adaptability, resilience, and agility—skills that are becoming critical for business success.

Finally, the most transformative trend is the expansion of digital access—60 percent of employers predict that digitalization will significantly reshape their business operations by 2030. Technological advancements in areas such as artificial intelligence, data processing, robotics, and automation, as well as energy solutions like production, storage, and distribution, will further influence the labor market.

Training and Reskilling Essential for a Large Portion of the Workforce

As global labor markets undergo structural transformation, the World Economic Forum estimates that jobs such as administrative assistants, postal and banking service clerks, and data entry operators are among those facing the greatest decline.

Additionally, the report predicts that 39 percent of existing skills will become obsolete or transformed by 2030, although this skills instability has slowed compared to 2020, when it peaked at 57 percent. This trend is partly attributed to a higher percentage of workers (50 percent) who have undergone training, reskilling, or upskilling.

Given the growing demand for new skills, a significant portion of the workforce still requires training or reskilling—if the global workforce were represented by 100 people, 59 would need to undergo training by 2030.

Surveyed companies identified skills gaps as the greatest barrier to business transformation. Accordingly, 85 percent of employers plan to prioritize workforce development, with 70 percent expecting to hire staff with new skills, 40 percent planning to reduce headcount as certain skills become less relevant, and 50 percent intending to provide training for their workforce.

Milena Maglovski

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