Researchers will collect data on flood risk and septic health to identify areas most at risk of failure due to climate change. The team aims to provide data-driven solutions for equitable climate adaptation measures.
A new study finds that flood zone property prices are overvalued by $121–$237 billion, with low-income households losing up to 10% of their market value. The study warns of a real estate bubble threatening the US housing market's stability.
A new study finds that Florida neighborhoods affected by hurricanes experience gentrification, with average income of new buyers increasing while long-term demand stays stable. Weaker income households struggle to access affordable housing options after the storms.
A new study finds that the social cost of carbon is more than triple the current federal estimate, with each additional ton of carbon dioxide costing society $185. The study's updated methodology and key scientific advancements led to the higher estimate, which could inform stronger climate policies.
A new study published in Environmental Research Letters reveals that high-value properties in the western United States are disproportionately exposed to wildfire hazards. Researchers found that both low- and high-income communities bear a disproportionate burden of wildfires.
A new study finds that California wildfires increase both revenues and expenditures in municipalities, resulting in a budget shortfall over many years. The unique state constitution limits property assessments, but still leads to higher taxes and a boom in housing reassessments after fires.
The RFF Solar Geoengineering Research Project has awarded $10,000 grants to eight teams to investigate the social science implications of solar geoengineering. The projects will explore the risks, benefits, and uncertainties of this emerging technology.
A new study by Resources for the Future and Columbia University finds that losing a hectare of wetlands can cost society an average of $1,900 in flood damages per year. In developed areas, this figure rises to over $8,000. The research highlights the importance of preserving wetlands for flood mitigation.
Expanding the EU's Emissions Trading System to cover road transport and heating fuels could be a cost-effective way to reduce emissions, but may affect consumers. Thoughtful policy design is crucial to relieve burdens and ensure equitable distribution of costs.
A new study assesses the impacts of sea level rise and wetland change on storm surge flooding in the Chesapeake Bay region. The results show that even relatively weak storms in 2100 could have a greater impact than high-intensity storms today, with significant property damage and effects on people.
A new study published in Environmental Science & Technology estimates the median cost of plugging abandoned oil and gas wells at $76,000, with costs varying widely based on location, age, and other factors. The analysis of over 19,500 orphaned wells across the US provides valuable insights for regulators to adjust bonding requirements ...
A new study by Resources for the Future found that at least 27% of new invasive pests in the US were initially detected by members of the public. The researchers suggest leveraging the public's role to improve early detection and control of invasive species, which cause significant economic and environmental harm.
A first-of-its-kind study found that the US wood pellet industry has a net positive effect on southeastern US forests, with overall carbon storage increased and standing-dead trees decreasing. However, the researchers caution that future expansion and increasing demand may pose concerns if not monitored closely.
A new study by Resources for the Future researcher Margaret Walls concludes that national monuments on US public lands have generated benefits exceeding costs and have not harmed local economies. In some cases, monument designations have increased nearby businesses and jobs.
A new analysis reveals that satellite-based detection of harmful algal blooms can provide early warning systems for lake visitors, resulting in significant socioeconomic benefits. The study found that local officials' swift action to respond to toxic cyanobacteria in Utah Lake saved $370,000 in healthcare costs and prevented illness.
A new study finds deep flaws in EPA's benefit-cost analysis supporting a proposed rule to roll back Mercury and Air Toxics Standards. The analysis ignores scientific evidence and economic best practice, failing to account for recent science and changes in electricity generation.
An interdisciplinary team of researchers finds that it is possible to bring industrial greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by 2070 through the use of promising technologies such as electrification, hydrogen, and energy efficiency. Governments can accelerate research and development and incentivize new technology deployment through pol...
A new study published in Science Advances reveals that national monuments have positive effects on local economies in the American West. The study found that designations led to a 10% increase in nearby business establishments and an 8% rise in jobs, primarily in service industries like business services, financial services, and constr...
Resources for the Future launches Global Antibiotic Resistance Partnership to explore incentives for slowing antibiotic resistance development and spread. The three-year initiative will build on the Extending the Cure project, focusing on five emerging economies with rapidly rising antibiotic use.
A new RFF issues brief highlights the potential impacts of climate change on agriculture, with estimates suggesting a modest reduction in grain production in developing countries and improvements in industrialized nations. However, the author notes that regional changes are highly uncertain due to varying climate models.
New RFF issues brief examines interactions between climate change policies and the tax system. Research suggests that reducing carbon emissions may produce economic benefits when revenues from pollution control are used to reduce other taxes, potentially offsetting added costs. However, policy approaches can significantly impact costs.
A new RFF issues brief highlights the potential impacts of climate change on water supplies, including increased precipitation, evapotranspiration, and extreme weather events. The report emphasizes the need for more efficient water management and use to mitigate these effects.
The article argues that deregulation has resulted in lower energy prices for consumers, comparable to those in 1949 when adjusted for inflation. Free markets have also devised solutions to manage price risks through hedging instruments, allowing large consumers to lock in prices and mitigate volatility.
Resources for the Future (RFF) is studying the economic implications and commercial possibilities of satellite remote sensing. The research aims to find a reliable way to measure the value of NASA's technology transfer to the public and private sectors.
The RFF briefing papers provide topical, timely, and non-technical information and analysis on climate change policies. Key policy lessons and economic implications are outlined, including the role of economics in addressing climate change risks and costs.
A proposed dam in northern Thailand could submerge a golden teak forest, devastating wildlife and biodiversity. The project aims to account for the ecological, social, and cultural implications of such projects.
A workshop on long-term stewardship of the US nuclear weapons complex explored the need for institutions, information, and strategies to protect people and the environment. Key findings include the potential for decades-long cleanup efforts and the importance of reliable institutional controls and waste disposal facilities.
Researchers at Resources for the Future (RFF) and Stanford University are investigating the environmental implications of three alternative tax plans under discussion in Congress. The flat tax, national sales tax, and unlimited savings account (USA) tax plans could have varying effects on economic growth and environmental quality.
Researchers investigate how climate change affects vulnerable populations, including access to public water supply and education levels. The study aims to understand the potential regional-scale effects of climate change on social groups in specific regions.
Researchers examine obstacles to international technology diffusion, including funding limitations, investment distortions, and intellectual property issues. They also investigate strengthening economic incentives for mutually-beneficial technology adoption.
The RFF report reveals that water's value is highest in the drier, more water-scarce Rio Grande and lower Colorado regions for its withdrawal uses. Water's value varies by use, with industrial processing and domestic uses ranking highest.
Researchers at Resources for the Future found that biodiversity prospecting provides limited financial benefits for preserving habitats. The study suggests that funding sources other than commercial product research should be explored to support conservation efforts.
Researchers at Resources for the Future (RFF) argue that tighter ozone standards won't resolve urban smog problems due to local conditions and economic competition. The authors suggest targeting individuals' driving habits and activities as an alternative to mandated regulation.
Researchers at Resources for the Future (RFF) found that leading federal programs relying on incentives have little impact on the environment or regulatory system. The report identifies three major concerns: lack of statutory basis, poor management by EPA, and mistrust among parties involved.
The program aims to increase understanding of climate change policy issues, focusing on economic and environmental consequences, policy design, interactions with other policies, equity and efficiency, and development of analytical tools. RFF will conduct research projects and issue papers on selected topics.
A new report by Resources for the Future highlights the District of Columbia's environmental priorities, ranking drinking water and air pollution as top concerns. The study suggests creating a separate environmental agency to address these issues, which have serious consequences for attracting businesses and residents.