Articles tagged with Climate Policy
A new MIT study estimates that China's climate policy would improve air quality and human health, saving $339 billion in health costs by 2030. The researchers used a new modeling approach to simulate the effects of different policy scenarios on provincial air quality and public health.
Policies such as ecological restoration and improved crop residue management have contributed to increased carbon sequestration in China. China's distribution and magnitude of carbon pools vary in response to climate change and human activities.
Researchers found that making faraway climate impacts feel closer to people does not necessarily translate into greater policy support. Participants who viewed a smaller map of the Maldives and the US judged the distance as shorter, but their policy support for climate change remained the same.
Oceanographers Paul Falkowski and James J. McCarthy have been awarded the prestigious Tyler Prize for Environmental Achievement for their decades-long efforts to understand and communicate the impacts of climate change. Their research, focusing on marine ecosystems and nutrient cycles, has significantly advanced our understanding of hu...
A new study finds that substantial carbon pricing can lead to substantial divestment from coal, resulting in reduced emissions. The 'green paradox' effect is overcome when investors anticipate strong future climate policies, suggesting a more effective strategy for reducing emissions.
A recent study reveals substantial differences in climate change views between Republican elites and their party members, with only a quarter of Republicans believing human-caused climate change. The research also finds that Republican support for climate policies varies by state, with Southern Florida showing strong backing for regula...
A new study by UC Santa Barbara researcher Matto Mildenberger finds substantial differences in Republican and Democratic climate change views across different states and congressional districts. The research reveals varied opinions among Republicans on issues like climate policies, renewable energy, and carbon regulations, despite part...
The article examines how science influenced policy debates on climate change, highlighting the role of institutions in connecting scientists to decision makers. Climate change is one of humanity's greatest threats, with the scientific community playing a central role in understanding its nature and assessing options for addressing it.
A new study finds that reducing greenhouse gas emissions to protect future generations from environmental destruction could save tens of billions of dollars annually, especially in wealthier countries. By valuing human population differently, policymakers can make more informed decisions about climate policy.
A Cornell University study reveals that labels matter in accepting climate science, with climate change being viewed as more real than global warming. Despite this, 65% of Republicans acknowledge global warming's existence.
A new study finds that Amazon River carbon dioxide emissions are nearly balanced by terrestrial uptake, with significant implications for global climate policy. The research reveals that the Amazon Basin emits almost 50% more CO2 than previously estimated.
Researchers argue that current measurements like global warming potential mask the effects of greenhouse gases over different timescales. A new approach recognizing both 20- and 100-year time scales could provide clarity to climate change policy analyses and avoid misleading debates.
Researchers developed a novel network-based climate stress-test methodology to assess climate risks in investments portfolios, considering policy scenarios. Combined exposures of financial investors' equity portfolios to climate-policy relevant sectors are large, amplifying risk through indirect exposures.
A new study proposes 'agrowth' as a middle ground between pro-growth and anti-growth policies, aiming to reduce resistance to climate policies. The research suggests that adaptation to climate change can be achieved through flexible economic strategies, rather than relying solely on growth.
A new study suggests that science curiosity can reduce polarization on contentious issues like climate change and fracking. Curious individuals are more willing to engage with surprising information that challenges their political predispositions, leading to a decrease in partisan divide.
A recent study warns that the Paris Agreement's long-term success depends on well-designed and functioning monitoring systems. Europe's experience with national climate policies offers valuable insights into the challenges of monitoring climate policies, including political concerns over costs and perceived usefulness of information.
New research reveals EU's transport sector faces significant challenges in achieving emission reduction targets. The study highlights a lack of ambition and internal disagreement over responsibility, as well as scarcity of data and bias towards industry interests.
Americans have divided views on climate change causes, cures, and scientist trust; liberal Democrats generally support science role in policy. Moderate views exist on individual actions to reduce climate change.
Researchers from NYU and Duke University found that 80% of Americans live in counties with more favorable weather conditions since the 1970s. However, future climate change projections suggest that nearly 90% of the US public will experience less pleasant weather by the end of the century due to rising temperatures.
Researchers found that a person's preconceived ideas, shaped by socialization and politics, influence their views on climate protection. Economic justifications and personal aspects like health do not sway skeptics, highlighting the need for comprehensive communication strategies.
A new study warns that stringent climate policies could limit the adoption of modern cooking fuels in developing countries, putting millions at risk. The study found that without targeted subsidies, increasing carbon prices would disproportionately harm energy access goals.
A new model predicts that climate change impacts will worsen income growth for the poor, leading to a more unequal distribution of wealth. The researchers recommend lenient or sharp increases in carbon prices to mitigate these effects and protect vulnerable populations.
The Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDCs) represent a 'bottom up' approach to climate management, with countries setting their own emissions reduction targets. Fawcett and colleagues found that INDCs can help reduce the probability of worst levels of temperature change until 2100 and limit global warming to 2?C.
The International Year of Global Understanding aims to foster smart policies by promoting better understanding of local impacts on the global. Activities include research projects, educational programmes, and information campaigns to translate scientific insight into sustainable lifestyles.
A study by MIT economist Christopher Knittel reveals an essential mechanism underlying the politics of climate change. The research shows that certain climate policies, like transportation fuel subsidies, contain asymmetries that benefit a smaller group at the expense of most people.
Targeted green industry policies offer concrete benefits to firms and households, spurring decarbonization trends. Effective sequence of policy implementation is key, with broad carbon taxes following initial targeted measures.
Researchers at the University of California, Berkeley suggest that promoting clean energy can help build key political coalitions. By providing benefits through green industrial policies, such as subsidies and tax rebates, policymakers can create stronger coalitions for decarbonizing energy systems.
Tradable Energy Quotas (TEQs) are a policy framework that addresses the bind between climate science and political reality. By implementing a quantity-based energy quota system, TEQs offers an equitable and expeditious way to bridge the gulf between climate ambition and public support.
Researchers found that echo chambers in U.S. climate policy networks contribute to the persistence of climate change denial despite scientific consensus. The study suggests that individuals who rely on limited sources of information from like-minded viewpoints may be misled about the dominant perspective.
A new study by University of Exeter researchers suggests that setting a high carbon tax can help delay the likelihood of irreparable climate change damages and trigger future tipping points. By applying an insurance premium to carbon emissions, policymakers can mitigate the prospect of abrupt changes in the climate system.
A group of economists and lawyers recommend updating the Social Cost of Carbon estimate every five years to incorporate the latest research, ensuring its reliability. The authors argue that a single estimate should be maintained and shared by all government agencies to provide consistent climate policies.
A new study by the American Meteorological Society identifies four categories of climate change risk management: mitigation, adaptation, geoengineering, and knowledge-base expansion. The research provides a comprehensive framework for policymakers to develop effective strategies for managing climate change risks.
Researchers found that carbon-reduction policies can lead to significant health savings, with benefits ranging from 26% to 10.5 times the cost of implementation. A transportation policy was the most expensive option, costing over $1 trillion in 2006 dollars, while a clean energy standard fell between the costs of other policies.
Researchers argue that IPCC's approval process limits its credibility by not considering diverse policy views. By analyzing global emissions data, they show how different interpretations can be made from the same dataset, highlighting the need for a more connected scientific-policy interface.
New research from Carnegie Institution scientists highlights the need for policy decisions based on sound science, rather than anecdotal information about local weather. The study finds that even as extreme weather events influence public opinion and support for climate change mitigation, waiting for people to experience these conditio...
A new study by IIASA researchers suggests that delaying climate policies could lead to up to 37% of global investment in coal power plants being stranded, with China and India bearing most of the costs. The study explores strategies to reduce stranded capacity, including avoiding new plant construction, shifting to other power sources,...
The EU's unilateral leadership in reducing greenhouse gases can limit the 2-degree target overshoot to 0.2-0.4°C, with lower costs for late-comers who delay action but face higher transitional challenges once they decarbonize. Carbon leakage is estimated to be small.
A new study finds that emissions pricing revenues could be at least twice as high as the estimated profit losses for fossil fuel owners. Climate policies would reduce demand and lower prices, generating strong incentives to reduce greenhouse-gas emissions.
A new study finds that delaying climate policy could lead to increased short-term mitigation costs, higher energy prices, and reduced emission reductions. If climate policies are delayed beyond 2030, global energy price levels may increase by 80% in the short term.
Researchers found that open-minded people became more supportive of government intervention after viewing videos presenting both sides of the issue. Closed-minded individuals did not change their views, regardless of the messages they received. The study suggests climate change denialists may be less effective in swaying public opinion.
Canadian governments must work together to share greenhouse gas emissions reduction costs, with provinces contributing equally. The current system is not effective and requires leadership from the Prime Minister and provincial premiers to address the challenge.
Scientists from six countries emphasize the importance of collaboration between science and policy in addressing air pollution effects. Successful integration has led to significant improvements in reducing acid rain and eutrophication, but challenges persist, including nitrogen emissions and climate change.
A recent study by Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research found that restricting nuclear power has minimal effect on the cost of climate policies. The researchers discovered that early retirement of nuclear power plants would lead to cumulative global GDP losses amounting to around 10-20 percent of climate policy costs.
The Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists' special issue reviews 2011's top threats, including Iran's nuclear program, Fukushima's aftermath, and a growing partisan divide in US climate policy. The Doomsday Clock Symposium evaluates the world's progress on biological threats and nuclear disarmament.
A recent survey found near unanimous agreement among climate scientists on human-caused global warming, but many Americans believe most scientists disagree. This misperception reduces certainty about global warming and climate policy support. Correcting this misunderstanding is crucial to addressing the issue.
The article finds that integrating climate policy with energy sustainability objectives can lead to significant synergies and cost savings. By adopting an integrated approach, major benefits can be achieved in terms of reduced carbon emissions and improved air quality.
Recent presidential and congressional elections reveal a correlation between climate change policy stances and electoral success. Voters favor candidates taking 'green' positions on climate change, while those expressing skepticism lose support.
Research highlights the importance of supporting Inuit community institutions in adapting to climate change, fostering resilience through community-led initiatives and preserving traditional knowledge. Community resource centers like Ilisaqsivik play a vital role in connecting local voices to resources and decision-making processes.
Leading climate economist William Nordhaus advocates for carbon taxes as a means to achieve significant emissions reductions, citing economic inefficiency and ineffectiveness of cap-and-trade systems. A carbon tax could also provide a revenue source to curb budget deficits while meeting environmental objectives.
Professor Maxwell Boykoff warns that mass media amplifies extreme claims and presents them as equal to scientific data, distracting from critical issues. He argues that a more nuanced approach is needed to address climate change skepticism.
A study published in The Lancet suggests that policies to reduce greenhouse-gas emissions can have additional positive effects on population health, beyond those related to climate change mitigation. These 'co-benefits' can provide a rationale for pursuing mitigation strategies and may also lead to cost savings for countries.
A new analysis by MIT researchers reveals that even moderate carbon-reduction policies can substantially lower the risk of future climate change. To avoid a 2 degree Celsius temperature increase, global emissions reductions are required now to provide a good chance of stabilizing the climate.
The British Climate Act is deemed flawed, with no one knowing how fast a major economy can decarbonize. Experts argue that policy should focus on developing clean technologies rather than setting unobtainable targets.
A new EU report emphasizes the importance of integrating climate change policies with economic and social issues to achieve effective climate action. The study assesses the degree of climate policy integration in six European countries, revealing significant potential for improvement.
A study published in Decision Analysis warns that long-term climate change policy is likely to change slowly, requiring stronger short-term goals. The researcher argues that considering path dependence in decision-making justifies greater near-term emissions reductions as a hedging strategy.
Purdue University researchers have proposed a way to incorporate deforestation into the international climate change treaty, titled Preservation Pathway. This approach would provide carbon credits for developing countries that set aside existing forests and slow deforestation rates.
Future US federal climate change policy is likely to include a national carbon dioxide cap, mandatory renewable energy portfolio standards, and increased vehicle fleet gasoline efficiency standards. These policies are already being implemented in the public and private sectors, with identifiable constituencies of well-networked actors.
A new report highlights the importance of ethics and justice in international climate negotiations, arguing that nations must acknowledge their duty to reduce emissions quickly and fairly. The report also calls for an end to using scientific uncertainty and national economic costs as justifications for not reducing emissions.
Experts from climate change, terrorism, sociology, politics, and geography come together to discuss how to effectively translate information into useful policy. The session aims to identify common issues with scientific content, weigh values, and communicate risk and science-based solutions to the public.
A new study by UI atmospheric scientists reveals a 54% chance that climate sensitivity exceeds the IPCC's upper bound, posing significant risks to humanity. The researchers propose an adaptive-decision strategy to mitigate uncertainty and facilitate robust climate-change policy.