Environment vs. Economy

There has been a lot of discussion in recent months about the impact of environmental regulation on the economy. It strikes me as odd that efforts to improve the environment are seen as a potential drag on the economy when in reality there isn't a strong causal link between the two. In fact, it's worth noting that prior to the financial crisis, the UK managed to reduce its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by roughly 17% while its economy grew by 45% since 1990.

Climate Change and Clean Energy

Global food prices have broken yet another record. February prices were 2.2% higher than January, the previous all-time high. February's high was well above the 2008 average when food prices led to riots and hording. Much of this has to do with climate related events - floods in Pakistan and wildfires in Russia. Add to this the recent rise in the price of US oil, which is currently hovering at around $100 a barrel while global prices are closer to the $120 range.

So is now a good time to talk about climate change and clean energy? Unfortunately, a number of people want to avoid the conversation. In doing so we expose ourselves to ever increasing levels of risk and greater instability, both in markets and in countries. The transition to low carbon is happening but not at the scale necessary to meet the challenge. We have to ramp up our efforts if we hope to minimize some of the impacts we're already seeing.

Innovation Nation

I haven't posted since late last year so here's quick recap of 2010: economy in the doldrums; tied with 2005 as the hottest year on record; was also the wettest year on record (which is awkward on a number of levels); the last decade was the hottest on record (with the previous two decades coming in second and third respectively). All and all, not the kind of streak you want to be on.

So what's a possible solution that meets the trifecta of economic recovery, energy security, and climate stability? There's no easy, straightforward answer but a critical element, and one that needs to be ramped up quickly, is the need to embrace a clean energy future. In doing so, you have the opportunity to design new technologies, enable new markets, and most importantly, create new jobs. And it all comes with the additional benefits of a cleaner environment and more secure sources of energy.

Total aside, anyone who can find a poetry blog from 2001 called "Someplace Nice" gets a cookie.

Knowing is Half the Battle

"Knowing is half the battle". GI Joe was right 20 years ago when I sat watching the show every afternoon after school. And believe it or not, the Joes are right today.

I'm a big fan of the website Skeptical Science, which is a great reference for those who want to learn more about climate change. The site has now released The Scientific Guide to Global Warming Skepticism. Highly recommend reading. Duke and the rest of the Joes would be proud.

The Power of One

The challenges posed by climate change are enormous. We have to make a global effort to fundamentally change how we produce and consume energy. But too many people focus on the cost and scale, arguing that significantly reducing emissions will destroy our economy, without fully understanding the long-term benefit to our environment.

Let's take a step back. Don't get distracted by solely focusing on what everyone around the world has to do in order to avoid the risks of global warming. Instead, focus on what you or your family can do to reduce your energy bill and save some cash. Check out the Maryland Energy Administration for some useful hints.

Now, consider the cumulative effect of lots of individuals taking these small steps to reduce our energy and water use, and save money. I know - revolutionary.

Elections, Climate Change, and Energy

This is an excellent post by Andy Revkin on the implications of the mid-term elections on climate change and energy. Check out the "heat ladder" link toward the end. It's an article from 2007 which still resonates today. The more things change, the more things stay the same.

More Evidence of Change

The impacts of climate change are taking place right now, not in some far flung future. There is a lot being done to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and increase the use of low carbon energy around the world, but more is needed to meet the scale of the challenge.