Articles tagged with Climate Policy
Recent 'unprecedented' floods are not exceptional if looking further into the past, new research suggests. Geological palaeo-flood records reveal many previous floods exceeded modern peaks, highlighting the need for using these records in flood planning.
A new study from the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research finds that failing to account for declining forest carbon storage capacity could make reaching Paris agreement targets impossible and costly. Immediate action is recommended to safeguard carbon stocks, prevent escalating costs, and promote sustainable land use practices.
A cross-sectional study found that hospitals with high LGBTQ+ inclusion reported improved job outcomes for nurses, leading to enhanced staff well-being and optimized care delivery. The findings suggest that implementing inclusive policies is crucial for creating a positive work climate in hospitals.
A new study published in Climate Policy highlights the significant cost disparity between household electricity and e-fuel for long-distance mobility. The research shows that the wealthiest 1% of EU citizens are responsible for 66% of air travel, while the majority emit less than 0.1 ton of CO2 equivalent emissions per year.
Shrinking Andean glaciers pose a significant threat to the water supplies of 90 million people, with thinning rates 35% faster than the global average. Effective management of water resources and drastic reduction in carbon emissions are crucial to mitigate this impact.
The American Geophysical Union has opened a new application portal for U.S. researchers to self-nominate as experts, authors, and review editors for the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change's Seventh Assessment Report. The nomination period is open until mid-April.
A study assessing 197 countries finds that while 151 nations have pledged carbon neutrality, only 72 have implemented comprehensive policy frameworks. The global renewable energy capacity is expected to reach only 2.7 times its 2022 level by 2030, falling short of the tripling target.
A study by Prof. Dr. Heinz Welsch found that countries with higher per-capita income and emissions levels pursue more ambitious climate targets, but their populations are less willing to contribute to climate change mitigation. The study also found a correlation between the discrepancy and lower satisfaction with democracy.
Farmers in Kansas and Missouri avoid discussing climate change, even if they hold convincing views or skepticism, due to concerns about potential conflicts and damage to their livelihoods. Many rely on social media cues to gauge others' opinions before initiating conversations, rather than traditional news media.
A new study explores how policymakers can ease the burden of climate threats on people in informal settlements, refugee camps, and war zones. The researchers argue that these 'trapped populations' require tailored policies to adapt in their location or facilitate migration.
A Princeton study finds that transitioning to clean energy reduces emissions and improves air quality, leading to significant public health benefits. The study estimates that combining federal and subnational clean energy actions can reduce 6,600 premature deaths nationally in 2030.
A new report reveals young Australians are feeling financial pressure, worsening mental health, and declining trust in institutions. Cost of living, education, and mental health were identified as key concerns, with young people taking the lead in social issues.
Wealthy individuals, despite being major contributors to global emissions, possess three positive climate capabilities: investing in green technologies, knowledge about climate change, and social influence. Researchers suggest harnessing their potential to accelerate the UK's transition to net-zero carbon emissions.
A new book by Komla Dzigbede explores the ability of local governments to learn, adapt, and innovate in the face of major crises. The book analyzes disaster preparedness, response, and economic development post-disaster, offering practical lessons for local leaders.
A study by Cambridge University Press found that collective dissociation prevents people from taking effective action against the climate emergency, exacerbating mental health issues such as depression and PTSD. Researchers recommend measures like community engagement, mental health support, and infrastructure improvement to combat dis...
The UK's top earners contribute disproportionately to carbon emissions, yet they can drive systemic change through their purchasing power and influence. Wealthy individuals are more likely to adopt green technologies, but their lifestyles remain high-emission due to frequent flying and luxury consumption.
A study developed an integrated assessment framework to help policymakers and urban planners translate digital participation data into actionable strategies. The framework balances transparency and representativeness in decision-making, highlighting the need for long-term tracking of participation outcomes.
Emissions from SUVs and light-duty trucks cause 90% of nitrogen dioxide-related deaths, with suburban driving linked to greatest health damages. The study's findings inform geographically targeted transportation policies and climate action plans for Boston and cities nationwide.
A majority of British residents believe climate change is linked to extreme heat, water shortages, droughts, pests, and wildfires, with 86% saying it's happening, 82% considering it important, and a majority supporting renewable energy.
A study by PIK reveals disparities between scientific attention, policy density, and emissions. Climate protection policies in China and the USA are subject of intense research, while Africa and smaller countries with impressive emission reductions lack research attention.
A new study finds that reducing sulphur in the air can lead to increased natural emissions of methane from wetlands, pushing emissions higher. The study suggests that current targets to reduce human-caused methane emissions need to be more stringent.
A new Stanford study suggests refining how we assess natural carbon storage strategies to ensure the technology lives up to its potential as a climate change solution. The researchers propose a two-step evaluation process to unlock additional project value and improve data for predictive modeling.
Farmers in African mountains reported increased temperatures, reduced fog, and changes in rainfall patterns, leading to lower crop yields, livestock production, and human health concerns.
The European Wetland Map combines various GIS data on wetland types and their distribution to create a standardized dataset that enhances understanding and management of European wetlands. The map informs policy decisions and supports climate mitigation and biodiversity policies.
A new Oxford report suggests that a carbon storage mandate on fossil fuel producers could help the UK meet its climate targets while protecting public finances. The policy scenario explores requiring suppliers to permanently store rising percentages of their CO2 emissions.
A new study suggests that counter climate change organizations are more likely to arise in countries with stronger environmental policies and institutions. These groups often have eclectic views not directly tied to economic or political interests, and are increasingly global in scope.
A 40-year study reveals increasingly common and devastating megadroughts worldwide, with significant impacts on ecosystems and agriculture. The research used global meteorological data to track changes in drought patterns and their effects on vegetation, providing insights into the paradoxical responses of different forest types.
China has achieved significant progress in reducing PM2.5 concentrations by 35.6% since 2015, while also increasing non-fossil energy consumption to 17.5%. However, rising ozone levels and extreme weather events pose new challenges, emphasizing the need for adaptive measures and stricter air quality standards.
The study finds that only seven percent of announced green hydrogen production capacity has been completed on time, highlighting the need for more competitive projects. Researchers recommend using demand-side instruments like binding quotas to channel green hydrogen into sectors with high energy demands.
Researchers emphasize global importance of tree crops for achieving UN Sustainable Development Goals, while promoting biodiversity conservation and mitigating climate change. Tree crops provide stable habitats, prevent soil erosion, and contribute to greenhouse gas reduction.
A new study by Boston University School of Public Health found that lower access to air conditioning increases the need for emergency care for wildfire smoke exposure. People living in areas with low air conditioning availability are at higher risk, especially children and the Black population.
The project creates a comprehensive U.S.-Japan flood risk data inventory and develops a two-way coupled, multi-scale, agent-based model that considers marginalized groups. Researchers will use the developed model to evaluate the impact of insurance policies on these groups.
The study found that climate policies would lead to a smaller increase in consumer food prices in wealthier countries, with prices rising by 1.25 times, compared to 2.45 times in lower-income countries. This means consumers in wealthier countries are shielded from fluctuations in farm prices.
A new study by University of California, Davis, found that the current estimate of the social cost of carbon is too low, increasing to over $280 per ton of CO2 emitted. This higher estimate reflects the impact of climate change on human welfare, including economic growth and unique natural systems.
A combination of policies is necessary to encourage widespread adoption of environmentally friendly technologies like solar panels and heat pumps. Removing barriers for renters, such as subsidies and investment requirements, can make these technologies more accessible and affordable.
A new UN report highlights the economic benefits of investing in sustainable land and water management to reduce drought costs. The study estimates that nature-based solutions can generate up to $10.1 trillion in business value by 2030, while creating millions of jobs.
A study by University of Copenhagen researchers highlights the challenges in investing in green hydrogen projects, citing market risks, regulatory uncertainty, and high costs. Oil and gas companies are better positioned to finance large-scale hydrogen projects due to their expertise and infrastructure.
A new seven-point strategy devised by international experts outlines steps for safe, equitable, and sustainable global water management. The plan emphasizes local collaboration, community engagement, and inclusive policies to foster peace and security.
A new legal framework proposes addressing climate change through the lens of unjust enrichment, circumventing challenges of quantifying abstract harms and allowing for accountability without strict proof of wrongdoing. This approach offers a means to address environmental violations even when specific damages are difficult to establish.
A study by Cornell University researchers recommends that the costs of new power lines be borne by those who benefit from them, resolving disagreements over cost allocation. The 'beneficiary pays' approach encourages investment in the grid without disputes over cost-sharing.
A resilience index is proposed as a more suitable indicator of policy success than GDP, incorporating social and environmental components. This approach aims to steer decision-makers within the planet's 'safe operating space', balancing competing interests and trade-offs.
A recent study by Sharon Baute found that 95% of German respondents agree climate change is partly man-made, but public approval heavily depends on policy design features. Social components, such as investing in human capital or providing subsidies for low-income households, can significantly increase support for EU climate policy.
A new study warns that Colorado's West Slope basins, supporting a $5 billion agriculture economy, face a potential tipping point due to drought vulnerability. The research suggests that even moderate climate change and streamflow declines can threaten water storage, agriculture, and municipal supplies.
Young people face significant obstacles in participating in UN climate conferences due to economic barriers and red tape. The majority of participants are older than 26, and those who do participate often have limited influence on decisions affecting their future.
A comprehensive study published in Science finds that implementing four global policies can reduce mismanaged plastic waste by 91% and plastic-related greenhouse gas emissions by one-third. The policies include increasing post-consumer recycled plastic, capping new plastic production, investing in waste management, and implementing a s...
A study published in PLOS Climate found that single corporate climate policies have limited value for policymakers and investors. Companies with a range of climate policies, however, show an average of over 20% emission reductions. This suggests that a comprehensive policy mix is more effective for supporting climate action.
Pensoft Publishers will host a side event at COP29, showcasing the impact of open science on effective policy-making. The event aims to demonstrate how open-access research informs evidence-based policies, enabling successful implementation of biodiversity and climate frameworks.
A policy brief by the Complexity Science Hub calls on G20 countries to collect granular supply chain data to identify key weaknesses and prioritize resilience-building investments. The move aims to prevent economic collapse in the face of future climate shocks, affecting millions worldwide.
Scientists from leading institutions and societies urge governments to adopt scalable, innovative microbial technologies to combat climate change. These solutions have shown promise in carbon sequestration, methane mitigation, bioenergy production, bioremediation, and more.
The EU's sustainable finance framework urgently needs to expand to address climate goals. The current taxonomy will not meet the Paris Climate Agreement target of limiting global temperature rise to 1.5°C.
Climate change exacerbates systemic inequalities, particularly for women, girls, and gender minorities. Researchers call for greater inclusion of their voices in climate governance discussions to address disproportionate health impacts and promote gender equity.
A recent study found that every 1°C increase in heat exposure increases preterm birth by 4%, while a heatwave can lead to a 26% increased risk. The review also highlights marked increases in gestational diabetes, stillbirths, and congenital anomalies.
Researchers found that windfall profits from oil and gas companies in 2022 would be enough to cover climate payments for nearly five years. Governments can redistribute these excess profits to fight the climate crisis, with a tax on windfall profits being a proposed solution.
New research from the University of Michigan shows that small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs) are economically viable and can be deployed by 2050. SMRs have the potential to reduce US carbon dioxide emissions by up to 59 million metric tons annually, making them a low-cost option for meeting energy demands and emission goals.
The ForestPaths project evaluates the effects of current legislation on European forests, focusing on climate change mitigation and biodiversity. The study identifies 17 green initiatives with prominent relations to forest conditions, emphasizing conservation, active management, afforestation, and wood processing activities.
The $1 trillion investment in climate change mitigation depends on state and local government spending. Local jurisdictions must adopt an experimental attitude to design policies that incentivize consumers and businesses to produce and use more renewable energy. Evaluation of program outcomes is crucial for decarbonization.
A Dartmouth study has quantified the global economic fallout of El Niño, finding it costs the economy $4.1 trillion and $5.7 trillion in the half-decade after each event. The study's findings are included in the 10 New Insights in Climate Science report ahead of COP29.
The Berlin Declaration aims to achieve carbon neutrality through basic research and international cooperation. The declaration highlights the importance of developing effective measures to reduce CO2 emissions in all sectors, including energy and industry.
A new commentary found that power plants' use of air pollution control devices (APCDs) saved up to 9,100 lives and up to $100 billion in health costs in 2023. The researchers estimated that APCD use could plummet and severely jeopardize the health of the public if Project 2025 or the America First Agenda is enacted.
A new study by UC Davis engineers and economists finds that producing materials like steel, plastics, and cement inflicts $79 billion a year on the global climate. The team calculated climate costs using the Environmental Protection Agency's Social Cost of Carbon standard.