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• FM 3-24.2: Tactics in Counterinsurgency

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  "This field manual establishes doctrine (fundamental principles) for tactical counterinsurgency (COIN) operations at the company, battalion, and brigade level. It is based on lessons learned from historic counterinsurgencies and current operations. This manual continues the efforts of FM 3-24, Counterinsurgency, in combining the historic approaches to COIN with the realities of today's operational environment (OE)--an environment modified by a population explosion, urbanization, globalization, technology, the spread of religious fundamentalism, resource demand, climate change and natural disasters, and proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. […]. Chapter 1, Operational Environment of Counterinsurgency, defines insurgent and counterinsurgent while using the operational variables and mission variables to describe the OE. […]. Chapter 2, Foundations of Insurgency, categorizes insurgent groups by their components-- elements, dynamics, and strategies and their manifestations--tactics, strengths, and vulnerabilities. Chapter 3, Foundations of Counterinsurgency, covers the seven lines of effort, tactical considerations, clear-hold-build operations, and counterinsurgency phases. Chapter 4, Planning in Counterinsurgency, arguably the most important chapter, covers planning for tactical units during counterinsurgency operations. It also covers planning horizons and targeting. Chapter 5, Offensive Operations in Counterinsurgency, addresses offensive techniques used by tactical units during counterinsurgency operations. Chapter 6, Defensive Operations in Counterinsurgency, addresses defensive techniques used by tactical units during counterinsurgency operations. Chapter 7, Stability Operations in Counterinsurgency, addresses stability techniques used by tactical units during counterinsurgency operations. Chapter 8, Working with Host Nation Security Forces, covers the seven steps (MORTEAM) units use to train, advise, and partner with Host Nation security forces."

  United States. Department of the Army

  2009-04
• Frequently Asked Questions about Global Warming and Climate Change: Back to Basics

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  "Many human activities release 'greenhouse gases' into the atmosphere. The levels of these gases are increasing at a faster rate than at any time in hundreds of thousands of years. […] This fact sheet addresses the most frequently asked questions about the science of global warming and climate change. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change's (IPCC) Fourth Assessment Report (2007) serves as the key reference for this brochure. The IPCC was formed jointly in 1988 by the United Nations Environment Programme and the United Nations World Meteorological Organization. The IPCC brings together the world's top scientists, economists and other experts, synthesizes peer-reviewed scientific literature on climate change studies, and produces authoritative assessments of the current state of knowledge of climate change."

  United States. Environmental Protection Agency

  2009-04
• India: Impact of Climate Change to 2030: A Commissioned Research Report

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  "This assessment identifies and summarizes the latest peer-reviewed research related to the impact of climate change on India, drawing on both the literature summarized in the latest Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) assessment reports and on other peer-reviewed research literature and relevant reporting. It includes such impact as sea level rise, water availability, agricultural shifts, ecological disruptions and species extinctions, infrastructure at risk from extreme weather events (severity and frequency), and disease patterns. This paper addresses the extent to which regions within India are vulnerable to climate change impact. The targeted time frame is to 2030, although various studies referenced in this report have diverse time frames. The research does not draw inferences about the potential for internal or interstate conflict arising out of changes, e.g., in water supply or in likely migration from Bangladesh; such analyses will be conducted in the subsequent efforts described above. This assessment also identifies (Annex B) deficiencies in climate change data that would enhance the IC [Intelligence Community] understanding of potential impact on India and other countries/regions."

  National Intelligence Council (U.S.)

  Joint Global Change Research Institute; Battelle Memorial Institute. Pacific Northwest Division

  2009-04
• Russia: Impact of Climate Change to 2030: A Commissioned Research Report

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  "This assessment identifies and summarizes the latest peer-reviewed research related to the impact of climate change on Russia, drawing on both the literature summarized in the latest Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) assessment reports and on other peer-reviewed research literature and relevant reporting. It includes such impact as sea level rise, water availability, agricultural shifts, ecological disruptions and species extinctions, infrastructure at risk from extreme weather events (severity and frequency), and disease patterns. This paper addresses the extent to which regions within Russia are vulnerable to climate change impact. The targeted time frame is to 2030, although various studies referenced in this report have diverse time frames. This assessment also identifies (Annex B) deficiencies in climate change data that would enhance the IC [Intelligence Community] understanding of potential impact on Russia and other countries/regions."

  National Intelligence Council (U.S.)

  Joint Global Change Research Institute; Battelle Memorial Institute. Pacific Northwest Division

  2009-04
• China: Impact of Climate Change to 2030: A Commissioned Research Report

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  "This assessment identifies and summarizes the latest peer-reviewed research related to the impact of climate change on China, drawing on both the literature summarized in the latest Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) assessment reports and on other peer-reviewed research literature and relevant reporting. It includes such impact as sea level rise, water availability, agricultural shifts, ecological disruptions and species extinctions, infrastructure at risk from extreme weather events (severity and frequency), and disease patterns. This paper addresses the extent to which regions within China are vulnerable to climate change impact. The targeted time frame is to 2030, although various studies referenced in this report have diverse time frames. This assessment also identifies (Annex B) deficiencies in climate change data that would enhance the IC [Intelligence Community] understanding of potential impact on China and other countries/regions."

  National Intelligence Council (U.S.)

  Joint Global Change Research Institute; Battelle Memorial Institute. Pacific Northwest Division

  2009-04
• Climate Change: Observations on Federal Efforts to Adapt to a Changing Climate, Statement of John Stephenson, Director National Resources and Environment, Testimony Before the Subcommittee on Emery and Environment, Committee on Energy and Commerce, House of Representatives

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  "Changes in the climate attributable to increased concentrations of greenhouse gases may have significant environmental and economic impacts in the United States. For example, climate change could threaten coastal areas with rising sea levels, alter agricultural productivity, and increase the intensity and frequency of floods and storms. Federal, state, and local agencies are tasked with a wide array of responsibilities that will be affected by a changing climate, such as managing natural resources. Furthermore, climate change could increase the cost of federal programs, such as crop and flood insurance, and place new stresses on infrastructure. Greenhouse gases already in the atmosphere will continue altering the climate system into the future regardless of emissions control efforts. Therefore, adaptation- defined as adjustments to natural or human systems in response to actual or expected climate change-is an important part of the response to climate change. This testimony summarizes GAO's prior and ongoing work examining (1) actions that federal, state, local, and international authorities are taking to adapt to a changing climate, (2) the challenges that federal, state, and local officials face in their efforts to adapt, and (3) actions that the Congress and federal agencies could take to help address these challenges."

  United States. Government Accountability Office

  Stephenson, John D.

  2009-03-25
• COOP: National Guard's Role During a Catastrophic Emergency

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  "Today's world climate remains volatile. Since the attacks on September 11, 2001, Americans have awakened to the on-going threat of terrorism. Widely dispersed chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and cyberspace security (CBRN-C) materials, technologies and equipment often have dual uses. Preventing rogue states and terrorist organizations (state or nonstate supported) from acquiring these materials is a formidable challenge. Furthermore, the world is experiencing dramatic weather changes. Global climate change has caused unusual and devastating shifts in weather patterns, which in turn have triggered catastrophic events. This SRP proposes establishment of a network of National Guard (NG) Continuity of Operation (COOP) sites to strengthen the U.S Government's response to catastrophic events. This SRP provides a strategic methodology and standardized template for using the NG as a force multiplier to support the federal government through dedicated COOP sites."

  Army War College (U.S.)

  Eshelman, Mark

  2009-03-24
• United States and Europe: Current Issues [March 16, 2009]

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  "Many observers stress that in terms of security and prosperity the United States and Europe have grown increasingly interdependent. Both sides of the Atlantic face a common set of challenges, including terrorism and transnational crime, weapons proliferation, energy security, climate change and environmental degradation, the destabilizing effects of failing and rogue states, and instability in global financial markets. Both sides are proponents of democracy, open societies, human rights, and free markets. Supporters of close U.S.-European cooperation argue that neither the United States nor Europe can adequately address such an agenda alone, and that the track record shows that the two sides can accomplish much more when they work together. […] This report discusses nine broad topics selected as key issues in U.S.-European interests and relations. It does not represent a full survey of what would be a very long list of global issues that relate to important U.S. and European interests. For example, the United States and Europe share concerns about democratization in countries like Belarus and others around the world. Both sides share concerns about stability in the Balkans, Ukraine, Georgia, the Caucasus region and central Asia. Relations with countries such as China, India, and Turkey, as well as the countries of Africa, are of great importance to both. While not every such important topic is covered in this report, the nine issues that are presented are intended to capture a broad overview of some of the highest priority items on the transatlantic agenda."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Mix, Derek E.

  2009-03-16
• Comments on Draft Technical Support Document for Endangerment Analysis for Greenhouse Gas Emissions under the Clean Air Act

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  "These comments are based on the draft Technical Support Document for Endangerment Analysis for Greenhouse Gas Emissions under the Clean Air Act (hereafter draft TSD) issued by the Climate Change Division of the Office of Atmospheric Programs on March 9, 2009. Unfortunately, because we were only given a few days to review this lengthy document these comments are of necessity much less comprehensive and polished than they would have been if more time had been allowed. We are prepared, however, to provide added information, more detailed comments on specific points raised, and any assistance in making changes if requested by OAR. As of the best information we currently have, the GHG/CO2 hypothesis as to the cause of global warming, which this Draft TSD supports, is currently an invalid hypothesis from a scientific viewpoint because it fails a number of critical comparisons with available observable data. Any one of these failings should be enough to invalidate the hypothesis; the breadth of these failings leaves no other possible conclusion based on current data."

  United States. Environmental Protection Agency

  Carlin, Alan

  2009-03-16
• Climate Change: Current Issues and Policy Tools [March 6, 2009]

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  This CRS report discusses climate change. "On June 2, 2008, the Senate agreed to consider a bill (S. 3036) to control greenhouse gas emissions in the United States. In the 111th Congress, leadership in both chambers have announced their intentions to pass bills in 2009 to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. These actions are indicative of the pressures Members of Congress increasingly face on whether and how to address human-induced climate change. Contentious debates scrutinize issues of science, economics, values, geopolitics and a host of other concerns. Deliberations also weigh the appropriateness of alternative policy tools and program designs. [...]. For decision-makers considering actions to address climate change, an assortment of policy instruments is available; studies suggest that a combination could be most effective in achieving various climate policy objectives. Current policy attention has focused on 'cap and trade' strategies to reduce [green house gases (GHG)] emissions, with additional policy tools aimed at promoting the technology development considered necessary to slow climate change significantly. In parallel, growing attention is being given to supporting adaptations to expected future changes, as well as to strategies to gain effective international engagement in reducing GHG. [...]. Policy options can ease the adjustments required and modify the distribution of costs--or potential wealth embodied in distribution of emission allowances--across specific sectors or populations. A core challenge of policy design, then, is balancing the climate effectiveness of a policy, the economic costs, and its distributional effects."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Leggett, Jane A.

  2009-03-06
• Environmental Protection Agency: Major Management Challenges, Report to the Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies, Committee on Appropriations, House of Representatives

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  "The Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) overarching mission is to protect human health and the environment by implementing and enforcing environmental laws intended to improve the quality of the nation's air and water and to protect its land. EPA's policies and programs affect virtually all segments of the economy, society, and government. As such, it operates in a highly complex and controversial regulatory arena. In recent years, GAO has identified several key challenges EPA faces and corrective actions that would enable the agency to more effectively accomplish its mission. GAO was asked to identify challenges at EPA that hinder its ability to implement its programs effectively, based on prior GAO work. These challenges include (1) improving agency-wide management, (2) transforming EPA's processes for assessing and controlling toxic chemicals,(3) improving implementation of the Clean Air Act, (4) reducing pollution in the nation's waters, (5) speeding the pace of cleanup at Superfund and other hazardous waste sites, and (6) addressing emerging climate change issues."

  United States. Government Accountability Office

  2009-03-04
• Worldwide Emerging Environmental Issues Affecting the U.S. Military. March 2009

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  "Switzerland and Italy are cooperating in redrawing their national borders in the Matterhorn mountain area, due to melting Alpine glaciers that previously set the border lines. The new proposal considers the rocks rather than glaciers as border criteria. The Swiss-Italian border change will not affect any inhabited area. Franco Narducci, of Italy's opposition Democratic Party, who is preparing the bill for redefining the frontier, said that similar negotiations will be proposed to France and Austria. Redrawing these borders creates a precedent with implications for other effects of climate change in other regions such as the Arctic and Antarctic regions, and the Low-lying Island States."

  The Millennium Project

  2009-03
• Defending the Amazon: Conservation, Development and Security in Brazil

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  "The struggle between development and conservation remains salient with today's focus on global climate change. This conflict is seen most clearly in the Brazilian Amazon. International, developed nations advocate conservation, while developing nations fight for progress. Conservationists expect international organizations, developed nations, and domestic grassroots organizations to pressure the Brazilian government in conserving the Amazon. Development advocates point to the need to stabilize Brazil's economy and expand into the Amazon for its untapped resources. To understand the impasse between these two forces, one must look to a third actor: the Brazilian military. This thesis examines the critical role of the military in Amazonian policy. Guaranteeing Brazil's borders and national security, the military views its infiltration of the Amazon as part of its mission. It also sees development and population increase as tools the government must use to increase sovereignty over the Amazon. This thesis concludes that the military and its concerns must be addressed before development policy in the Amazon can incorporate conservation. The Amazon must be conserved as a global resource, but will continue to be developed until the military's role and views are changed."

  Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.)

  Hamilton, Alisha E.

  2009-03
• Readout on the President's Meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Aso [February 24, 2009]

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  "President Obama today held in-depth consultations with the Prime Minister of Japan on the global economic crisis and other areas for bilateral cooperation. The President underscored his firm commitment to the U.S.-Japan Alliance and called for continued progress in modernizing the Alliance by implementing the joint realignment initiative. The two leaders agreed to work closely and urgently, as the world's leading economies, to stimulate demand at home and abroad, to help other countries respond to the global crisis, to unfreeze credit markets, and to seek concrete results from the April London Economic Summit and through the G-8. They agreed fully on the need to resist protectionism. With respect to regional issues, they pledged to work closely through the Six-Party process to verifiably eliminate North Korea's nuclear program and to deal with the problem of North Korea's missiles, as well as other matters including Japan's abducted citizens. Noting the importance of stabilizing Afghanistan, President Obama expressed appreciation for Japan's extensive contributions to date and strongly welcomed Japan's intention to play a greater role in assisting Afghanistan as well as Pakistan to improve security and economic development. The two leaders both saw climate change as a priority for both nations and discussed ways of working together, including in an effort to assist developing nations. They pledged to build on the strong record of joint research and development on clean energy technology."

  United States. Office of the White House Press Secretary

  2009-02-24
• Climate Change: Science Highlights [February 23, 2009]

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  "Scientific conclusions have become more compelling regarding the influence of human activities on the Earth's climate. In 2007, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change declared that evidence of global warming was 'unequivocal.' It concluded that '[m]ost of the observed increase in globally averaged temperatures since the mid-20th century is very likely due to the observed increase in anthropogenic [human-related] greenhouse gas [GHG] concentrations.' The IPCC concluded that human activities have markedly increased atmospheric concentrations of 'greenhouse gases' (GHG), including carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O), and gases (such as chlorofluorocarbons, CFC) that are controlled under the Montreal Protocol to protect the stratospheric ozone layer. From the beginning of the Industrial Revolution, CO2 has risen from about 280 parts per million (ppm) to about 386 ppm today (up 38%). The concentration of CO2 is higher now than in at least 800,000 years before present."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Leggett, Jane A.

  2009-02-23
• Zimbabwe [February 20, 2009]

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  This report discusses Zimbabwe's political and economic climate including the political situation (parliamentary elections of 2005, restrictions on political freedoms, 2005 senate elections, the movement for Democratic Change (MDC), Internal ZANU-PF struggles, political violence); the humanitarian situation (Operation Murambatsvina, Zimbabwe's Food Crisis, HIV/AIDS); the economy (the IMF and World Bank, attempts to revive agricultural industry, the mining industry and nationalization of foreign companies, the military and the economy), and current U.S. policy initiatives aimed toward Zimbabwe. "Key elements of U.S. policy toward Zimbabwe have included the imposition of targeted sanctions against high-ranking ZANU-PF members and their affiliates, support for South Africa to spearhead an African effort to restore democracy, and the provision of assistance intended to help the country's poor and strengthen civil society."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Blanchard, Lauren Ploch

  2009-02-20
• Alternative Fuels and Advanced Technology Vehicles: Issues in Congress [February 13, 2009]

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  "Alternative fuels and advanced technology vehicles are seen by proponents as integral to improving urban air quality, decreasing dependence on foreign oil, and reducing emissions of greenhouse gases. However, major barriers--especially economics--currently prevent the widespread use of these fuels and technologies. Because of these barriers, and the potential benefits, there is continued congressional interest in providing incentives and other support for their development and commercialization. Alternative fuels and advanced technology vehicles have been addressed early in the 111th Congress, as both the House and Senate versions of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (H.R. 1) contained provisions supporting their development and deployment. While some of these provisions were removed in conference, the final version still contains provisions for tax incentives, federal grants and loans, and other federal support for alternative fuels and advanced vehicles. The 111th Congress is likely to further discuss alternative fuels and advanced technology vehicles as it addresses other key topics. These include their role in any federal policy to address climate change, and their role in federal energy policy. The 111th Congress may also play an oversight role in the development of major regulations: the Environmental Protection Agency's implementation of the renewable fuel standard enacted in 2005, and expanded in 2007; the Department of Transportation's implementation of new fuel economy standards enacted in 2007; and the Department of Agriculture's implementation of a new Farm Bill enacted in 2008."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Yacobucci, Brent D.

  2009-02-13
• Biochar: Examination of an Emerging Concept to Mitigate Climate Change [Februrary 3, 2009]

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  "Biochar is a charcoal produced under high temperatures using crop residues, animal manure, or any type of organic waste material. Biochar looks very similar to potting soil. The combined production and use of biochar is considered a carbon-negative process, meaning that carbon is removed from the atmosphere and will not be released into the atmosphere at a later time. Biochar has multiple potential environmental benefits, foremost the potential to sequester carbon in the soil for hundreds to thousands of years at an estimate. Studies suggest that crop yields can increase as a result of applying biochar as a fertilizer to the soil. Some contend that biochar has value as an immediate climate change mitigation strategy. Scientific experiments suggest that greenhouse gas emissions are reduced significantly with biochar application to crop fields. Obstacles that may stall rapid adoption of biochar production systems include technology costs, system operation and maintenance, feedstock availability, and biochar handling. Biochar research and development is in its infancy. Nevertheless, interest in biochar as a multifaceted solution to agricultural and natural resource issues is growing at a rapid pace both nationally and internationally. Past Congresses have proposed numerous climate change bills, many of which do not directly address mitigation and adaptation technologies at developmental stages like biochar. However, biochar may equip agricultural and forestry producers with numerous revenue-generating products: carbon offsets, fertilizer, and energy. A clearly defined policy medium that supports this technology has yet to emerge (e.g., soil conservation, alternative energy, climate change). This report briefly describes biochar, its potential advantages and disadvantages, legislative support, and research and development activities underway in the United States and abroad."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Bracmort, Kelsi

  2009-02-03
• EPA Needs a Comprehensive Research Plan and Policies to Fulfill its Emerging Climate Change Role

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  "We sought to answer the question: how well do the policies, procedures, and plans of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) help ensure that its climate change research fulfills its role in climate change? [...] EPA is 1 of 13 federal agencies that make up the U.S. Climate Change Science Program, which guides federal research through its strategic plan. Part of EPA's role is understanding the regional consequences of global change. EPA's Office of Research and Development (ORD) handles this function. EPA's Office of Air and Radiation conducts activities related to mitigating greenhouse gases. ORD manages EPA's climate change research function through its Global Change Research Program."

  United States. Environmental Protection Agency. Office of the Inspector General

  Gupta, Manju; Harris, Jeffrey; Hart, Jeffrey S.

  2009-02-02
• Local Strategies for Addressing Climate Change

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  "The guidebook was adopted by ICLEI [International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives] as part of its Climate Resilient Communities program, a NOAA [National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration]-funded initiative that helps local governments develop tools to protect their communities from the impacts and costs associated with climate change. A sister ICLEI program, Cities for Climate Protection, offers a framework for local governments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve livability."

  United States. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

  2009-02
• Crafting Strategy in an Age of Transition

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  "The United States is at a transition point nearly unparalleled in its history. Years of war abroad have severely strained America's military, and the ongoing economic crisis will force ever-greater constraints on all forms of discretionary spending. Rising regional powers, energy scarcity, climate change, and failing states are some of the myriad variables that will combine to form a daunting set of strategic challenges for the Obama Administration. Not since the late 1940s has America's defense community faced challenges of such size and scope. Unlike the immediate aftermath of the strategic shocks of Pearl Harbor and 9/11--when the imperatives of war demanded a focus on near-term requirements--the years following such fundamental disruptions to America's strategic context offer valuable opportunities and time to reflect on what has changed, reset defense priorities, and renew US strategy for the long term. Then as now, as the fog of uncertainty associated with the emergence of a new geostrategic era begins to dissipate, the contours of the strategic environment can be more clearly perceived. As the fog lifts it becomes apparent that despite valiant efforts and good intentions, America suffers from strategic distraction, dislocation, and near-exhaustion. [...]. America's defense posture today assumes far more strategic risk than is prudent and rests on a shifting global foundation certain to exacerbate the constraints and risks to US power and prestige. The defense community is not as prepared as it should be for the challenges of today and tomorrow--it can, and must, do better."

  Army War College (U.S.)

  Brimley, Shawn

  2009-02
• U.S. Global Climate Change Policy: Evolving Views on Cost, Competitiveness, and Comprehensiveness [Updated January 29, 2009]

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  This CRS report discuses the evolution of U.S. Global Climate Change Policy through the years. "U.S. policy toward global climate change evolved from a 'study only' to a more 'study and action' orientation in 1992 with ratification of the U.N. Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). The Convention committed developed countries to aim at returning their greenhouse gas emissions to their 1990 levels by the year 2000. The U.S. decision to ratify the UNFCCC reflected both the nonbinding nature of the accord and analyses that suggested that the United States could achieve the necessary reduction at little or no cost. Under the UNFCCC, developed countries were to adopt national plans and policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The United States submitted such plans in 1992, 1994, 1997, 2002, and 2006." This report also discusses "The Energy Policy Act of 1992 (EPACT) [that] has been the principal U.S. statutory response to the UNFCCC. In addition, the George H.W. Bush and Clinton Administrations encouraged voluntary reductions by industry through administrative initiatives, such as the EPA's [Environmental Protection Agency] various 'green' programs ['No Regrets']." The report also talks about the Kyoto Protocol, which laid out limits on emissions for developed nations. The Protocol was earlier referred as Senate Resolution 98 (S. Res. 98).

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Parker, Larry B.; Blodgett, John E.

  2009-01-29
• Readout on the President's Calls to Foreign Leaders [January 27, 2009]

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  This document is a White House Press Office release from January 27, 2009 regarding President Obama's calls to foreign leaders. "The President had a warm, positive conversation with Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd. This was the first time they have spoken since the President's inauguration. They had previously spoken during the campaign and after the election. The President and Prime Minister discussed their respective responses to the global economic crisis and how they are dealing with the domestic consequences in their countries and the international impact. They also discussed how the two countries can cooperate further on issues such as climate change and nuclear proliferation. The President also had a good conversation with Colombian President Uribe. This was the first time they have spoken since the President's inauguration. They had previously spoken during the campaign and after the election. President Obama stated his desire to work together closely and with other regional leaders to improve the U.S. relationship with Latin America. The two presidents discussed cooperation between the U.S. and Colombia on counternarcotics, security, and human rights. President Obama reassured President Uribe that the United States will continue to support Colombia's efforts to improve its security and prosperity."

  United States. Office of the White House Press Secretary

  2009-01-27
• Alternative Fuels and Advanced Technology Vehicles: Issues in Congress [January 27, 2009]

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  From the Summary: "Alternative fuels and advanced technology vehicles are seen by proponents as integral to improving urban air quality, decreasing dependence on foreign oil, and reducing emissions of greenhouse gases. However, major barriers--especially economics--currently prevent the widespread use of these fuels and technologies. Because of these barriers, and the potential benefits, there is continued congressional interest in providing incentives and other support for their development and commercialization. [...] The 111th Congress is likely to discuss alternative fuels and advanced technology vehicles as it addresses several topics. These include: 1) the potential for supporting their development and deployment through economic stimulus legislation; 2) their role in any federal policy to address climate change; and 3) their role in federal energy policy. The 111th Congress may also play an oversight role in the development of regulations including: the Environmental Protection Agency's implementation of the renewable fuel standard enacted in 2005, and expanded in 2007; the Department of Transportation's implementation of new fuel economy standards enacted in 2007; and the Department of Agriculture's implementation of a new Farm Bill enacted in 2008.] [...] This report supersedes CRS Report RL33564, Alternative Fuels and Advanced Technology Vehicles: Issues in Congress, by Brent D. Yacobucci."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Yacobucci, Brent D.

  2009-01-27
• Selected Issues Related to an Expansion of the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) [January 23, 2009]

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  "High petroleum and gasoline prices, concerns over global climate change, and the desire to promote domestic rural economies have greatly increased interest in biofuels as an alternative to petroleum in the U.S. transportation sector. Biofuels, most notably corn ethanol, have grown significantly in the past few years as a component of U.S. motor fuel supply. Ethanol, the most commonly used biofuel, is blended in more than half of all U.S. gasoline (at the 10% level or lower in most cases). However, current biofuels supply of 6.8 billion gallons only represents about 4% of total vehicle fuel demand. The Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 (EISA, P.L. 110-140) requires ever-larger amounts of biofuels produced from feedstocks other than corn starch, including sugarcane, oil crops, and cellulose, and promotes the development of these fuels. EISA requires the use of 36 billion gallons of renewable fuels annually in 2022, of which only 15 billion gallons can be ethanol from corn starch. The remaining 21 billion gallons are to be so-called 'advanced biofuels.' The previous RFS [Renewable Fuel Standard] in the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (P.L. 109-58) required the use of only 7.5 billion gallons in 2012, increasing to an expected 8.6 billion gallons in 2022, of which only 250 million gallons of cellulosic biofuels would be required. Although EISA has set the goal of significantly expanding biofuels supply and use in the coming decades, questions remain about the ability of the U.S. biofuels industry to meet the rapidly increasing mandate. Current U.S. biofuels supply relies almost exclusively on ethanol produced from Midwest corn. During the 2008 crop year, 31% of the U.S. corn crop is projected to be used for ethanol production. Due to the concerns with significant expansion in corn-based ethanol supply, interest has grown in expanding the market for biodiesel produced from soybeans and other oil crops. However, a significant increase in U.S. biofuels would likely require a movement away from food and grain crops as feedstocks. Other biofuels feedstock sources, including cellulosic biomass, are promising, but technological barriers make their future uncertain."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Yacobucci, Brent D.; Capehart, Tom

  2009-01-23
• President's Calls to Foreign Leaders [January 23, 2009]

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  This White House Press Office release provides information on President Obama's January 23, 2009 calls to foreign leaders. "This afternoon, President Obama made phone calls to three foreign leaders and to the Secretary General of the United Nations. Prime Harper of Canada. President Obama thanked Prime Minister Harper for his congratulations on the inauguration. He reiterated his appreciation for Canada's friendship and his commitment to travel to Canada as his first foreign visit as President. He discussed the shared challenges we face in Afghanistan, on climate change and in confronting the worsening global economy. King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia. President Obama underscored the importance of a strong U.S.-Saudi relationship. He underscored his appreciation for King Abdullah's leadership on the Arab Peace Initiative, the Interfaith Dialogue and for the pledge of assistance to the Palestinian Authority. He asked for Saudi support for efforts to stop weapons smuggling into Gaza and expressed interest in continuing counter-terrorism cooperation..."

  United States. Office of the White House Press Secretary

  2009-01-23
• Clean Air Issues in the 111th Congress [January 16, 2009]

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  "Attention to air quality issues in the 111th Congress is expected to focus on climate change and the regulation of emissions from electric utilities. The last Congress devoted considerable attention to climate change: hearings were held by at least 10 committees, and 17 bills to cap emissions of greenhouse gases (GHGs) were introduced. Legislation was not enacted: a combination of opposition within the Congress and the opposition of the Bush Administration to anything beyond research and voluntary emission reductions caused Congress to move on to other issues. With fewer opponents of climate legislation in the 111th Congress and an incoming Administration committed to action on the issue, both the House and Senate are expected to begin moving climate legislation this year. Congress may also address several issues related to emissions of conventional pollutants (sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides) and mercury from electric utilities. Regulations addressing these emissions were vacated by the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals in 2008, leaving major gaps in EPA and state regulations. While EPA can develop new regulations that address the court's concerns, legislation might provide a quicker and more straightforward solution, resolving ambiguities in current law and reducing the likelihood of further delays from litigation."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  McCarthy, James E.

  2009-01-16
• Homeland Security Presidential Directive 25: Arctic Region Policy

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  "The United States is an Arctic nation, with varied and compelling interests in that region. This directive takes into account several developments, including, among others: altered national policies on homeland security and defense; the effects of climate change and increasing human activity in the Arctic region; the establishment and ongoing work of the Arctic Council; and a growing awareness that the Arctic region is both fragile and rich in resources. It is the policy of the United States to: meet national security and homeland security needs relevant to the Arctic region; protect the Arctic environment and conserve its biological resources; ensure that natural resource management and economic development in the region are environmentally sustainable; strengthen institutions for cooperation among the eight Arctic nations (the United States, Canada, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, the Russian Federation, and Sweden); involve the Arctic's indigenous communities in decisions that affect them; and enhance scientific monitoring and research into local, regional, and global environmental issues."

  United States. White House Office

  Bush, George W. (George Walker), 1946-

  2009-01-09
• Impacts of Climate Change on the Chesapeake Bay, Joint Oversight Field Hearing Before the Subcommittee on Insular Affairs, Oceans and Wildlife, Joint with the Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and Public Lands of the Committee on Natural Resources, U.S. House of Representatives, One Hundred Eleventh Congress, First Session, June 23, 2009

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  From the opening statement of Raul M. Grijalva: "I want to thank you all for coming today and thank you for warmly welcoming all of us this morning to this beautiful spot along side this most celebrated estuary. The Chesapeake Bay has been a home to people for thousands of years. Drawn by the verdant landscape and bountiful waters, many tribes settled along its shores. The rich land and waters also drew English colonists, setting the stage for this region to become the birthplace of our nation. But today we reflect upon that past knowing that the future of the Bay is beset by challenges: from years of pollution brought about by agricultural runoff and unchecked development and now by climate change, which is further threatening this fragile ecosystem." Statements, letters, and materials submitted for the record include those of the following: Madeleine Z. Bordallo, Raul M. Grijalva, Frank Kratovil Jr., John P. Sarbanes, Donald F. Boesch, Michael Bojokles, Bernie Fowler, Anson Hines, Tommy Leggett, Marvin Moriarty, Stuart Parnes, William A. Stiles, and Robert J. Wood.

  United States. Government Printing Office

  2009
• Managing Our Ocean and Wildlife Resources in a Dynamic Environment: Priorities for the New Administration and the 111th Congress, Oversight Hearing Before the Subcommittee on Insular Affairs, Oceans and Wildlife of the Committee on Natural Resources, U.S. House of Representatives, One Hundred Eleventh Congress, First Session, March 3, 2009

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  From the opening statement of Madeleine Z. Bordallo: "We begin the 111th Congress during a period of great uncertainty for our nation. The United States faces an economic crisis that has led to the loss of more than 3 million jobs, frozen credit markets, and resulted in large Federal and state budget deficits. Ever-increasing energy demands are driving efforts to rapidly develop new and existing energy sources, while the threat of climate change has great potential to affect virtually every aspect of our society. These realities are presenting new challenges to how we manage and conserve our natural resources. Spending freezes and budget cuts, in many states and the territories, have led to a reduction in, and the cancellation of, conservation projects for fish and wildlife habitat restoration." Statements, letters, and materials submitted for the record include those of the following: Henry E. Brown, Madeleine Z. Bordallo, Lois Capps, Doc Hastings, John Baughman, William J. Jackson, Peter Kareiva, Franklin W. Nutter, Shirley A. Pomponi, Brian J. Rothschild, Barton H. Thompson, Jeff Trandahl, and Mark F. Rockefeller.

  United States. Government Printing Office

  2009