Remember EESI in Your Year-End Giving Plans

The Environmental and Energy Study Institute (EESI) is an independent nonprofit organization that depends on your contributions to bring you timely, credible information on climate change. Please make a year-end gift to EESI today — we have received Charity Navigator’s four-star ranking for four consecutive years, so you know your donation will be managed effectively. Thank you for your support!

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 November 3, at a news conference held at the White House, President Obama acknowledged that the incoming House of Representatives likely would not pass cap and trade legislation, but he indicated that there were other options to address global warming. “I think there are a lot of Republicans that ran against the energy bill that passed in the House last year, so it’s doubtful that you could get the votes to pass that through the House this year or next year or the year after.” The President noted, “cap and trade was just one way of skinning the cat; it was not the only way. It was a means, not and end. And I’m going to be looking for other means to address this problem.” He defended the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) legal authority to regulate greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in 2011, saying that “the EPA is under a court order that says greenhouse gases are a pollutant that fall under their jurisdiction.” He also highlighted that solving the energy problems would not hurt the economy, but instead create new industries and jobs.

On November 4, Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) released a statement expressing disapproval of President Obama’s support of the EPA’s plan to begin regulating GHG emissions on January 1. In the statement, Murkowski said that EPA regulations will put an unnecessary burden on the U.S. economy and that there are other ways to “responsibly reduce our carbon emissions.” Murkowski has been one of the leading members opposing EPA regulation of GHG emissions.

For additional information see: AP, New York Times, Los Angeles Times, The Hill

On November 1, 20 states and 13 environmental groups filed a brief with the U.S. Court of Appeals in the D.C. Circuit Court supporting the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) plan to regulate greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in 2011. These states are up against 17 other states that are challenging EPA’s authority to regulate GHG emissions from power plants and factories that release large amounts of carbon dioxide into the air. While opposing states have claimed that EPA’s rules will lead to a significant slow-down in construction across the country, the recently filed brief claims that all opposing states except Texas are ready to begin issuing stationary source permits at the beginning of next year. This support came days after the Obama administration also asked a federal court not to stop EPA’s plans from taking effect on January 2, 2011.

For additional information see:  New York Times, Brief

On November 4, U.S. District Judge Emmet Sullivan issued a written order to the Interior Department requesting an explanation why polar bears were listed in 2008 as “threatened” instead of “endangered.” Sullivan issued the written order following an October 20 hearing on lawsuits that challenged the “threatened” listing. During the hearing, a coalition of environmental groups presented a case that the federal government should place polar bears on the endangered species list. The legal status of polar bears remains in question after the Obama administration supported the former President George W. Bush administration’s determination that the polar bear population qualified as only threatened. If polar bears are found to be endangered, there may be legal means to regulate greenhouse gas emissions under the Endangered Species Act. The Interior Department has until December 23 to respond to the order.

For additional information see: Washington Post, Reuters, Los Angeles Times, New York Times

On November 2, California voters defeated Proposition 23, which would have stopped California’s law to cap greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions until unemployment in the state fell below 5.5 percent for one year. Governor Arnold Schwarzenenegger said, “while we are doing all these things, there is no action in Washington. Isn’t that interesting? The one great thing about California is we never wait for Washington.” The California Global Warming Solutions Act will go into effect in 2012 and require GHG emissions to be cut to 1990 levels by 2020. The law will set up a market to allow for carbon dioxide emission permits trading, and require utilities to acquire almost one-third of their electricity from renewable sources. In related news, California voters supported Proposition 26, which requires a two-thirds super majority vote from the state Legislature for many new fees and taxes. This new requirement may make the implementation of fees for carbon polluters more difficult.

For additional information see: New York Times, San Francisco Chronicle, Bloomberg, Assembly Bill 32

On October 28, the California Air Resources Board (ARB) released its proposed cap and trade plan. The cap and trade plan will help execute new provisions set by the California Global Warming Solutions Act (AB 32), which requires the state to cut carbon emissions to 1990 levels by 2020. The program will require 360 businesses to acquire allowances for carbon emissions; most allowances will be given away for free when the program begins in 2012. About four percent of the available allowances will be placed in a reserve, and can be released if trading prices on allowances become too high. The remaining allowances will be auctioned off. Additionally, up to eight percent of allowance needs can be bought with offset credits, which include projects such as forestry and manure management. Emissions from combustion fuels will not be capped until 2015, when an additional number of allowances will be released. ARB members will vote to approve the plan during a public hearing on December 16 in Sacramento.

For additional information see:  Bloomberg, Reuters, Business Green, ARB Press Release, ARB Program Overview

On November 2, the New Mexico Environmental Improvement Board approved a cap and trade program that will restrict greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The program, which will begin in 2012, requires a two percent reduction in GHG emissions per year until 2020. If entities are unable to cut their emissions by two percent they will be able to purchase emissions credits from other entities, allowing more efficient entities to profit from the sale of credits. The program will allow New Mexico to participate in trading carbon allowances in the Western Climate Initiative, a collaboration of four Canadian provinces and seven U.S. states that seek to cut GHG emissions 15 percent from 2005 levels by 2020. Economic predictions show a modest net benefit to the New Mexico economy. Governor Bill Richardson said that the U.S. government should build on New Mexico’s program to implement a national cap and trade system.

For additional information see: Bloomberg, AP, Press Release

On November 5, the UN’s Advisory Group on Climate Change Financing released a report showing how nations can collectively raise $100 billion by 2020, the sum previously agreed upon by wealthy nations through the Copenhagen Accord signed in December 2009. The report states that up to $27 billion can be raised from financial transaction taxes on foreign exchange, $9 billion from shipping, $3 billion from aviation, $8 billion from cutting fossil fuel subsidies, and $38 billion from carbon credit auctions. The report also states that placing a price on carbon dioxide around $25 is a critical component to reaching the $100 billion goal. After outlining possible ways to raise money without taking money from taxpayers, “the next step is for political leaders to lay out a clear road-map for making this funding a reality,” according to Tracy Carty, Oxfam Climate Change Policy advisory.

For additional information see:  Oxfam, Business Green

On November 4, the UN released a report that warned continued failure to tackle climate change risks decades of progress in improving the lives of the world’s poorest people. In the annual report, the UN said that unsustainable patterns of production and consumption posed the most substantial challenge to fight poverty. “For human development to become truly sustainable, the close link between economic growth and greenhouse gas emissions needs to be severed,” the report said. In one estimate, the UN explained that adverse effects of climate change could double the price of wheat. By 2050, the report predicted consumption of cereals would fall by a fifth, leaving 25 million additional children malnourished, principally in Asia. Affluent countries “need to blaze the trail” on making economic growth less dependent on fossil fuels and helping poor nation get on the path toward sustainable development, the report stated.

For additional information see: The Guardian, Agence France Presse, Report

On November 4, the Brussels based environmental group, Transport and Environment, released a study showing that cars sold in the EU in 2009 emitted on average 5.1 percent less carbon dioxide (CO2) compared to cars sold in 2008. Toyota led manufacturers with a 10 percent cut in CO2 emissions. Transport and Environment stated that there were two main reasons for the reduction in emissions: technology was responsible for more than half of the cut in emissions, while the economic crisis along with cash incentives in many EU states increased demand for more fuel-efficient cars. An EU policy will fine auto manufacturers who fail to meet an overall 35 percent reduction of emissions by 2015 as compared to 1995 levels.

For additional information see:  Press Association, Bloomberg, AP, Study

The Chicago Climate Exchange (CCX), a voluntary, but legally binding reduction and trading system for greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions among power companies, manufacturers, and others, will dissolve at the end of this year. Participants in CCX included large U.S. companies like Ford, Bank of America, Cargill, IBM, and Intel. The carbon exchange market lasted seven years, but was dependent on the projection that the U.S. government would eventually install a mandatory GHG emissions cap and trade program. The program resulted in massive emission reductions, but commitments expire at the end of this year, and participants are not continuing their efforts due to the lack of mandatory regulations on the horizon. Jeff Sprecher, CEO of Intercontinental Exchange, which bought CCX in July, stated that “the bulk of the users have said to us that they really don’t want to continue to trade voluntarily in the absence of any credit for their work by the current administration.”

For additional information see:  National Geographic, Reuters

On November 4, DB Climate Change Advisers (DBCCA), a New York based eco-investment advisory group of Deutsche Bank, released a report showing that climate change lawsuits have been rapidly increasing, and will continue to do so in the absence of federal cap and trade legislation. DBCCA states that without federal legislation regulating greenhouse gas emissions, lawsuits play an important role in interpreting the law. The report outlines three trending areas of climate change litigation with likely outcomes that investors need to be aware of, including federal rulemaking litigation, state challenges, and public nuisance litigation. Two recent areas that will likely see lawsuits are the California climate change law, Assembly Bill 32 — which is on course to be implemented after voters defeated a ballot measure that would have suspended its regulations — and the New Mexico cap and trade plan that was approved earlier this week.

For additional information see: New York Times, Study

On November 5, a study published in Science shows that atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) was the primary driver of a 400,000 year global warming event known as the middle Eocene climatic optimum (MECO), an epoch between 55 million and 34 million years ago. The climate trend across the entire Eocene can be characterized as a period of transition from a warmer climate to a cooler climate. The MECO, however, changed this trend and represents the last major temperature increase before the end of the epoch. Researchers studied sediment taken from deep beneath the ocean floor that spanned the Eocene using paleothermometers to reconstruct changes in sea-surface temperature during the MECO. This study is different because it employed two independent paleothermometers that “can clearly differentiate between temperature changes and other factors.” The authors show that the sea surface warmed by 3-6° Celsius. The MECO is an interesting time span because there were no glaciers during the period, so the researchers could look exclusively at the relationship between CO2 and temperature without having to account for variations due to glacial ice. Co-author Alexander Houben stated that the results will help climatologists gain a better understanding of the climate sensitivity concept — the degree to which global temperature increase is dependent on an accompanying increase in CO2.

For additional information see: Scientific American, Abstract

On November 4, a study published in Nature shows that the meridional overturning circulation (MOC), a large scale circulation that influences weather and climate patterns by bringing warm surface currents from tropical latitudes to the North Atlantic, was probably reversed in the past. Until now, the past direction of the MOC has been disputed, but the authors of this study used high-resolution data showing the gradient of isotopes to conclude that the direction of the MOC was indeed different than it is today. This research presents the climate modeling community with the opportunity to further study how climate change may affect the oceans.

For additional information see: Science Daily, Abstract

A report published in the October issue of Polar Biology shows that changing ocean temperatures may alter the bio-geography of lithodids — giant, predatory crabs — in the Southern Ocean, allowing them to enter new habitats in the Antarctic continental shelf. The authors state that even a small increase in water temperature may allow for the lithodid’s larvae to develop within the continental shelf, erasing the thermal geographic barrier that once existed. This may pose a problem because the species in the continental shelf have not evolved to cope with these predators. Co-author Sally Hall stated that, “the sudden appearance of a new predator with few competitors could threaten isolated shelf communities such as those of the Bellingshausen Sea on the west side of the Antarctic Peninsula.”

For additional information see: USA Today, Abstract

• Dutch Drop Plan to Store Carbon Dioxide Under Town
• 2°C Climate Target May Need to Change, Says UK scientist
• Warming Temperatures Alter Arctic Lake Biochemistry
• Earth Will Take 100,000 Years to Recover from Global Warming
• The World’s Longest Running Carbon Dioxide Experiment

The Environmental and Energy Study Institute (EESI) and ICLEI—Local Governments for Sustainability USA invite you to learn about the role of energy efficiency, renewable energy, and sustainability in developing successful local economic development strategies. Practitioners and leading experts will discuss key concepts and practical examples of how energy and sustainability issues factor into fundamental economic development goals to save money for businesses and households, create new markets and business opportunities, and develop a talented workforce, as well as spur job creation and retain dollars in the local economy. Intended for local officials, economic development, energy, and sustainability professionals, and policymakers, this webinar series will examine the opportunities and obstacles facing local communities to achieve long-term prosperity in a changing economy.

Part I: Saving Money, Expanding Markets, and Building a Talented Workforce will be held on Tuesday, November 16, 2010 from 3:00 – 4:30 p.m. and can be registered for here. Part II: Leveraging Public Resources and Federal Funding will be held on Thursday, November 18, 2010 from 3:00 – 4:30 p.m. and can be registered for here. For more information, contact Jan Mueller at jmueller [at] eesi.org or (202) 662-1883.

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 25, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced new regulatory standards to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and improve fuel efficiency of medium- and heavy-duty vehicles. The new EPA and NHTSA standards are a response to President Obama’s May 21, 2010 memorandum regarding fuel efficiency standards, and will require medium- and heavy-duty vehicles sold between 2014 and 2018 to have emissions and efficiency improvements that will ultimately save 500 million barrels of oil and cut GHG emissions by 250 million metric tons over the lifetime of the vehicles. In a press release, EPA estimates that the program “would cost the affected industry approximately $7.7 billion, and generate total societal benefits of $49 billion, providing $41 billion in net benefits as a result of the standards over the lifetimes of model year 2014-2018 vehicles.” On October 27, the Canadian government announced that it also will create new emissions regulations for heavy-duty vehicles that will be aligned with those of the United States. Jim Prentice, Canadian Minister of the Environment said in a statement that “Canada and the United States have had great success in working together to reduce emissions from new light-duty vehicles, and we are looking forward to doing the same for heavy-duty vehicles.”

For additional information see: New York Times, Environment Canada Press Release, AP, EPA Fact Sheet

On October 25, the Climate Action Network Europe (CAN Europe) released a report which revealed that several large European companies are funding the campaigns of U.S. Senate candidates who oppose climate legislation. According to the report, Senators Jim Inhofe (R-OK) and Jim DeMint (R-SC) received $240,200 in campaign funding from Bayer, BASF, Solvay, Lafarge, BP, GDF-SUEZ, Arcelor-Mittal and EON in 2010. All of these companies are significant greenhouse gas (GHG) emitters themselves, together emitting 130 million tons of GHGs in 2009, according to CAN Europe. The report states, “European companies are funding almost exclusively Senate candidates who have been outspoken in their opposition to comprehensive climate policy in the U.S., and candidates who actively deny the scientific consensus that climate change is happening and is caused by people.”

For additional information see:Climate Action Network Press Release, Climate Action Network Europe Report, Guardian, Deutsche Welle

On October 23, the Joint Implementation Supervisory Committee (JISC) – the UN body in charge of expanding emissions reduction projects – agreed to a proposal to simplify carbon offset rules, following climate discussions in Bonn, Germany. The Joint Implementation process allows companies in Kyoto Protocol-participating countries to invest in projects that reduce carbon emissions, and in return receive carbon credits which can be used for internal carbon offsets or sold for profit. The present model allows countries to either monitor emissions reductions themselves or let the UN do an independent assessment. Allowing two monitoring methods is considered unsustainable because different projects have been subject to different regimes in different countries. The JISC now wants to create a universal system that is simpler and more transparent. “This is a landmark moment for the market-based approach to combating climate change,” JISC chair Benoît Leguet said on Friday. “We’re putting forward ambitious but extremely practical proposals that would draw on the best features of national and international approaches to incentivizing emission reduction projects.” The new model still needs to be approved at December’s UN climate talks in Cancun.

For additional information see: Business Green, Reuters

On October 28, representatives from energy company National Grid and Cambridge University told British Parliament members the UK should extend daylight savings time to reduce the country’s energy consumption and cut greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The panel discussion was held by Parliament’s Energy and Climate Change Committee. According to National Grid’s operations manager Alan Smart, peak evening energy usage could be reduced by 1,300 megawatts if clocks were not pushed back an hour in October. Cambridge researchers told the panel that putting clocks an hour forward year-round would reduce annual GHG emissions by 447,000 tons. Following the panel discussion, Tim Yeo, chairman of Parliament’s Energy and Climate Change Committee said, “At a time when public finances are tight, making better use of the available daylight is a cheap and cheerful way for the U.K. to do its bit in reducing emissions. I am calling on the government to launch a full scale trial.”

For additional information see: Bloomberg

On October 22, the Asia Development Bank, the Japan International Cooperation Agency, and the World Bank released a joint report showing that large Asian coastal cities will experience frequent flooding and extreme weather events if current climate change trends continue. The report studied potential risks due to climate change in the cities of Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City and Manila, and suggested measures and strategies to address these issues. In Bangkok, better control of ground water pumping and further investments in pump station capacity are needed to reduce urban vulnerability to flooding. In Ho Chi Minh City, 26 percent of the population is already affected by extreme weather events and a comprehensive climate change adaptation strategy was recommended. In Manila, city flooding may cause damages up to one-quarter of the city’s gross domestic product; a complete redesign of flood control infrastructure would be needed to protect against sea level rise and typhoons. The report concluded that climate-related risks need to be a central part of city planning.

For additional information see:

Reuters, International Business Times, ADB Press Release, ADB Report

On October 22, Pakistan’s Ministry of Environment, in collaboration with the United Nations, held an international conference on climate change. During the conference, Prime Minister Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani said that climate change is a major environmental issue and urged nations to form a universal and collective response, particularly in vulnerable South Asian regions. Gilani said Pakistan is developing a comprehensive climate change strategy and the country is looking forward to a substantive outcome at December’s UN Climate Change Conference in Cancun. Pakistan was one of the first nations to sign the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. Although Pakistan emits a small percentage of global greenhouse gas emissions, it faces severe climate change impacts such as melting of glaciers, sea level rise and flooding.

For additional information see: Business Recorder, Pakistan Observer, Daily Times

On October 27, the Rocky Mountain Climate Organization and the National Resource Defense Council (NRDC) released a joint report on climate projections for 10 national parks in California. The study considered a medium-high emissions scenario with heat-trapping pollutants rising at slightly lower levels than in recent years. Using six climate models, researchers predicted that Yosemite National Park will become 7.5°F warmer by the years 2070 to 2099 than it was from 1961 to 1990. Temperatures in the Sequoia, Kings Canyon, Mojave and Death Valley National Parks also are expected to rise. The report says that Joshua trees and giant sequoias may not be capable of adapting to predicted temperature changes. California’s economy will be impacted as national parks located in the state draw more than 34 million visitors a year. “The natural and cultural resources of California’s national parks are directly linked to over one billion dollars in economic activity and 19,000 jobs.” According to Theo Spencer, a senior advocate in NRDC’s Climate Center, “by acting now to reduce the pollution that causes global warming we will preserve these jobs and create new ones while continuing America’s long-standing position of technological leadership.”

For additional information see: Rocky Mountain Climate Organization and NRDC Report, Rocky Mountain Climate Organization Press Release, National Parks Traveler, San Francisco Chronicle

On October 24, Nature Geosciences published a study that explains where old carbon was stored during the last glacial period. According to lead researcher Dr. Ellen Martin, the study results will help scientists “understand how the carbon cycle works, which is important for understanding future global warming scenarios.” Martin measured isotopes of neodymium preserved in microscopic fossil fish teeth to trace whether old carbon samples had come from the North Pacific or the Southern Ocean. The results showed that most of the carbon was being stored in the Southern Hemisphere. When southern ice sheets melted, they released carbon dioxide (CO2) consistent with accepted measurements. The implication of the study is that during warming scenarios, oceans cannot store as much CO2 as they can under glacial conditions. “The oceans have 60 times more carbon dioxide in them than the atmosphere, so when we worry about what’s happening with carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, we often look to the oceans as a potential source or sink,” Martin said. During glacial periods, CO2 concentrations in the atmosphere average 200 parts per million, compared with 280 parts per million between glacial periods. Today’s concentration level is about 380 parts per million.

For additional information see: Science Daily, Abstract in Nature Geosciences

• Bill Gates and Sergey Brin Donate Funds to Fight Proposition 23

The Environmental and Energy Study Institute (EESI) and ICLEI–Local Governments for Sustainability USA invite you to learn about the role of energy efficiency, renewable energy, and sustainability in developing successful local economic development strategies. Practitioners and leading experts will discuss key concepts and practical examples of how energy and sustainability issues factor into fundamental economic development goals to save money for businesses and households, create new markets and business opportunities, and develop a talented workforce, as well as spur job creation and retain dollars in the local economy. Intended for local officials, economic development, energy, and sustainability professionals, and policymakers, this webinar series will examine the opportunities and obstacles facing local communities to achieve long-term prosperity in a changing economy. Part I: Saving Money, Expanding Markets, and Building a Talented Workforce will be held on Tuesday, November 16, 2010 from 3:00 – 4:30 p.m. and can be registered for here. Part II: Leveraging Public Resources and Federal Funding will be held on Thursday, November 18, 2010 from 3:00 – 4:30 p.m. and can be registered for here. For more information, contact Jan Mueller at jmueller [at] eesi.org or (202) 662-1883 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              (202) 662-1883      end_of_the_skype_highlighting.

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 21, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) published its annual Arctic Report Card confirming that the Arctic remains vulnerable to climate change. The report, based on the findings of 69 international researchers and 176 scientific references, states that Greenland had record high temperatures and glacier area loss in 2010; Arctic sea ice reached the third lowest recorded minimum since 1979 and Arctic snow cover duration was at a record minimum. NOAA administrator Jane Lubchenco said, “whatever is going to happen in the rest of the world happens first, and to the greatest extent, in the Arctic.”

For additional information see:  Washington Post, NOAA Arctic Report Card

On October 20, U.S. District Judge Emmet Sullivan ordered the Obama administration to clarify whether polar bears are endangered under U.S. law. Scientists believe that polar bears may soon become extinct because global warming has caused the rapid disappearance of Arctic sea ice upon which polar bears depend. Sullivan made the order after a coalition of environmental groups presented a case that the federal government should place polar bears on the endangered species list. The legal status of polar bears remains in question after the Obama administration supported the former President George W. Bush administration’s rule that polar bears are merely threatened. If polar bears are found to be endangered, there may be legal means to regulate greenhouse gas emissions under the Endangered Species Act.

For additional information see: Washington Post, Kansas City Star

On October 15, the USDA Forest Service released a report that says U.S. forests offset roughly 11 percent of industrial carbon emissions annually. According to the report, U.S. forests currently store 41.4 billion metric tons of carbon and an additional 192 million metric tons are absorbed each year. Researchers say that this annual carbon absorption offsets carbon emissions from about 135 million cars. “America’s forests play a critical role in combating climate change, collectively capturing and storing significant amounts of carbon that would otherwise pollute the atmosphere,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. The report also shows that the amount of carbon stored in forests has increased steadily since 1990 because total forestland area has increased and carbon storage density is growing.

For additional information see: USDA Press Release, USDA Data Results, Reuters, Sustainable Business News

On October 18, Rep. Fred Upton (R-MI) wrote an op-ed article in the Washington Times claiming that the House Select Committee on Energy Independence and Global Warming should be dissolved and that Republicans should aggressively challenge several Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rules if they regain the House majority in the upcoming election. “To date, this new select committee has needlessly spent nearly $8 million in taxpayer money, and that does not account for the countless dollars spent on so-called ‘fact finding’ missions,” Upton wrote in the op-ed. Upton also criticized several EPA goals to curb greenhouse gas emissions, calling the efforts a “regulatory train wreck” and “job killing” plans. On October 19, Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) defended the committee she created in 2007. “The Select Committee held dozens of hearings and briefings to educate members and the public on the efforts of the Congress. In addition, the Committee played an important role in holding BP accountable after the Gulf oil rig explosion and ensuring that the public had access to all pertinent information about the resulting spill and cleanup,” Pelosi spokesman Drew Hammill said in a statement.

For additional information see: The Hill, Ubton Op-ed in Washington Times, The Hill

On October 16, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lisa Jackson traveled to China to meet with her Chinese counterpart, Environmental Protection Minister Zhou Shengxian, to sign a bilateral environmental agreement which had expired in 2008. Under the agreement, the United States and China will collaborate on the prevention and management of air pollution, water pollution, and hazardous waste. The renewal of the agreement immediately followed the stalled UN climate negotiations in Tianjin, China.

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

On October 14, the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) announced that Rajendra Pachauri will remain its chairman despite the heavy criticisms made about a few serious errors in the 2007 IPCC report. Mr. Pachauri has been the chairman since 2002 and presided over the erroneous report. Following these allegations, the InterAcademy Council conducted an evaluation of the procedures and processes of the IPCC and concluded that “fundamental reform” was necessary, recommending that the panel’s chairman and top officials should only serve six years. During a news conference, Mr. Pachauri said the IPCC supported his continuing as chairman through the completion of the current climate assessment report in 2014.

For additional information see: Wall Street Journal

On October 19, Vivid Economics released a survey that ranked carbon pricing efforts by major economies to stimulate investment in cleaner energy. According to the survey, Britain had the strongest clean energy incentive by setting an implied carbon price at $29.30 per ton. Higher carbon prices stimulate investment in clean energy technologies by making dirty fuels like coal and oil more expensive and allowing new low carbon energy technologies opportunities to compete in the marketplace. After Britain, China came in second with an implied carbon price of $14.20 per ton, followed by the United States at $5.10, Japan at $3.10, Australia at $1.70 and South Korea at $0.70. In the past few years, Britain has taken measures to create a business-friendly environment for clean energy technologies. “Investment in clean energy in the United Kingdom reached around $11 billion in 2009,” Erwin Jackson, deputy chief executive of the Climate Institute said in a statement.

For additional information see: Reuters

On October 20, a study by the Royal Bank of Scotland Group (RBS) showed that UK companies are setting ambitious carbon dioxide (CO2) reduction targets. According to an RBS e-mailed statement, 73 percent of UK companies with at least 25 million pounds of revenue are actively reducing CO2 emissions, and the overall number of UK companies implementing CO2 reduction targets is up 50 percent since 2008. The catalyst for this movement has been higher demand for low carbon goods and services, according to the study. “With the global market for low carbon goods and services expected to grow considerably in the next few years, there will be an abundance of commercial opportunities for businesses to exploit,” said Tim Boag, managing director of structured finance at RBS.

For additional information see: Bloomberg

On October 5, the National Round Table on the Environment and the Economy and the Royal Canadian Geographical Society released a joint report outlining changes Canada will experience if global temperatures increase 2°C. The report found that Canada’s ski industry will suffer, shipping cargo across the Great Lakes could be more expensive because of lower water levels, Arctic sea ice is expected to decrease 50 percent, and the South Saskatchewan River may dry up, among many other changes. A few days after the report’s release, experts gathered in Toronto to discuss how Canadian cities are increasingly vulnerable to many different climate disasters. “Planning policy has to catch up with carbon-change policy,” said Eva Ligeti, executive director of Clean Air Partnership, at the meeting. “We need a coordinated, multi-disciplinary response plan, embedded in planning documents. We need to develop our adaptive capabilities and reduce emissions before we reach the point where we can no longer adapt.”

For additional information see: The Globe and Mail, Toronto Sun

On October 20, British risk advisory firm Maplecroft released a Climate Change Vulnerability Index, which measures the vulnerability of 170 countries to adverse climate impacts over the next 30 years. The index evaluates 42 social, economic and environmental factors to assess national vulnerabilities to climate-related natural disasters, sea level rise and human impacts such as agricultural dependency and resource conflicts. Bangladesh and India ranked the highest within the ‘extreme risk’ category that also included the Philippines, Vietnam and Pakistan. At this moment, developing countries are attracting large foreign investment and climate change impacts are becoming serious concerns for investors. “Understanding climate vulnerability will help companies make their investments more resilient to unexpected change,” according to Matthew Bunce, principal analyst at Maplecroft.

For additional information see: Reuters, Maplecroft Index

On October 20, Entergy Corporation released a study showing the U.S. Gulf Coast may face economic damages amounting to $350 billion by 2030 because of extreme weather events. The three types of hazards analyzed in the study were wind-related damage, gradual sea level rise, and sudden storm flooding. The report recommends a $50 billion investment for projects such as reinforcing beaches and improving building codes. According to the report, “with climate change, we should expect a Katrina/Rita-type year occurring every lifetime by 2030.” Entergy Chief Executive Officer J. Wayne Leonard said, “with the multiplier effect, the amount of economic loss to the Gulf Coast could rise to $700 billion, the gross domestic product for the entire region for one year.”

For additional information see: Bloomberg, Entergy Study

On October 19, Wiley Interdisciplinary Reviews published a study supported by the National Science Foundation that shows the United States and several other large nations may face increasingly dry conditions in the next 30 years because of warming temperatures. National Center for Atmospheric Research scientist Aiguo Dai used 22 computer climate models along with an index of drought conditions to provide evidence that the Western Hemisphere, along with regions in Eurasia, Africa and Australia, may experience unprecedented drought by 2100. Specifically, the results indicate that the western two-thirds of the United States will be very susceptible to extreme drought. Conversely, northern regions from Alaska to Scandinavia will experience wetter conditions, according to the study. “We are facing the possibility of widespread drought in the coming decades, but this has yet to be fully recognized by both the public and the climate change research community,” Dai said. “If the projections in this study come even close to being realized, the consequences for society worldwide will be enormous.”

For additional information see:  NCAR News Release, Climate Progress, Reuters, Study Abstract in Wiley Interdisciplinary Reviews

On October 17, Nature Geoscience published a study showing that wind speeds just above Earth’s surface are decreasing, with the sharpest decline occurring in Eurasia. Climate change, increased vegetation and urban development are the primary causes of the 5-15 percent slowdown of surface wind, according to the report. Researchers analyzed data, dating back from 1979, from 822 weather stations in Europe, central Asia, eastern Asia and North America. Lead researcher Robert Vautard said he expected to see increased speeds in some regions and decreased speeds in others but was surprised to “see a very clear trend across the whole Northern Hemisphere.” Regions with the strongest winds experienced the sharpest declines.

For additional information see: Nature, Study Abstract in Nature Geoscience

On September 10, The Scenarios Network for Alaska Planning published a report on potential climate change impacts on Alaskan ecosystems. According to the report, “approximately 60 percent of Alaska may experience a shift to a new climate-biome during the twenty-first century.” The study concluded the Arctic and Alaska Boreal forest regions will diminish by 69 percent and the Western Tundra region will diminish by 54 percent by 2100. Various species such as Caribou, Alaska marmots, trumpeter swans and reed canary grass will experience drastic habitat changes. Results were obtained by using summer and winter temperature and precipitation data from 2000 to 2009 in a climate envelope model. Researchers then gathered habitat information on the studied species from scientific field surveys. The report was intended to help land managers who are trying to conserve or control wildlife populations gain a better understanding of potential changes in Alaskan ecosystems.

For additional information see:  Fairbanks Daily, Study Abstract in SNAP

• U.S. Envoy: Climate Deal Still Possible in Mexico
• Climate Regulations Coming for Trucks, Buses
• Climate Change May Alter Natural Climate Cycles of Pacific
• UN Urged to Freeze Climate Geo-Engineering Projects
• Waxman Chides U.S. Chamber on Climate Bill: “A Stalemate Is Not a Solution”
• Mexico Stretches Funds to Cut Greenhouse Emissions
• UK’s `Stealth’ Carbon Tax May Add About 10% to Companies’ Energy Bills

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 14, the Climate Change Adaptation Task Force released an inter-agency report outlining how federal agencies can better prepare the United States to respond to the impacts of climate change. “The Federal Government has an important and unique role in climate adaptation, but it is only one part of a broader effort that must include multiple levels of government and private and non-governmental partners throughout the country. In particular, Federal leadership, guidance, information, and support are vital to planning for and implementing adaptive actions,” according to the report. The Task Force is co-chaired by the White House Council on Environmental Quality, the Office of Science and Technology Policy, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The report recommends that federal agencies make climate change adaptation a standard part of agency planning. Another recommendation is to align federal adaptation efforts across jurisdictions to better address issues like threatened water resources and public health. The Task Force will release a progress report in October 2011 to document how federal agencies adopted the adaptation strategies outlined in the October 2010 report.

For additional information see:  White House Press Release, Bloomberg, Interagency Report

On October 12, Duke University’s Nicholas Institute for Environmental Policy Solutions released a new report that analyzed the best way for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to regulate greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions under the Clean Air Act. The report examined the potential legal and economic challenges EPA could face during its efforts and suggested that the Clean Air Act’s New Source Performance Standards (NSPS) is the most practical way of regulating GHG emissions under existing law. Under the NSPS provisions, EPA could create an emissions trading scheme similar to ones proposed in Congress this year. According to the report, this would help the administration strike deals with industry groups and avert certain legal challenges. To avoid severe political kickback, lead author Dr. Tim Profeta said the EPA should “use its authority in a way that harvests some of the political compromise, which has occurred in the legislative debate.” Thus far, EPA has only used the New Source Review provisions of the Clean Air Act to regulate GHG emissions from large facilities like power plants and factories.

For additional information see: Duke University Paper, Duke University Press Release, Greenwire

On October 12, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced the recipients of $5.25 million in funding for city and state programs to study the effects of climate change on public health. The studies will analyze various scenarios ranging from heat-related illnesses to higher prevalence of waterborne disease caused by flooding. The grant recipients are Arizona, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, New York City and San Fransisco. One project is the study of how hotter summers impact the health of Michigan residents. According to CDC, “more frequent extreme heat events are of particular concern for the Michigan Department of Community Health. In the last 20 years the number of days Detroit residents swelter in temperatures exceeding 90 degrees has doubled.” The CDC grants are intended to help local city and state health departments plan climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies.

For additional information see:  New York Times, CDC Press Release

On October 13, UN Climate Chief Christiana Figueres said that to make progress at December’s climate talks in Cancun, nations must first clarify their pledges to cut greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Figueres’ comments had a sense of urgency following the stalled Tianjin climate talks in early October. Frustrated with the slow multilateral process, larger nations may turn to smaller scale agreements among wealthier countries. However, Figueres believes that such efforts by alternative groups or attempts for bilateral deals are insufficient measures to address climate change. “The multilateral process is…cumbersome and necessarily a slow process…but absolutely indispensable,” she said in an interview with Reuters.

For additional information see:  Reuters

On October 14, the Gates Foundation announced that it will direct more grants to help small farmers adapt to climate change. The foundation has already donated $1.5 billion to agriculture in developing countries; however, most of that investment supported conventional farming practices. In a speech during the World Food Prize meeting, Jeff Raikes, chief executive of the foundation, said new biotechnology approaches of seed breeding will help small farmers confront drought, flooding, disease and pests more effectively. Raikes pointed to a recent project in Malawi where farmers now use corn capable of withstanding extreme weather events. “We’ve known for years that farmers were going to have to contend with harsher weather, but now we’re getting a clearer idea of the scale and scope of the crisis,” Raikes said.

For additional information see:  Reuters

On October 13, shareholders of Occidental Petroleum, Valero Energy Corporation and Tesoro Corporation announced that they filed resolutions that would challenge the three energy companies’ recent financial contributions toward California Proposition 23. Valero, Tesoro and Occidental spent $4 million, $1.5 million and $300,000 respectively to support the ballot initiative that aims to suspend California’s regulation of greenhouse gas emissions. The shareholders said they are concerned with the effects of climate change, calling its impacts a “serious threat to our planet and economy.” Larisa Ruoff, Director of Shareholder Advocacy for Green Century Capital Management, which filed the shareholder proposal at Occidental, said investors are also “concerned that Prop 23 will remove important market signals necessary to transition to cleaner business practices.”

For additional information see:  Los Angeles Times, Ceres Press Release

On October 13, NATO countries met to discuss future environmental security issues in the Arctic Ocean. Melting sea ice due to global warming has raised the possibility of increased access to valuable natural resources in the Arctic region. Military officials fear that climate change may lead to conflict in the region as a race for resources unfolds. NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander, U.S. Admiral James G. Stavridis said, “The cascading interests and broad implications stemming from the effects of climate change should cause today’s global leaders to take stock, and unify their efforts to ensure the Arctic remains a zone of co-operation – rather than proceed down the icy slope towards a zone of competition, or worse a zone of conflict.” On September 30, the Royal United Service Institute published a study saying that diminishing ice in the North Pole is causing new global interests within the region to grow. As a result, major Arctic powers like the United States and Russia are increasingly asserting their presence in the region.

For additional information see: Guardian, Study Abstract in RUSI

On October 8, Japan’s government renewed its commitment to pass climate legislation, which includes an emissions trading system and an environmental tax to stimulate renewable energy deployment. Japan aims to have renewable energy constitute 10 percent of its total energy supply by 2020 and reduce its carbon emissions by 80 percent by 2050. Japan’s Prime Minister Naoto Kan said he will focus on passing the bill before December 3, so that the new provisions take effect in the next fiscal year. It is unclear whether the bill will pass because opposing parties may be able to block the legislation. The same bill stalled earlier this year after parliament failed to reach a consensus. Japan is the world’s fifth-largest emitter of greenhouse gases.

For additional information see: Reuters

On October 6, Nature published a study showing that contrary to current beliefs, the sun warms the Earth the most at the dimmest point of its 11-year solar cycle. Lead researcher Dr. Joanna Haigh analyzed daily sunlight measurements from 2004 to 2007 and found that the amount of light reaching the Earth’s surface increased while the solar activity declined. “If further studies find the same pattern over a longer period of time, [then] we may have overestimated the sun’s role in warming the planet,” Dr. Haigh said. Some scientists believe that during phases of lower solar activity, unusual patterns in air currents that cause very cold weather occur more frequently. The results may help explain why Europe has recently experienced very cold winters as global temperatures are rising. Scientists maintain that unlike man-made warming caused by greenhouse gas emissions, the variations in temperature due to solar activity are cyclic and should not have any lasting impact on global temperatures.

For additional information see:  Nature, Study Abstract in Nature, Guardian

On October 12, the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences published a study on the implications of demographic change for global emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2) during the next century. Lead researcher Brian C. O’Neill and his team used an energy-economic growth model that took into account many demographic variables such as an aging population and further urbanization. The study concluded that slowing population growth may be one of the most effective methods of reducing CO2 emissions. O’Neill showed that slowing population growth may result in up to 29 percent of the emissions reductions necessary by 2050 to avoid harmful climate change. The study also showed that an aging population in the next 90 years may reduce emissions 20 percent. In contrast, further urbanization may increase emissions 25 percent.

For additional information see: Reuters, Study Abstract in PNAS

Other Headlines

• Petroleum Industry Asks White House to Ease Greenhouse Gas Reporting Rules
• Thousands Participate in Global Climate Change Awareness Event
• Yale Study Finds Lack of Public Understanding of Climate Change

October 21: Shaping a Low-Carbon World: Lessons from Nordic Countries

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 including 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.

Writers: Nicholas 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!