The year 2024 proved to be transformative across various sectors, notable for significant advancements and trends. From technology to greentech, climate patterns, and fashion movements, this retrospective look highlights key developments shaping industries and societies as we approach 2025.
One of the most remarkable sectors was DevOps, which continues to drive efficiency and innovation. According to Google’s 2023 Accelerate State of DevOps Report, software delivery performance quality directly predicts organizational and employee performance. Notably, 2024 showcased trends such as the surge of hybrid and multi-cloud adoption and the ramifications of faster Apple Silicon release cycles. Tech companies are increasingly adapting to Apple’s rapid innovation with its M3 chip series and enhanced hardware-software integration which promises superior performance.
The cloud technology sector saw unprecedented growth as global spending exceeded $1 trillion for hybrid models. This shift enhances operational flexibility and boosts disaster recovery capabilities for organizations. The growing demand for platforms operating seamlessly across diverse cloud environments signals the industry's move toward greater integration and performance efficiency.
Concurrently, security protocols gained prominence, particularly as the trend of remote work continued. The demand for secure remote desktop technologies escalated, driven by the need to guard against rising cyber threats and device theft. Companies must maintain compliance with rigorous security regulations, ensuring their remote systems remain resilient and efficient.
Turning to greentech, 2024 reflected substantial progress. Preliminary data pointed to renewables supplying 53% of Dutch electricity, largely propelled by wind and solar initiatives. Legislative support bolstered this transition, even as policies like the discontinuation of solar subsidies prompted more homeowners to disconnect solar panels during surplus production. The imbalance between rising production and insufficient storage capacity created market challenges, leading to instances of negative energy pricing.
Battery technology made headlines too, with the sharp decline in lithium-ion battery prices. BloombergNEF reported this dip at $115 per kilowatt-hour, showcasing the industry's commitment to advancing energy storage solutions. Greentech startups capitalized on these trends, raising $3.5 billion—marking the second-best investment year for tech. Battolyser System raised significant funds to launch its dual-function electrolyzer technology, blending energy storage with hydrogen production, embodying innovation and environmental sustainability.
Even with technological advancements, the energy transition encountered hurdles, like grid congestion impacting growth and efficiency. Simplifying local electricity trading could mitigate these congestion effects as EU ambitions aim for climate neutrality by 2050.
Climate trends also emerged starkly, with 2024 marking one of the warmest years on record, as evidenced by the KNMI climate timeline. Researchers highlighted the human-induced causes of rising temperatures, noting the average for 2024 reached 11.8 degrees Celsius—creating more frequent heat waves and heavy rain. These climate shifts provoke increased urgency for sustainable practices across all sectors. Karin van der Wiel, the climate researcher at KNMI, noted, "The Netherlands is warming, and the shift is predominantly caused by human activities, including the burning of fossil fuels."
Fashion likewise reflected cultural shifts through 2024, characterized by eclectic themes blending history and modern aesthetics. The influence of themes like medieval styles surged, visible at high-profile events such as the MTV Video Music Awards. Designers drew inspiration from historical eras, showcasing creativity and societal engagement. The increasing fascination with styles inspired by earlier periods isn’t merely artistic; it signifies broader cultural dialogues generated by contemporary issues.
Overall, the trends of 2024 highlighted the interconnectedness of technology, greentech, climate change, and cultural phenomena. These trends not only define our present but set the stage for the evolutions awaiting us as we transition to 2025, ensuring we remain vigilant and adaptable.