Meanwhile, countries such as the United States, China or India are stepping up development of their mining potential. In 2024, China initiated construction of new coal-fired power plants with a total capacity of 94.5 gigawatts, the highest level of new investment in such infrastructure in more than a decade. In addition, previously suspended projects with a capacity of 3.3 gigawatts have resumed. The European Commission is easing Green Deal regulations to please Latin American trading partners, despite environmental disasters in the region. The decision is generating controversy and criticism, revealing the EC's double standards.