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Global Business Leaders Urge Action in Cancun

On November 16, global business leaders representing $15 trillion in assets issued a statement calling for international action in the upcoming UN climate negotiations in Cancun. They argued that a lack of action would result in an economic disruption worse than the recent financial crisis. The statement was organized by the sustainable investment group Ceres and the UN Environment Program Finance Initiative, which represents more than one-quarter of global market capitalization. They called for national and international policies that will encourage investment in low carbon technologies. The statement read: “Private investment will only flow at the scale and pace necessary if it is supported by clear, credible, and long-term policy frameworks that shift the risk-reward balance in favor of less carbon-intensive investment.” The group expressed frustration with the failure of the U.S. government to deliver climate change legislation, saying that investors face rising risks due to the lack of action.

On the same day, business leaders from 250 companies issued the Cancun Communiqué, calling for “an ambitious, robust and equitable global deal on climate change” at the November 29, 2010, UN climate negotiations in Cancun. This statement reiterated a similar rallying call made last year in the Copenhagen Communiqué, which was endorsed by more than 950 companies. The statement argues that businesses want governments to deliver the regulatory framework necessary for business investment in low carbon technology and infrastructure. The statement calls on global leaders to agree to emissions targets, increase climate financing, and establish mechanisms for protecting forests and verifying emissions cuts at the Cancun climate negotiations. It also calls for sectoral, bilateral, or regional agreements that focus on rapid improvements in energy efficiency, low carbon energy systems, carbon capture and storage, and land-use management. Notable signers included business leaders from Nestle, Philips, Royal Dutch Shell, Tesco, and Unilever.

For additional information see: Reuters, Business Green, Business Green, Bloomberg, Los Angeles Times, Ceres Press Release and Statement, Cancun Communiqué

Reid Retracts Commitment to Schedule Vote on EPA’s Greenhouse Gas Authority

On November 16, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) met with Sen. Jay Rockefeller (D-WV) and discussed the likelihood of scheduling a vote on Rockefeller’s bill to delay the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) authority to regulate greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. On September 14, Reid publicly promised Rockefeller a vote on his bill. However, before Tuesday’s meeting, Reid announced that he will no longer commit to scheduling the vote before the end of this year because there may not be enough time during the “lame-duck” session of the out going Congress. Rockefeller said he feared Republicans could purge key components of his proposal if it is introduced next year when the new Congress convenes. A new Republican majority in the House of Representatives makes it more likely that a similar bill to delay EPA regulation of GHG emissions will pass next year. If Rockefeller’s bill does not pass during the current lame-duck session, EPA will begin regulating GHG emissions on January 2, 2011.

For additional information see: Reuters, Washington Independent, Politico, The Hill

EPA: Fuel Efficiency Increases for Sixth Consecutive Year

On November 17, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released its 2010 Fuel Economy Trends Report showing that cars and light trucks sold in the United States during the 2010 model year had an average fuel efficiency of 22.5 miles per gallon (mpg), up from 22.4 mpg for model year 2009. Average fuel efficiency has increased for six consecutive years; however, efficiency levels are still well below the corporate average fuel economy (CAFE) goal of 35.5 mpg set by the Obama administration for 2016. The increase in fuel efficiency drove down carbon dioxide emissions per mile from 397 grams in 2009 to 395 grams in 2010.

For additional information see: Wall Street Journal, EPA Press Release

Schwarzenegger Gains Traction with Regional Climate Action Pact

On November 15, California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger convened his third and final climate summit in an effort to secure financing for projects that reduce carbon emissions in developing and developed nations. Schwarzenegger launched a partnership known as R20, which will finance renewable energy projects in developing countries, with the support of the World Bank and private corporations. The R20 concept also received support from the U.S. Department of State and the UN Climate Chief. Schwarzenegger furthered his climate initiative by signing agreements with regional governments in Mexico and Brazil to begin pilot projects to protect tropical forests, and allow the forest owners to sell carbon offsets to polluting companies in California. “We want the national governments to continue on in the negotiations and move forward,” Schwarzenegger said. “But I think that all great movements start on the grassroots level, so I think that we start on the local level, the state level and move up and put the pressure on national governments to get the job done.”

For additional information see Reuters, Associated Press, Guardian, Dow Jones Newswire

Canadian Senators Vote Down Climate Bill

On November 16, Conservative Canadian Senators called a surprise vote on pending climate change legislation in the absence of more than 15 Liberal Senators, and defeated the bill by a margin of 43 to 32. The Climate Change Accountability Act would have given Canada a plan of action going into international climate negotiations in Cancun, scheduled to begin November 29. The bill calls for a 25 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from 1990 levels by 2020, and passed the House of Commons in May. The Senators argued that policies needed to be more in line with the United States because of close trading ties. New Democratic Party leader Jack Layton was outraged at the vote, saying, “to take power that doesn’t rightfully belong to them to kill a bill that has been adopted by a majority of the House of Commons representing a majority of Canadians is as wrong as it gets when it comes to democracy in this country.” This was the first time that the unelected Conservative Senators used their near-majority to kill a bill passed by the House of Commons.

For additional information see:The Chronicle Herald, Toronto Globe and Mail, BBC

Support Grows to Reduce Hydroflourocarbons through Montreal Protocol

On November 12, 91 countries signed a declaration of support for the Montreal Protocol to address hydroflourocarbons (HFCs) during climate talks in Bangkok. Earlier this year, two amendments to the Montreal Protocol were proposed that would phase out the production and use of HFCs — a replacement for chloroflourocarbons and greenhouse gases that are thousands of times more potent than carbon dioxide (CO2). The Federated States of Micronesia along with the United States, Mexico, Canada, and many others supported these proposals. According to the Institute for Governance and Sustainable Development, more countries are expected to endorse the declaration in the run-up to the UN climate negotiations scheduled to begin November 29, 2010 in Cancun. The proposed change in the Protocol would cut the equivalent of 100 billion tons of CO2 by 2050. India, China, and Brazil — the largest producers of HFCs — did not sign the declaration, instead asking for further discussion in a mid-year meeting in 2011. Some scientists claim that eliminating HFCs could significantly slow climate change, giving major economies more time to shift away from fossil fuel use.

For additional information see:New York Times, Nature, Business Green

Cameron Urges More Unified Climate Action Ahead of Cancun

On November 16, UK Prime Minister David Cameron argued that fragmented approaches to tackling climate change would not cut greenhouse gas emissions sufficiently, and that global action was needed to make substantial progress. While he acknowledged that a global treaty was unlikely to occur during December’s climate negotiations in Cancun, he still urged the U.S. and Chinese governments to take action to set the stage for a global, legally binding deal. “To get a proper international deal, we need the Chinese to really agree to proper monitoring and evaluation and recording of their emissions,” Cameron said during this week’s climate summit organized by California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. “But we also… need to persuade the American administration that it is worthwhile to have a deal that they enter into, as part of the rest of the world all making offers.” He went on to say, “we need to work towards a global deal, otherwise we’re all going to do our own individual bit. If we can’t get the whole of the US and China on board, we’re not going to get the kind of action we need to prevent dangerous climate change.”

For additional information see:Business Green, Agence France-Presse

China Considers Cap and Trade to Cut Greenhouse Gas Emissions

On November 17, Chinese officials announced they were studying a cap and trade system to help cut greenhouse gas emissions. Zhang Junko, head of development and strategy at the State Council’s development research center, said that the government may set emissions quotas for large industries and allow a certain portion of them to be traded. The study is still in early stages, and Zhang said that other options included a carbon tax. Richard Sandor, who helped establish the London-based climate exchange platform in 2003, said that a cap and trade market in China could be functioning as early as 2013.

For additional information see: Bloomberg

India Releases Second Climate Change Assessment

On November 17, the Indian Network for Climate Change Assessment (INCCA) released a report that predicts a net temperature increase of 1.7-2.2⁰C in the Northeast, Western Ghats, Himalayas and coastal region of India by 2030. According to the report, India’s four key sectors of agriculture, water, forest, and health will be significantly affected in these vulnerable regions due to an increase in temperature and precipitation. The report predicts that yearly extreme precipitation events in India may increase by 10 and cyclone storms may increase in intensity. The number of malaria infections is expected to rise in the Himalayan region but fall in coastal regions due to changes in moisture and temperature. “There is no country in the world that is as vulnerable, on so many dimensions, to climate change as India is,” said Indian Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh following the release of the report. “This makes it imperative for us to have sound evidence-based assessments on the impact of climate change.”

For additional information see:
Hindustan Times, Times of India, Telegraph, Press Release

India, UK Plan to Help Businesses Develop a Low Carbon Economy

On November 15, the UK-India Business Leaders Climate Group (BLCG) released a report identifying business opportunities that would encourage low carbon investment and trade for both countries. The BLCG is made up of British and Indian firms such as Marks and Spencer, HSBC, Rolls Royce, and Suzlon Energy and is valued at $322.2 billion. BLCG was launched in February 2010 and has suggested projects such as an online directory to promote early technologies that need capital investment. “Some of the most powerful solutions to the climate change challenge will come from business,” said UK Prime Minister David Cameron, as he endorsed the project. “The innovation and creativity of business won’t just help us save the planet, but is expected to create millions of jobs and billions of revenue in the green goods and services market.” Indian Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh said that India would “give this significant report the most serious consideration.”

For additional information see: Guardian, Reuters, BBC, The Economic Times, Report

China, UK to Partner on Low Carbon Research and Technology

On November 16, UK Environment and Climate Change Minister Greg Barker announced government support for joint research initiatives with China. This came just a day after the UK government also pledged support for closer ties with India concerning low carbon technology investment. During the second week of November, UK Prime Minister David Cameron and Energy and Climate Secretary Chris Huhne visited Beijing and signed an agreement to increase low carbon development and foster the sharing of ideas between the two countries. The UK government has outlined several projects between the countries that will receive funding. Barker emphasized that the joint projects would benefit other developing nations and would create new opportunities for UK industries.

For additional information see:Business Green

On November 17, Oxfam America released a report showing two million Americans are currently employed by businesses that help people cope with climate change, and that there is significant potential for growth in the sector. Some prominent business experts agree that climate change will create growth opportunities, but also create many logistical problems such as depletion of raw material supplies. According to Taylor Davis, senior counsel for John Deere Worldwide, his company expects strong growth in sales of agricultural equipment that boosts efficiency and helps farmers cope with land and water restrictions caused by climate change. The report says that businesses have the opportunity to develop new technologies and strategies, such as efficient irrigation systems and extreme weather detection systems, that can save lives and create jobs.

For additional information see:Miami Herald, Oxfam Report

Program Launched to Research Climate Change and Agriculture

On November 17, the International Food Policy Research Institute announced that development agencies worldwide will begin a $200 million research program to help the agriculture sector lower greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and adapt to climate change. The 10 year program will use climate models to examine how variable temperature and rainfall will impact 50 major crops worldwide. Bruce Campbell, head of the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR) which will help direct the new research program, explained that inequity in food production due to climate change is a primary concern. Specifically, rising temperatures and unpredictable rainfall will create a widening gap between countries with strong and weak agricultural sectors, causing more frequent food shortages in developing countries. Scientists believe that agriculture produces up to 33 percent of the world’s carbon emissions. One way that the program aims to increase agricultural production and cut GHG emissions is to encourage the grazing of animals on specialized grass species rather than wild pasture. This change could both lower methane emissions from livestock and triple milk and meat production, according to researchers.

For additional information see:Reuters

Staple Crop Prices to Rise Partly Due to Climate Change

On November 17, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) released a report warning that food prices are expected to climb, partly due to extreme weather events that occur because of climate change. The biannual Food Outlook report states that a global food crisis could occur in 2011 due to climate change, speculation, competing land use, and soaring demand from markets in East Asia. The report reads: “adverse weather effects are undoubtedly a primary driver of wheat production shortfalls and, with climate change, may increasingly be so.” Food prices on staple crops will rise by up to half by next year, which is especially troubling for the poorest people on the planet.

For additional information see:London Independent, UN Dispatch, FAO Report

Deutsche Bank: U.S. Can Cut Carbon Emissions with Increased Natural Gas Use

On November 17, Deutsche Bank released a report showing that increased use of natural gas over coal for power production would help the United States cut emission levels. The report, focusing on natural gas, states that with increased use of natural gas, renewable energy, and nuclear power, U.S. carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions could be lowered by as much as 44 percent by 2030. Domestic natural gas production has increased in recent years with the advent of hydraulic fracturing, or “fracking,” technology that allows gas to be extracted from shale formations. With increased gas supply and rising coal costs, the report estimates that the percentage of natural gas in power generation could reach 35 percent by 2030. The plan outlined by Deutsche Bank would allow the Obama administration to reach its targeted 17 percent economy-wide reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2020 and 80 percent reduction by 2050. The researchers argue that while currently coal is cheaper than natural gas, it will not remain that way, and it will make economic sense to shift more to natural gas in power production. Natural gas emits about half the CO2 as coal, however some environmentalists worry about the consequences of fracking — which entails pumping water, sand, and chemicals deep into the ground to break up shale formations — on groundwater reservoirs. However, the report assumes these issues are resolved or lessened as technologies advance. Mark Fulton, Deutsche Bank’s global head of climate change investment research, said, “the role natural gas can play is so significant, it can form a type of a potentially bipartisan area of agreement” on cutting emissions.

For additional information see:Reuters, Bloomberg, New York Times, The Economic Times, Report

Underground CO2 Storage Could Contaminate Water Reservoirs

On October 26, a study published in Environmental Science and Technology shows that while carbon capture and storage (CCS) uses deep saline aquifers for carbon dioxide (CO2) sequestration, a small amount of CO2 leakage could contaminate fresh groundwater reservoirs. Duke University scientists collected samples over one year from four freshwater aquifers around the nation that overlie potential CCS sites, and found that the potential for contamination was real. Capturing CO2 emissions from power plants and storing them underground is one proposed strategy for reducing the amount of greenhouse gas emissions that enter the atmosphere. Co-author Robert Jackson, who directs Duke’s Center on Global Change, said that after a year’s exposure to CO2, analysis of the samples showed that “there are a number of potential sites where CO2 leaks drive contaminants up tenfold or more, in some cases to levels above the maximum contaminant loads set by the EPA for potable water.”

For additional information see: Science Daily, Sustainable Business, Study

Heat Stress Caused Record Losses to Caribbean Coral

On November 15, a study published in PLoS ONE shows that coral reef ecosystems in 2005 in the tropical Atlantic and Caribbean suffered record losses as a consequence of high oceanic temperatures. Collaborators from more than 22 countries reported that more than 80 percent of the surveyed corals bleached, and more than 40 percent died in 2005. This event is now the most severe bleaching event ever recorded in the basin. Coral bleaching occurs when stressed corals expel their symbiotic algae, and can result in death. “Heat stress during the 2005 event exceeded any observed in the Caribbean in the prior 20 years, and regionally-averaged temperatures were the warmest in at least 150 years,” said C. Mark Eakin, coordinator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Coral Reef Watch Program. “This severe, widespread bleaching and mortality will undoubtedly have long-term consequences for reef ecosystems, and events like this are likely to become more common as the climate warms.” The decline and loss of coral reefs has severe social, cultural, and economic consequences throughout the world. The economic services alone of coral reefs are estimated to be around $375 billion a year.

For additional information see: NOAA, Study Abstract

USAID Releases Plan to Address Himalayan Glacier Melt

In the third week of November, USAID released a report presenting scientific information and recommendations to address Himalayan glacier melt. The report shows that while glaciers are slowly retreating, the retreat presents risks for more than a billion people who rely on glacier-fed rivers for water. The study focused on “no regrets” activities that address critical needs no matter how the glaciers ultimately respond to climate change. The report recommends a concerted effort to study the region’s glaciers more in depth, to focus on mitigation efforts that reduce emissions of black carbon and other aerosols, and to focus aid efforts on multi-lateral initiatives that have co-benefits.

For additional information see: New York Times, USAID Report

Troposphere is Warming

On November 15, a study published in Wiley Interdisciplinary Reviews: Climate Change shows that the troposphere — the lower part of the atmosphere closest to the earth’s surface — is warming due to increased greenhouse gas emissions. The notion that the troposphere is warming has been controversial since a 1990 study using satellite observations showed conflicting results. However, this recent study reviewed 195 cited papers, climate model results and atmospheric data sets, and found that the troposphere is indeed warming.

For additional information see: Reuters, Science Daily, Study

• EPA Tells States to Consider Rising Ocean Acidity
• Australian Treasury to Update Analysis of Carbon Price
• Computer Game Allows Players to Simulate Climate Mitigation and Adaptation Strategies
• Climate Scientist Phil Jones Stands by Climate Science
• China Aggressively Curbing GHG Emissions According to UN Diplomat
• Colder Winters Possible Due to Climate Change: Study
• Europe Should Consider CO2 Offsets to Cut Energy Bill, Global Carbon Says

Peak Load Management Alliance and The George Washington University Law School in cooperation with Husch Blackwell LLP invite you develop a greater understanding of ideas and proposals on demand response. The conference will focus on legal challenges related to demand response. Basic questions exist about the regulated status of demand response provides, the nature of demand response markets and derivative financial markets, consumer protections that could constrain the development of business, and many others. The meeting is designed to provide information to attorneys practicing in the areas of public utility, regulatory, and digital communications technologies. The meeting will be held December 1-2 in Washington, DC at the George Washington University School of Law Moot Court. To register, please click here.

Writers: Amber Pembleton and Nick Mostovych

Please distribute Climate Change News to your colleagues. Permission for reproduction of this newsletter is granted provided that the Environmental and Energy Study Institute is properly acknowledged as the source. Past issues are available here. Free email subscriptions are available here. We welcome your suggestions, comments, and questions.

EESI’s work, including this free newsletter, is made possible by financial support from people like you. Please help us continue to make it available by making a secure, online donation today by clicking here or mailing a check to Environmental and Energy Study Institute; 1112 16th St NW, Suite 300, Washington, DC 20036. Please contact Susan Williams at (202) 662-1887 (202) 662-1887 or see www.eesi.org/donate to find out more. Thank you for your support!

On October 4, representatives from 177 nations gathered in Tianjin, China to make progress on a new global climate treaty that would replace the expiring greenhouse gas (GHG) emission targets previously set by the Kyoto Protocol. According to many participating officials, the UN negotiations are not making much progress and a division between industrialized and developing countries remains. Chinese representatives said that poorer countries must be allowed to grow their economies and inevitably their total emissions. Developing countries are also unhappy that industrialized countries have not promised more significant emission reductions themselves. Bolivia’s ambassador to the United Nations criticized the U.S. pledge to cut emissions only three percent below 1990 levels by 2020. Last week’s climate talks in Tianjin were viewed as important for laying the groundwork for reaching a binding agreement at the Cancun summit in December.

For additional information see:AP, Bloomberg

On October 5, the chairs of five House Foreign Affairs subcommittees sent a letter, prepared by Oxfam, to Secretary of State Hillary Clinton urging her to establish an independent “global climate fund” that helps developing countries mitigate and adapt to climate change. Environmental leaders have called for an independent fund out of concern that a fund controlled by development banks would be inappropriately influenced by large corporations and rich nations. The establishment of a climate developmental fund is one of the topics of last week’s climate talks in Tianjin, China and the Cancun summit in December. The letter was signed by Rep. Eni Faleomavaega (D-AS), chairman of the Subcommittee on Asia, the Pacific and the Global Environment; Rep. Brad Sherman (D-CA), chairman of the Subcommittee on Terrorism, Nonproliferation and Trade; Rep. Gary Ackerman (D-NY), chairman of the Subcommittee on the Middle East and South Asia; Rep. Donald Payne (D-NJ), chairman of the Subcommittee on Africa and Global Health; and Rep. Eliot Engel (D-NY), chairman of the Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere.

For additional information see: The Hill, Oxfam Press Release, Oxfam Report

In an interview last week with POLITICO, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) chief Lisa Jackson criticized fossil fuel lobbyists and said that the agency will work under the Clean Air Act to regulate carbon emissions. Jackson voiced her frustration with lobbyists and industry groups saying, “I do very much believe that it’s time for us to get past this tired dance, where folks inside this Beltway get paid a lot of money to say things that aren’t true about public health initiatives that this agency is charged by law with undertaking.” Despite facing multiple lawsuits and opposition from Congress, Jackson said EPA is taking a “series of modest steps” to regulate greenhouse gas emissions. Jackson said that outside political debates in the Capitol, people all around the country are strongly in favor or having cleaner air.

For additional information see:Politico, Dow Jones Newswire

On October 5, Sen. Max Baucus (D-MT), chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, said he is in favor of legislation that would block the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) ability to regulate greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. When asked about whether the EPA should regulate GHG emissions, Baucus said, “That would put too much power into few hands.” Baucus believes that legislative means to address GHG emissions are more legitimate explaining that unlike EPA, Congress represents varying parts of the country and diverse views on economic and environmental issues. It is uncertain whether the Senator would actually vote for Sen. Jay Rockefeller’s (D-WV) bill to delay EPA regulation of GHG emissions.

For additional information see: The Hill, E&E News

On October 7, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released its five year fiscal plan. The plan highlights the agency’s five main goals, the first of which is to take action on climate change and improve air quality. The agency states that it will actively regulate greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions despite mounting opposition from members of Congress and more than 90 lawsuits filed against the agency. “While EPA stands ready to help Congress craft strong, science-based climate legislation that addresses the spectrum of issues, we will assess and develop regulatory tools as warranted under law using the authority of the Clean Air Act,” the strategic plan states.

For additional information see: EPA Press Release, EPA Strategic Plan

On October 8, top U.S. climate negotiator Todd Stern said that China is not following the commitments made in the 2009 Copenhagen Accord. Stern said that Chinese negotiators “have acted almost as though the Accord never happened, insisting on legally binding commitments for developed countries and purely voluntary actions for even the emerging markets.” Stern’s comments were made following last week’s stalled climate talks in Tianjin, China. According to U.S. and Chinese officials, negotiators on both sides are losing trust in each other.

For additional information see:Reuters, Bloomberg

During the United Nations Climate Change Conference held this week in Tianjin, leading officials from China’s National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) said that it will be difficult to set emissions limits in the country because expanding industries will resist any restrictions on economic growth. Before the 2009 UN summit in Copenhagen, the Chinese government pledged to reduce carbon dioxide emissions relative to the size of its gross domestic product by 40 to 45 percent by 2020 (compared to 2005 levels) and now plans to begin a pilot program to test carbon cap and trade plans. The pilot program would first test the effects of carbon cap and trade on a single sector or city before attempting nationwide initiatives. However, top NDRC climate official Sun Cuihua anticipates significant opposition, saying negotiations with local industries will be “difficult.”

For additional information see:Bloomberg

On October 4, Maplecroft released three climate innovation indexes (CIIs) that ranked the top 350 U.S. companies on their climate innovation and carbon management programs. These indexes show there is a positive correlation between climate-related innovation and higher financial performance. Companies were assessed on 100 performance-based criteria such as lowering carbon emissions and ability to capitalize on climate-related market opportunities. The top five performers were General Electric, Ford Motor Co., Alcoa Inc., Air Products & Chemicals Inc. and Johnson Controls Inc. Warren Buffet’s Berkshire Hathaway Inc. came in last.

For additional information see:

Maplecroft News Release, Bloomberg

On October 5, Small Business Majority and Main Street Alliance released a report that shows the Environment Protection Agency’s (EPA) Clean Air Act benefited the U.S. economy. In the past 20 years, pollutants have declined 41 percent, while U.S. gross domestic product has risen by 64 percent. The Clean Air Act has been a catalyst for the development of new technologies making the United States a world leader in exporting environmental control technologies, the report says. The report also warned that limiting EPA’s ability to regulate greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions could hurt many large and small businesses that have already taken steps to adjust to a low-carbon economy. At the same time as the report release, 500 small business owners affiliated with Mainstreet Alliance sent a joint letter to Congress urging legislators to allow EPA to do its job. The small business leaders said that regulation of GHG emissions will not only “protect local communities and economies from the perils of climate change, but also encourage investments in clean energy and create green jobs.”

For additional information see:Press Release, Report, E&E News

On October 4, Goldman Sachs published a report that analyzed recent developments in multinational negotiations on energy and climate issues. According to the report, a new negotiation strategy is emerging whereby a smaller group of nations like the United States, the EU nations, China, India, Brazil and Russia will work more closely as opposed to the current wide-ranging UN process. The report also said that lead negotiators are now looking beyond Cancun to the 2011 climate talks in South Africa as the next best chance for binding agreements on carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. However, individual nations are actively setting individual reduction goals. Many cities in Italy and Spain plan to reduce their CO2 emissions 25 percent below 1990 levels. Similarly, China announced a 40-45 percent reduction in carbon intensity by 2020 from 2005 levels.

For additional information see: Goldman Sachs Report

On September 29, a report published in Environmental Research Letters discussed the likelihood of a 4.2°C global temperature increase and the disappearance of coral reefs by 2100. The report says that considering the lack of global action to date, the Copenhagen Accord target of keeping global temperatures from rising more than 2°C cannot be met. Even a 50 percent reduction commitment in global greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 would make this goal unlikely. According to researchers, if nations pursue less ambitious mitigation goals, there is an 80 percent chance that global temperatures will increase between 2.5 and 4.2°C. The report also indicates that rising carbon dioxide concentrations in oceans will cause coral reefs to terminally decline.

For additional information see:Abstract, Institute of Physics, Study

On October 4, the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences published a study showing that fresh water levels in oceans are rising because of global warming. Warmer weather leading to frequent extreme storms has caused higher rainfall in the tropics and the Arctic Circle, the study says. The 13-year study concludes that melting ice sheets and higher river flow resulted in a 1.5 percent annual increase of fresh water flowing into oceans. Researchers used satellite measurements and observations rather than computer models to determine fresh water discharge into oceans. Lead analyst Jay Famiglietti said that higher rainfall is generally beneficial, but it is happening in the wrong places and for the wrong reasons.

For additional information see:Science Daily, Abstract

On October 4, the Foundation for International Environmental Law and Development (FIELD) published a report that says vulnerable countries may be able to sue industrialized countries like the United States to force them to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. According to the report, small island nations can make a credible case that, as they combat rising sea levels, they are being harmed by large polluters and can demand that GHG emissions be reduced. The report cites current legal literature that supports the idea that inter-state climate change litigation is possible. Furthermore, such action may create the political pressure and third party involvement necessary to push global climate negotiations forward, the report concludes.

For additional information see:New York Times, Report Summary, Report

On September 24, the University of Gothenburg issued a news release saying that horseshoe crabs are in serious danger of extinction due to climate change. A recent study conducted by researchers from the university’s zoology department concluded that horseshoe crabs are especially sensitive to changes in sea level and water temperature. “Such environmental changes are likely to have a negative impact on the crabs’ distribution and reproduction,” says researcher Matthias Obst. According to the study, populations have declined in all regions except in the geographically isolated southern-most part of Mexico. Horseshoe crabs have survived for more than 400 million years. At this moment, only four species remain: one in North America and three in South East Asia.

For additional information see:Study Abstract, University of Gothenburg News Release

• NSF Awards Grant for Climate Change Play
• APNewsBreak: EPA Official Praises NM Emission Plan
• Global Warming May Be Harming Pacific Walruses, Scientists Say
• Al Gore on Mexico Summit

The Environmental and Energy Study Institute (EESI) and the Nordic Council invite you to a briefing examining how and why Nordic countries have achieved global leadership in low-carbon technologies and strengthened their economic competitiveness. The oil crises of the 1970s spurred the Nordic countries to invest heavily in energy efficiency – including combined heat and power/district heating and energy efficient buildings – and renewable energy such as wind power, hydropower, geothermal, waste-to-energy, and biofuels. In the decades since, these countries have broken the direct relationship between economic growth and energy consumption, and emerged as global leaders in clean energy exports. Speakers representing industry and government from Denmark, Iceland, Sweden, Finland, and Norway will discuss their nations’ experiences developing low-carbon economies, and potential lessons for American policymakers. This briefing will be held on Thursday, October 21, 2010 from 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. in the HVC 215 Capitol Visitor Center. This briefing is free and open to the public and a light breakfast will be served. RSVP to Laura Parsons at lparsons [at] eesi.org or (202) 662-1884

Please distribute Climate Change News to your colleagues. Permission for reproduction of this newsletter is granted provided that the Environmental and Energy Study Institute is properly acknowledged as the source. Past issues are available here. Free email subscriptions are available here. We welcome your suggestions, comments, and questions.

EESI’s work, including this free newsletter, is made possible by financial support from people like you. Please help us continue to make it available by making a secure, online donation today by clicking here or mailing a check to Environmental and Energy Study Institute; 1112 16th St NW, Suite 300, Washington, DC 20036. Please contact Susan Williams at (202) 662-1887 (202) 662-1887 or see www.eesi.org/donate to find out more. Thank you for your support!

On September 17, President Barack Obama told Rolling Stone magazine that an energy and climate bill is one of his top priorities for 2011. “Our objective remains achieving the pollution reduction goals called for by recent legislative proposals,” Obama said in the interview. “Whether that happens bit by bit, sector by sector or in a more comprehensive way, we will engage in and support all meaningful efforts to get there.” Like other elected officials recently, Obama referred to a piece by piece strategy rather than a large comprehensive bill as a more probable scenario for bringing about significant legislation to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Key Senate Democrats and Republicans agreed with the President on this strategy. Sen. Susan Collins (R-ME) said she would be in favor of a bill similar to the one she introduced with Sen. Maria Cantwell (D-WA) that auctions off all allowances for GHG emissions and returns revenues back to taxpayers.

For additional information see: Rolling Stone, The Hill, New York Times, Politico

On September 28, Sen. Jay Rockefeller (D-WV) admitted that his proposed bill to delay the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) ability to regulate greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions for two years cannot overcome President Barack Obama’s promised veto. In a statement to reporters, Rockefeller said, “The president will probably veto it and so it wouldn’t have any force.” However, the senator said it was still important to send the “message” that he can get 60 votes for the bill. Rockefeller maintained that he wants a vote on his bill before the end of the lame duck session and believes that it will happen, given that Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) privately assured him a vote.

For additional information see: The Hill, Politico

On September 28, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) learned that its Climate Change Work Group – an advisory panel formed to determine the best available technology to reduce greenhouse gas emissions – is still gridlocked over what is the best available technology, amidst many choices, to recommend to the agency. The work group, formed in October 2009, consists of representatives from utility companies, national environmental groups and state regulatory agencies. The EPA will now make the technical assessments internally and move forward with its plan to regulate GHG emissions under the Clean Air Act. However, this development represents yet another obstacle for the agency. EPA’s plans are being challenged at this moment in federal court. Similarly, Sen. Jay Rockefeller (D-WV) is pushing a bill that would place a two year suspension on the agency’s ability to regulate GHG emissions.

For additional information see: Bloomberg

On September 28, representatives of the National Climate Adaption Summit unveiled a report to the President’s Science and Technology Advisor, Dr. John Holdren, on national and regional preparations for adaptation to climate change. The report stressed the importance of integrating federal climate programs, coordination among regional governments, and more funding for research on climate impacts. Further, the report discussed creating a federal climate information portal that would compile data from all relevant agencies in one accessible location, which would evolve over time into a more “national” portal with information about relevant non-federal climate efforts. The Summit report identified seven priorities for near-term action. It states that the United States must adapt to an already changing climate and prepare for increasing impacts on urban infrastructure, food, water, human health, and ecosystem in the coming decades.

For additional information see: Nature Press Release

On September 28, 120 of America’s top public health organizations and experts sent a joint letter to Congress and the White House to urge lawmakers to address climate change. The joint letter stated, “As public health professionals, we are writing to urge you to recognize the threat to public health posed by climate change and to support measures that will reduce these risks and strengthen the ability of our local, state and federal public health agencies to prepare for and respond to the impacts of climate change.” The letter specifically lobbied to preserve the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) ability to regulate greenhouse gas emissions and was endorsed by prominent health organizations, including the American College of Preventive Medicine, the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Lung Association and the American Medical Association, as well as many others.

For additional information see: Letter, APHA Press Release, The Hill

On September 29, leading national Latino organizations sent a letter to Congress to lobby against legislation that would block the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) ability to regulate greenhouse (GHG) gas emissions under the Clean Air Act. Rising temperatures due to GHG emissions have been shown to increase ground level ozone formations, a primary contributor to asthma and other respiratory diseases that are increasingly prevalent in Latino communities. The joint letter stated, “Acknowledging that global warming pollution is dangerous to our health and environment requires the EPA to follow up with standards under the Clean Air Act to control carbon pollution from cars, power plants, and other industrial sources.” Throughout Latino communities in Chicago, 2,800 asthma attacks and 41 premature deaths occur every year.

For additional information see:Letter, Press Release, NRDC

On September 27, United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) director Achim Steiner said in an interview that while much emphasis is placed on reducing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, significant progress can be made in upcoming climate talks by reaching global agreements to abate black soot, methane and other non-CO2 gases that contribute to climate change. Steiner explained that reducing these substances can be done without the contentious legally binding agreements necessary for lowering global CO2 emissions. Black soot, methane and other non-CO2 gases account for about half of atmospheric substances that cause global warming. In addition, black soot darkens ice causing it to absorb more heat, accelerating global warming, particularly in the polar regions. Black soot is often produced from burning biomass, cooking with solid fuels and diesel exhaust.

For additional information see: Bloomberg

On September 30, UK Prime Minister David Cameron announced the departments of the coalition government will compete with each other to lower their energy use during the month of October. This competition is part of the government’s plan to cut its own greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 10 percent during the first year of the Cameron administration. Cameron’s announcement signals that the coalition has taken a leadership role in addressing climate change and is actively rebuilding its green credentials. The competition will also highlight some new efforts for improving energy efficiency such as the installation of innovative ceiling tiles in governmental buildings that store heat during the day and release it in the evening.

For additional information see:Reuters, BusinessGreen

On September 27, the South Korean Ministry of Knowledge Economy said that 374 of the nation’s largest polluters – producing at least 25,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide a year – will be required to set greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction targets by September 2011. The 374 companies identified by the Korean government produce about 58 percent of the country’s GHG emissions and will have to pay as much as $8,708 in fines if they fail to meet the targets. This is part of South Korea’s broader strategy to lower GHG emissions and mitigate the effects of global warming. The government also will begin a carbon-offset system under which larger companies that share their successful methods of carbon reduction with smaller companies will earn emission credits.

For additional information see: Bloomberg

On September 29, a commission appointed by the Danish government released plans for moving Denmark off fossil fuels by 2050. “My government will study the recommendations very closely and will present a road map setting a date for freeing ourselves from fossil fuels,” Danish Prime Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen said. “It will be one of the first road maps in the world on how to become fully independent of fossil fuels. A plan for a transition like this will touch every part of society and every corner of politics. We are facing tough choices.”

The report outlines ideas on how to use replace fossil fuel consumption with wind energy and biomass fuel produced on native soil. Denmark also plans on discouraging the consumption of fossil fuels by phasing in a taxation of fossil fuels over the next 20 years. Going fossil fuel free would reduce the nation’s greenhouse gas emissions by 75 percent, and would reduce the need to turn to imported fuels to heat Denmark’s homes. Going fossil fuel free would reduce the nation’s greenhouse gas emissions by 75 percent, and would reduce the need to turn to imported fuels to heat Denmark’s homes. This turn to relying on “home-grown energy” will offset the taxes placed on coal and other fossil fuel imports. “There will be economic growth,” Katherine Richardson, the commission’s chairwoman said. “The difference between doing it with or without fossil fuels is about 0.5 percent of gross national product in 2050. That’s the cost of insurance to keep money in this country, creating jobs here instead of sending it to a few countries somewhere else in the world to get oil and gas.”

For additional information see:The Guardian, Danish Commission Report

On September 30, the Institutional Investors Group on Climate Change published Shifting Private Capital to Low Carbon Investment, which showed there is not enough incentive in the EU for investors to switch away from greenhouse gas (GHG) emitting technologies. According to the report, 90 percent of asset managers interviewed said they were deterred by a lack of long-term policies to support their investments. Specifically, they stressed that member states need to adopt grandfathering guarantees, which keep new rules from applying to old projects. Recent changes to existing subsidy programs for solar power in member states like Spain and France signal to investors that the incentive landscape is still too unpredictable.

For additional information see:Bloomberg, IIGCC Press Release

On September 20, a new study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences showed higher levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) in oceans cause decline in shellfish populations. As CO2 concentrations increase in the atmosphere due to the combustion of fossil fuels, ocean waters become more acidic and shellfish have more trouble growing shells. Lead researcher Christopher Gobler from Stony Brook University conducted experiments growing shellfish at various CO2 concentration levels. The study concluded that shellfish could not adequately grow in CO2 concentration levels of 750 ppm or higher. Under these conditions, they could not develop strong shells and had feeble connective tissue. At this moment, oceans have a CO2 concentration of 390 ppm.

For additional information see:Abstract, Discovery

• Fish & Wildlife Service Releases New Climate Change Strategy
• 20 Cities and Counties Honored for Achieving Milestones in Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions
• UN Sees Funds Threat to Climate Campaign

The Environmental and Energy Study Institute (EESI) invites you to a briefing on challenges facing the oil industry to keep pace with rising global demand, and the potential implications for oil prices, national security, and the world economy. Numerous sources project demand for liquid fuels to rise to historically unprecedented levels once the global economy recovers from the recent recession. Global oil production, meanwhile, has leveled off since 2005, real oil prices have roughly doubled, and spare capacity has tightened, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA). Potential constraints on global oil production have raised concerns among industry observers, military leaders, and policymakers. This briefing will examine the economic, technical, and political factors that influence the rate at which oil is extracted and processed, and how patterns of global oil production are changing. This briefing will be held on Thursday, October 7, 2010 from 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. in the SVC 203/202 Capitol Visitor Center. This briefing is free and open to the public. No RSVP required. For more information, contact Jan Mueller at (202) 662-1883

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