Inhabitat's Week in Green: Paris climate talks, and more!
Bill Gates had a big week, too.
The COP 21 climate talks kicked off in Paris this week, and President Obama hailed the proceedings as the "turning point" in the fight against climate change. Some of the world's most powerful figures rallied behind the cause: Bill Gates and other tech titans launched a massive clean tech investment fund called the Breakthrough Energy Coalition, while Elon Musk called for a carbon tax to prevent worldwide displacement and destruction. Meanwhile, Mark Zuckerberg celebrated the birth of his daughter Max while announcing plans to dedicate 99 percent of his Facebook shares to create a new philanthropic organization.
The tallest tower in the world just secured funding for construction. When it's complete, Saudi Arabia's Jeddah Tower will stand over 1 kilometer tall, dwarfing the Burj Khalifa. Florida is set to break ground on a futuristic underwater hotel that will use its profits to protect coral reefs. And Singapore just announced plans to transform its disused railways into a 15-mile park that will span the entire nation.
What has 12 propellers, 16 electric motors, takes off like a helicopter and flies like a plane? Meet the Joby S2, a crazy electric aircraft that could revolutionize your commute. Amazon is also taking to the skies with a new delivery drone that could quickly and efficiently deliver packages. In other transportation news, Congress just approved a massive $305 billion bill to fund infrastructural improvements, and New York City announced plans to launch the world's largest fleet of electric municipal vehicles. Did you know $350 million worth of bikes are stolen each year? This week Fortified launched a "Invincible" bike that is guaranteed theft-proof -- if someone does manage to steal it, they'll ship you a new one in 24 hours. Finally, if you're hunting for holiday presents don't miss the 16 tech-tastic gadgets in our Green Holiday Gift Guide.
