Advanced search    Help

Clear all search criteria

Only 2/3! You are seeing results from the Public Collection, not the complete Full Collection. Sign in to search everything (see eligibility).

• Security of Ecology in Afghanistan

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  "Homer-Dixon refers to five 'tectonic stresses' synergistically confronting the modern world: Population growth and urbanization, lack of reliable energy sources, environmental damage, climate change, and increasing economic inequity. The premise of this essay is that nowhere are these stresses more extreme than in Afghanistan. A geographic, political, economic, and cultural nexus, today the country is profoundly dysfunctional. The environmental threat to its existential viability is widely ignored, given the focus on internal military security. The latter is important for nation-building, á la Weber's monopoly on the legitimate use of force. Yet the purpose of this essay is to explore an alternative view of security; long term economic prosperity of its people based on land sustainability. This essay identifies direct and indirect impacts from 30 years of war on Afghan ecology, as well as non-war-related impacts. Afghanistan is beset with multiple layered problems that have accumulated over decades and cannot be solved sequentially or independently. Success in military security without addressing environmental crisis may still result in a profoundly failed state. Most analyses of Afghanistan discuss the ecology of security, but this essay is about security of the ecology."

  Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Program for Culture and Conflict Studies

  De Joannis, Jeffrey

  2008-06-12?
• Climate Change: Comparison and Analysis of S. 1766 and S. 2191 (S. 3036) [June 4, 2008]

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  "Several proposals designed to address greenhouse gases have been introduced in the 110th Congress. Two proposals, S. 1766, introduced by Senators Bingaman and Specter, and S. 2191, introduced by Senators Lieberman and Warner and reported by the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works on May 20, 2008, are receiving increased scrutiny in preparation for Senate debate on S. 2191. On May 20, 2008, Senator Boxer introduced S. 3036, which is identical to the reported version of S. 2191 except that it contains a proposed budget amendment to make the bill deficit neutral. On June 2, 2008, the Senate invoked cloture on a motion to proceed on S. 3036, allowing discussion of the bill, but not allowing amendments to be introduced. As of June 4, 2008, it is unclear whether the Senate will agree on the motion to proceed, leading to further discussion and allowing amendments to be introduced. The two proposals -- S. 1766 and S. 2191 -- would establish market-based systems to limit emissions of greenhouse gases. However, the proposals differ in how those systems would work. S. 2191 would establish an absolute cap on emissions from covered entities and would allow entities to trade emissions under that cap. S. 1766 would establish emissions targets on covered entities and allow those entities to either meet emission reduction targets through a trading program or make a safety valve payment in lieu of reducing emissions. Under both proposals, short-term U.S. emissions would likely be below a business-as-usual scenario, although reductions under S. 2191 are guaranteed by the cap and are projected to be larger, particularly over the long-term. In contrast, costs under S. 1766 are likely to be lower and more predictable than under S. 2191. A major policy question is whether one is more concerned about the possible economic 'cost' of the program and therefore willing to accept some uncertainty about the amount of reduction received (i.e., favoring a 'safety valve' like S. 1766); or one is more concerned about achieving a specific 'emission reduction' level with costs handled efficiently, but not capped (i.e., pure tradeable permits as in S. 2191). S. 2191 leans toward the quantity (total emissions) side of the equation; S. 1766 leans toward the price side of the equation."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Parker, Larry, 1954-; Yacobucci, Brent D.

  2008-06-04
• Climate Change: Current Issues and Policy Tools [Updated June 3, 2008]

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  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. This action is 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. The economic stakes are potentially large - with both the costs of controls and the 'costs of inaction' ranging, by some estimates, into trillions of dollars over several decades." Part one focuses on current climate change issues. Part two discusses international and domestic policy fields. This report goes on to discuss the 'policy tool box' such as regulations, market mechanisms and cap-and-trade programs. This document concludes with an outlook on the choices ahead for policy-makers and links to further information.

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Leggett, Jane A.

  2008-06-03
• Statement of Administration Policy S. 3036 - Lieberman-Warner Climate Security Act (Sen. Boxer (D) CA) [June 2, 2008]

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  "The Administration believes that climate change is an important issue and is taking significant domestic and international actions to address it. As Congress debates this important issue, it must recognize that bad legislation would raise fuel prices and raise taxes on Americans without accomplishing the important goals the Administration shares. This debate should be guided by certain core principles and a clear appreciation that there is a right way and a wrong way to approach reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The right way is: to set realistic goals for reducing emissions consistent with advances in technology, while increasing our energy security and ensuring growth in our economy; to adopt policies that spur investment in new technologies needed to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions without unreasonable burdens on consumers and workers; to expand emission-free nuclear power generation and encourage the investments necessary to produce electricity from coal without releasing carbon into the air; to ensure that all major economies are bound to take action and to work cooperatively with our partners for a fair and effective international climate agreement; to lower trade barriers and create a global free market for clean energy technologies, making advanced technology more affordable and available in the developing world; and to prevent the misapplication of other environmental laws, such as the Clean Air Act, the Endangered Species Act and the National Environmental Policy Act, not designed to address greenhouse gases as part of any new GHG specific framework."

  United States. Office of Management and Budget

  Lieberman, Joseph I.; Boxer, Barbara; Warner, John

  2008-06-02
• Investigative Summary Regarding Allegations that NASA Suppressed Climate Change Science and Denied Media Access to Dr. James E. Hansen, a NASA Scientist

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  "On September 29, 2006, 14 United States Senators cosigned a letter to the NASA Inspector General to request a formal investigation into allegations of 'political interference' with the work of scientists at NASA. In particular, the letter conveyed the Senators' concern with apparent and 'repeated instances of scientists . . . having publication of their research and access to the media blocked, solely based upon their views and conclusions regarding the reality and impacts of global warming.' The letter also identified areas of specific concern coupled with a request for this Office 'to conduct a full and thorough investigation into the suppression of science and censorship of scientists at [NASA].' Accordingly, the NASA Office of Inspector General conducted an administrative investigation to examine reports of alleged 'political interference,' predominantly by senior NASA Headquarters Office of Public Affairs officials, with the work of NASA scientists pertaining to climate change-to include whether NASA inappropriately prevented one of its scientists, Dr. James E. Hansen, from speaking to the media in December 2005. Our investigation found that during the fall of 2004 through early 2006, the NASA Headquarters Office of Public Affairs managed the topic of climate change in a manner that reduced, marginalized, or mischaracterized climate change science made available to the general public through those particular media over which the Office of Public Affairs had control (i.e., news releases and media access)."

  United States. National Aeronautics and Space Administration. Office of the Inspector General

  Winters, Kevin H.

  2008-06-02
• Wildfire Damages to Homes and Resources: Understanding Causes and Reducing Losses [June 2, 2008]

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  This CRS report discusses the background surrounding wildfires causes and damage to houses and other structures and resources. From the Summary: "Wildfires are getting more severe, with more acres and houses burned and more people at risk. This results from excess biomass in the forests, due to past logging and grazing and a century of fire suppression, combined with an expanding wildland-urban interface -- more people and houses in and near the forests -- along with climate change, exacerbating drought and insect and disease problems. Some assert that current efforts to reduce biomass (fuel treatments, such as thinning) and to protect houses are inadequate, and that public objections to activities on federal lands raise costs and delay action. Others counter that proposals for federal lands allow timber harvesting, with substantial environmental damage and little fire protection. Congress is addressing these issues through various legislative proposals and through funding for protection programs." This report also includes one appendix.

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Gorte, Ross W.

  2008-06-02
• Preliminary Review of Adaptation Options for Climate-Sensitive Ecosystems and Resources

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  "This is part of a series of 21 SAPs produced by the CCSP aimed at providing current assessments of climate change science to inform public debate, policy, and operational decisions. These SAPs are also intended to help the CCSP develop future program research priorities. This SAP is issued pursuant to Section 106 of the Global Change Research Act of 1990 (Public Law 101-606). The CCSP's guiding vision is to provide the Nation and the global community with the science-based knowledge needed to manage the risks and capture the opportunities associated with climate and related environmental changes. The SAPs are important steps toward achieving that vision and help to translate the CCSP's extensive observational and research database into informational tools that directly address key questions being asked of the research community. This SAP focuses on adaptation options for climate-sensitive ecosystems and resources on Federally owned and managed lands. It was developed with broad scientific input and in accordance with the Guidelines for Producing CCSP SAPs, the Federal Advisory Committee Act, the Information Quality Act, Section 515 of the Treasury and General Government Appropriations Act for fiscal year 2001 (Public Law 106-554), and the guidelines issued by the Environmental Protection Agency pursuant to Section 515."

  Climate Change Science Program (U.S.)

  Julius, Susan Herrod; West, Jordan M.; Baron, Jill S.

  2008-06
• Business Guide to U.S. EPA Climate Partnership Programs [June 2008]

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  This United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) report outlines partnership programs for businesses by industry. "EPA Partnership Programs offer participating companies a wide variety of valuable services and resources to reduce GHGs. By joining an EPA Partnership Program, a business frequently gains access not just to EPA resources and services but often those of many other organizations. EPA is one of the few environmental bodies with national reach. EPA regional offices, laboratories, grantees, and consultants routinely participate in EPA Partnership Programs targeting the business community. Through these programs, EPA has forged thousands of collaborative partnerships with advocacy organizations, research organizations, community groups, business associations, professional associations, utilities, universities, schools, and state and local governments. EPA Partnership Programs offer partners a wide variety of valuable services and resources to reduce GHG emissions. Most programs offer technical assistance, professional networking, and public recognition. Many offer financial and environmental analysis tools, training, seminars, guidebooks, toolkits, and environmental performance bench marking. Others help businesses identify potential buyers and sellers of environmentally superior products and connect them to environmental financing opportunities. EPA is also one of the few U.S. bodies with environmental regulatory powers at the federal level. As more and more states adopt new and mandatory climate policies and as climate policy continues to evolve at the federal level, EPA is in a unique position to help business partners prepare for these changes."

  National Center for Environmental Innovation (U.S.)

  United States Environmental Protection Agency. National Center for Environmental Innovation

  2008-06
• Weather and Climate Extremes in a Changing Climate: Regions of Focus: North America, Hawaii, Caribbean, and U.S. Pacific Islands

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  "This is part of a series of 21 SAPs produced by the CCSP aimed at providing current assessments of climate change science to inform public debate, policy, and operational decisions. These reports are also intended to help the CCSP develop future program research priorities. The CCSP's guiding vision is to provide the Nation and the global community with the science-based knowledge needed to manage the risks and capture the opportunities associated with climate and related environmental changes. The SAPs are important steps toward achieving that vision and help to translate the CCSP's extensive observational and research database into informational tools that directly address key questions being asked of the research community. This SAP assesses the state of our knowledge concerning changes in weather and climate extremes in North America and U.S. territories. It was developed with broad scientific input and in accordance with the Guidelines for Producing CCSP SAPs, the Federal Advisory Committee Act, the Information Quality Act, Section 515 of the Treasury and General Government Appropriations Act for fiscal year 2001 (Public Law 106-554), and the guidelines issued by the Department of Commerce and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration pursuant to Section 515."

  Climate Change Science Program (U.S.)

  Meehl, Gerald A.; Karl, Thomas R.; Miller, Christopher D.

  2008-06
• Climate Change: Comparison of S.2191 as Reported (now S. 3036) with Proposed Boxer Amendment [May 30, 2008]

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  "On December 7, 2007, the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee ordered reported an amended version of S. 2191, the Lieberman-Warner Climate Security Act of 2008 (originally entitled America's Climate Security Act of 2007). On April 10, 2008, an amendment to make the bill revenue-neutral was submitted to CBO for analysis along with the committee version of S. 2191. On May 20, 2008, S. 2191 was reported by EPW. At the same time, Senator Boxer introduced S. 3036, which is identical to the reported version of S. 2191 except that it contains the proposed budget amendment. Both bills were placed on the Senate legislative calendar. On Thursday, May 22, Senator Reid filed for cloture on the motion to proceed on S. 3036. The cloture vote is scheduled for Monday, June 2 at 5:30 pm, with the preceding hour set for debate. In addition to S. 3036, Senator Boxer has proposed an amendment in the nature of a substitute, with significant changes from the committee version of S. 2191. This report provides a comparison of five key differences between S. 2191/S. 3036 and the proposed Boxer Amendment. This report supersedes a CRS [Congressional Research Service] Congressional Distribution Memorandum entitled 'Comparison of S. 2191 as Reported (now S. 3036) with Proposed Boxer Substitute,' dated May 28, 2008."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Yacobucci, Brent D.; Parker, Larry, 1954-

  2008-05-30
• Congressional Budget Office Cost Estimate: H.R. 5770: A bill to provide for a study by the National Academy of Sciences of potential impacts of climate change on water resources and water quality

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  "H.R. 5770 would authorize the appropriation of $1.5 million for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to enter into an agreement with the National Academy of Sciences to prepare a study on the potential effects of climate change on water resources and quality. The bill would require the EPA to submit the study to the Congress within two years of enactment. CBO estimates that implementing this bill would cost $1.5 million over the 2009-2010 period. H.R. 5770 contains no intergovernmental or private-sector mandates as defined in the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act and would not affect the budgets of state, local, or tribal governments."

  United States. Congressional Budget Office

  2008-05-22
• Congressional Research Service Memorandum: The Global Competitive Environment, Drivers of Change, and Potential Implications for Federal Policy [May 21, 2008]

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  "This memorandum is in response to your request for information on the influences that are reshaping the global competitive environment and potential implications for U.S. policy. Congress has maintained continuing interest in the nation's competitiveness due to its implications for U.S. economic growth, job creation, standard of living, quality of life, and national security. Technology and innovation have been central themes in discussions about competitiveness, along with key factors such as the U.S. workforce (e.g., education and training, with an emphasis on developing scientists and engineers), business climate (e.g. economic, trade, tax, tort, regulatory, and intellectual property policies), and infrastructure (e.g., roads, bridges, ports, airports, energy generation and transmission, telecommunications, national research facilities and equipment). Many analysts have observed that a variety of powerful influences have converged during the past two decades to reshape the global business environment. Underpinned by advances in information and communications technology, market-based economic reforms, and free trade agreements, globalization and the integration of the world's national economies have accelerated. Historically, the interests of private enterprises, universities, individuals, and other institutions were strongly aligned with the nations in which they resided. Global drivers of change appear to have partially decoupled the interests of nations and some of the institutions that reside within. This memorandum is focused on addressing selected influences driving changes in the global competitive environment; how these influences have shaped, and may continue to shape, the global competitive environment; and some of the potential implications for federal policy."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Sargent, John F.

  2008-05-21
• Climate Change: Current Issues and Policy Tools [May 21, 2008]

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  "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 domestic policy attention has focused on "cap and trade" strategies to reduce 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 characterizing and supporting adaptations to expected future changes, as well as to strategies to gain effective international engagement in reducing GHG. One significant obstacle to consensus is concern about the potential costs of abating GHG emissions, since deep reductions would require extraordinary changes in energy use and technologies. Recent studies suggest that efficiently designed GHG programs could moderate the costs of reducing U.S. GHG emissions; technically and politically, though, an "efficiently designed" program may not be realistic. 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.

  2008-05-21
• S. Rept. 110-337: America's Climate Security Act of 2007, Report together with Minority Views to Accompany S. 2191, May 20, 2008

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  "The Committee on Environment and Public Works, to which was referred a bill (S. 2191) to direct the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to establish a program to decrease emissions of greenhouse gases, and for other purposes, having considered the same, reports favorably thereon with an amendment, and recommends that the bill, as amended, do pass. The past 20 years have seen a concerted global effort to grapple with the challenge of climate change, an effort that began with the creation of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) to investigate and report on climate science. That period has also been marked by the U.S. ratification and international entry into force in 1994 of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the entry into force in 2005 of the Kyoto Protocol for the reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. During the mid-1990's the United States played a leading role in the formulation and negotiation of the Kyoto Protocol and its implementing rules, lending the lessons of its experience under domestic environmental laws like the Clean Air Act to the process of crafting the GHG emissions reduction program embodied in the Kyoto Protocol. In recent years, the U.S. role in the international process receded. Domestic climate policies have been modest at best."

  United States. Government Printing Office

  2008-05-20
• Climate Change: Costs and Benefits of S. 2191 [May 15, 2008]

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  "This report examines six studies that project the costs of S. 2191 to 2030 or 2050. It is difficult (and some would consider it unwise) to project costs up to the year 2030, much less beyond. The already tenuous assumption that current regulatory standards will remain constant becomes more unrealistic, and other unforeseen events (such as technological breakthroughs) loom as critical issues which cannot be modeled. 'Long-term cost projections are at best speculative, and should be viewed with attentive skepticism.' Despite models' inability to predict the future, cases examined here do provide insights on the costs and benefits of S. 2191."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Parker, Larry, 1954-; Yacobucci, Brent D.

  2008-05-15
• Global Climate Change and Wildlife [Updated May 15, 2008]

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  From the Summary: "Recently projected climate changes could have widespread effects on wildlife species. These effects might be positive or negative, depending on the species. Some effects might include extinction, range shifts, mismatches in phenology (timing of pollination, flowering, etc.), and population changes. Effects of climate change on wildlife have been reported for some species and populations in localized areas. Many scientists contend that climate change acts in concert with other variables (such as habitat) to affect species. If the effects of climate change are widespread, there is uncertainty on how wildlife will adapt. Some suggest that evolution and migration will enable species to adapt, whereas others contend that adaptation will be minimal because of limited habitat, and changes in climate that may occur more rapidly than adaptation can respond."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Sheikh, Pervaze A.; Corn, M. Lynne (Mary Lynne), 1946-; Leggett, Jane A. . . .

  2008-05-15
• Klepsudra: How the Rio Grande Treaty Increased Instability in Mexico

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  "In the late 19th century, the United States Congress recognized that water was the essential element for bringing the 'arid west' into productive use and building the nation's power. For the last 100-years the United States has successfully maintained a massive water management and reclamation scheme in the western states. Central to this is a 1944 treaty with Mexico which stipulates water allocations and rights between the two countries. The treaty produced an enduring American advantage in terms of maintaining a water status quo with Mexico. Despite paying large dividends for American interests, the treaty now produces considerable tensions between the two countries and contributes towards increased instability in Mexico. This paper shows how the United States used the treaty to protect domestic interests while hindering sustainable development on the Mexican side of the border. In today's environment this situation is counter-productive for regional security. This paper addresses the consequences of our adherence to the treaty, potential impacts from climate change, poor infrastructure investments in Mexico, population growth, the North American Free Trade Agreement and implications for future policy considerations related to Mexico and its internal stability."

  Army War College (U.S.)

  Anspach, Mark A.

  2008-05-09
• Climate Change: The Role of the U.S. Agriculture Sector [May 5, 2008]

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  "The agriculture sector is a source of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, which many scientists agree are contributing to observed climate change. Agriculture is also a 'sink' for sequestering carbon, which might offset GHG emissions by capturing and storing carbon in agricultural soils. The two key types of GHG emissions associated with agricultural activities are methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O). Agricultural sources of CH4 emissions mostly occur as part of the natural digestive process of animals and manure management at livestock operations; sources of N2O emissions are associated with soil management and fertilizer use on croplands. This report describes these emissions on a carbon-equivalent basis to illustrate agriculture's contribution to total national GHG emissions and to contrast emissions against estimates of sequestered carbon. […] The 110th Congress is considering a range of climate change policy options, including mandatory GHG emission reduction programs. The current legislative proposals would not require emission reductions in the agriculture and forestry sectors. However, some of the GHG emission reduction programs would allow the agriculture and forestry sectors to generate carbon offsets, whereby participating farmers and landowners could generate (and sell) carbon offsets and credits associated with carbon capture and storage, emissions reductions, and/or other implemented environmental improvements. Also, as part of the pending omnibus farm bill debate, there are provisions in the House and Senate versions of the bill (H.R. 2419) that could expand the scope of existing farmland conservation programs that contribute to emissions reductions and carbon storage in agricultural activities."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Johnson, Renée

  2008-05-05
• Letter to Mary L. Landrieu, Lamar Alesander, Debbie Wasserman Schultz, and Tom Latham from Terrell Dorn, Director, Physical Infrastructure Issues and Frank Rusco, Director, National Resources and Environment Regarding Economic and Other Implications of Switching from Coal to Natural Gas at the Capitol Power Plant and at Electricity-Generating Units Nationwide, May 1, 2008

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  "Elevated concentrations of greenhouse gases--carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, and several synthetic chemicals--in the atmosphere resulting from the combustion of fossil fuels and other sources have the potential to cause significant changes in the earth's climate. These potential impacts include shifts in sea level and weather patterns and could pose threats to coastal and other infrastructure. Concerns about the potential impacts of climate change have led the Congress to consider legislation that would place binding, nationwide limits on greenhouse gas emissions, and the House of Representatives' leadership has initiated efforts to decrease emissions attributable to its operations. Nearly all of the greenhouse gas emissions from House operations consist of carbon dioxide and are associated with electricity purchased from utilities and the combustion of fossil fuels in the Capitol Power Plant (CPP), which provides steam and chilled water for heating and cooling the Capitol building and 23 surrounding facilities. The Architect of the Capitol (AOC) operates CPP. In June 2007, the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) of the House of Representatives released the Green the Capitol initiative (the initiative) at the direction of the Speaker and the Majority Leader. Among other goals, the initiative calls for the House of Representatives to operate in a carbon-neutral manner by the end of the 110th Congress (December 2008). Carbon-neutral, as defined in the initiative, means that operations produce no net contribution to greenhouse gas emissions. The initiative outlines several strategies to achieve the goal of carbon neutrality, including operating CPP with natural gas instead of coal to meet the needs of the House."

  United States. Government Accountability Office

  Dorn, Terrell G.; Rusco, Frank

  2008-05-01
• Effects of Climate Change on Agriculture, Land Resources, Water Resources, and Biodiversity in the United States

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  "This report is an assessment of the effects of climate change on U.S. land resources, water resources, agriculture, and biodiversity. It is one of a series of 21 Synthesis and Assessment Products being produced under the auspices of the U.S. Climate Change Science Program (CCSP), which coordinates the climate change research activities of U.S. government agencies. The lead sponsor of this particular assessment product is the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). The project was led and coordinated by the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR). This assessment is based on extensive review of the relevant scientific literature and measurements and data collected and published by U.S. government agencies. The team of authors includes experts in the fields of agriculture, biodiversity, and land and water resources-scientists and researchers from universities, national laboratories, non-government organizations, and government agencies. To generate this assessment of the effects of climate and climate change, the authors conducted an exhaustive review, analysis, and synthesis of the scientific literature, considering more than 1,000 separate publications."

  United States. Environmental Protection Agency

  Backlund, Peter; Schimel, David; Janetos, Anthony C.

  2008-05
• 20% Wind Energy by 2030: Increasing Wind Energy's Contribution to U.S. Electricity Supply

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  "Energy prices, supply uncertainties, and environmental concerns are driving the United States to rethink its energy mix and develop diverse sources of clean, renewable energy. The nation is working toward generating more energy from domestic resources-energy that can be cost-effective, and replaced or 'renewed' without contributing to climate change or major adverse environmental impacts. In 2006, President Bush emphasized the nation's need for greater energy efficiency and a more diversified energy portfolio. This led to a collaborative effort to explore a modeled energy scenario in which wind provides 20% of U.S. electricity by 2030. Members of this 20% wind collaborative (see 20% Wind Scenario sidebar) produced this report to start the discussion about issues, costs, and potential outcomes associated with the 20% Wind Scenario. A 20% Wind Scenario in 2030, while ambitious could be feasible if the significant challenges identified in this report are overcome. This report was prepared by DOE in a joint effort with industry, government, and the Nation's national laboratories (primarily the National Renewable Energy Laboratory and Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory). The report considers some associated challenges, estimates the impacts and considers specific needs and outcomes in the areas of technology, manufacturing and employment, transmission and grid integration, markets, siting strategies, and potential environmental effects associated with a 20% Wind Scenario."

  United States. Department of Energy

  2008-05
• Scientific Assessment of the Effects of Global Change on the United States

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  "The climate is changing, and these changes are affecting the world around us. In order to deal with the changes that are taking place now and to prepare for those that are likely to happen in the future, decisionmakers need information about global change and its effects on the Nation and the world we live in. This national scientific assessment integrates, evaluates, and interprets the findings of the U.S. Climate Change Science Program (CCSP) and draws from and synthesizes findings from previous assessments of the science, including reports and products by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). It analyzes current trends in global change, both natural and human-induced, and it projects major trends for the future. It analyzes the effects of these changes on the natural environment, agriculture, water resources, social systems, energy production and use, transportation, and human health. It is intended to help inform discussion of the relevant issues by decisionmakers, stakeholders, and the public. As such, this report addresses the requirements for assessment in the Global Change Research Act of 1990. This assessment addresses not only climate change, but also other change in the global environment-including water resources, oceans, atmospheric chemistry, land productivity, and ecological systems-that may alter the capacity of Earth to sustain life. This broader set of changes is referred to as 'global change,' as defined in the Global Change Research Act."

  National Science and Technology Council (U.S.)

  2008-05
• Polar Bears: Proposed Listing Under the Endangered Species Act [Updated April 30, 2008]

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  From the Summary: "The proposed listing of polar bears as threatened under the Endangered Species Act (ESA; 16 U.S.C. [United States Code] §§1531 et seq.) highlights the intersection of two significant issues currently before Congress -- climate change and species protection. According to the ESA, this listing decision rests solely on an interpretation of the best available scientific understanding of the species and how it may be affected by changes in its habitat. Polar bears depend on Arctic sea ice, which most scientists acknowledge will be affected by climate warming causing, at minimum, an earlier annual or seasonal thaw and a later freeze of coastal sea ice. Globally, less than one-third of the 19 known or recognized polar bear populations are declining, more than one-third are increasing or stable. The remaining third have insufficient data available to estimate population trends and their status has not been assessed. Two polar bear populations occur within U.S. jurisdiction. […] Controversy exists over how great a threat the changing climate might be to polar bears and whether they might be able to adapt to these changing conditions. Some point out that polar bears today are not coping with changing climate alone, but also face a host of other human-induced factors -- including shipping, oil and gas exploration, contaminants, and reduced prey populations -- that compound the threat to their continued existence. There is also considerable uncertainty in estimates of polar bear population numbers and trends as well as in our understanding of polar bear habitat."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Buck, Eugene H.

  2008-04-30
• Fuel Ethanol: Background and Public Policy Issues [Updated April 24, 2008]

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  "Ethanol plays a key role in policy discussions about energy, agriculture, taxes, and the environment. In the United States it is mostly made from corn; in other countries it is often made from cane sugar. Fuel ethanol is generally blended in gasoline to reduce emissions, increase octane, and extend gasoline stocks. Recent high oil and gasoline prices have led to increased interest in alternatives to petroleum fuels for transportation. Further, concerns over climate change have raised interest in developing fuels with lower fuel-cycle greenhouse-gas emissions. Supporters of ethanol argue that its use can lead to lower emissions of toxic and ozone-forming pollutants, and greenhouse gases, especially if higher-level blends are used. They further argue that ethanol use displaces petroleum imports, thus promoting energy security. Ethanol's detractors argue that various federal and state policies supporting ethanol distort the market and amount to corporate welfare for corn growers and ethanol producers. Further, they argue that the energy and chemical inputs needed to turn corn into ethanol actually increase emissions and energy consumption, although most recent studies have found modest energy and emissions benefits from ethanol use relative to gasoline, depending on how the ethanol is produced. The market for fuel ethanol is heavily dependent on federal incentives and regulations. Ethanol production is encouraged by a federal tax credit of 51 cents per gallon. This incentive allows ethanol -- which has historically been more expensive than conventional gasoline -- to compete with gasoline and other blending components."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Yacobucci, Brent D.

  2008-04-24
• 2008-2009 Presidential Transition: National Security Considerations and Options [April 21, 2008]

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  "A presidential transition is a unique time in America and holds the promise of opportunity, as well as a possible risk to the nation's security interests. The 2008- 2009 election marks the first presidential transition in the post-9/11 era, and is of concern to many national security observers. While changes in administration during U.S. involvement in national security related activities are not unique to the 2008- 2009 election, many observers suggest that the current security climate and recent acts of terrorism by individuals wishing to influence national elections and change foreign policies portend a time of increased risk to the current presidential transition period. [...] How the new President recognizes and responds to these challenges will depend heavily on the planning and learning that occurs prior to the inauguration. Actions can be taken by the outgoing President and President-elect that may ameliorate decisionmaking activities in the new administration. Whether an incident of national security significance occurs just before or soon after the presidential transition, the actions or inactions of the outgoing Administration may have a long-lasting effect on the new President's ability to effectively safeguard U.S. interests and may affect the legacy of the outgoing President. This report discusses historical national-security related presidential transition activities, provides a representative sampling of national security issues the next administration may encounter, and offers considerations and options relevant to each of the five phases of the presidential transition period. Each phase has distinct challenges and opportunities for the incoming administration, the outgoing administration, and Congress."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Rollins, John

  2008-04-21
• Iranian Refining Crisis: The Argument for Strategic Patience in Relations with the Islamic Republic of Iran

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  From the thesis abstract: "The refining industry in Iran is facing a crisis caused by a growing shortfall in production capacity for gasoline and other light fuels to meet rapidly growing domestic demand. The industry is locked into a repetitive cycle of decline due to under investment in new facilities and total capacity, massive government energy and automotive subsidies that encourage continued growth in demand, and a poor investment climate that discourages badly needed foreign investment in the refining industry. The shortfall in refining capacity causes the government to import fuel, the costs of which are growing beyond the government's ability to control. This refining crisis creates an opportunity for the United States and its allies to exercise strategic patience in trying to influence the Iranian government's behavior in a direction more favorable to our interests. The Iranian government has demonstrated an ability to act pragmatically in order to stave off economic dislocation in the past. It is reasonable to assume they will do so again in response to the economic threat posed by the refining crisis. While a policy of strategic patience carries risk, the available evidence demonstrates that the current program of sanctions and economic pressure are likely to force a favorable change in Iranian behavior. "

  U.S. Army Command and General Staff College. School of Advanced Military Studies

  Selburg, Allan M.

  2008-04-16
• Fact Sheet: Taking Additional Action to Confront Climate Change

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  This fact sheet outlines a new (April 2008) national goal to stop the growth in U.S. greenhouse gas emissions by 2025. "This new goal marks a major step forward in America's ongoing efforts to address climate change. If we fully implement our strong new laws, adhere to the principles the President outlined, and adopt appropriate incentives, we will put the United States on an ambitious new track for greenhouse gas reductions. The growth in emissions will slow over the next decade, stop by 2025, and begin to reverse thereafter, so long as technology continues to advance. Taken together, these landmark actions will prevent billions of metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions from entering the atmosphere."

  United States. White House Office

  2008-04-16
• Inventory of U.S. Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Sinks: 1990-2006

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  This EPA national greenhouse gas inventory finds that overall emissions during 2006 decreased by 1.1 percent from the previous year. The report is the latest in an annual set of reports that the United States submits to the Secretariat of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, which sets an overall framework for intergovernmental efforts to tackle the challenge posed by climate change. "In 2006, total U.S. greenhouse gas emissions were 7,054.2 Tg CO2 Eq. Overall, total U.S. emissions have risen by 14.7 percent from 1990 to 2006, while the U.S. gross domestic product has increased by 59 percent over the same period (BEA 2007). Emissions fell from 2005 to 2006, decreasing by 1.1 percent (75.7 Tg CO2 Eq.). The following factors were primary contributors to this decrease: (1) compared to 2005, 2006 had warmer winter conditions, which decreased consumption of heating fuels, as well as cooler summer conditions, which reduced demand for electricity, (2) restraint on fuel consumption caused by rising fuel prices, primarily in the transportation sector and (3) increased use of natural gas and renewables in the electric power sector. Figure ES-1 through Figure ES-3 illustrate the overall trends in total U.S. emissions by gas, annual changes, and absolute change since 1990. Table ES-2 provides a detailed summary of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions and sinks for 1990 through 2006."

  United States. Environmental Protection Agency

  2008-04-15
• Climate Change Litigation: A Growing Phenomenon [Updated April 7, 2008]

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  "The scientific, economic, and political questions surrounding climate change have long been with us. This report focuses instead on a relative newcomer: the legal debate. Though the first court decision related to climate change appeared 18 years ago, such litigation has proliferated in just the past five. The court cases, decided and pending, arise in seven contexts. The first is the Clean Air Act (CAA). In April, 2007, the Supreme Court held in Massachusetts v. EPA that at least as to mobile sources of emissions (cars, trucks), EPA has authority under the CAA to regulate greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. This decision puts pressure on EPA to move forward as well with regulation of GHGs from stationary sources (powerplants, factories). Second, litigation under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, and current and likely litigation under the Endangered Species Act, raise the possibility that the impacts of climate change on wildlife may constrain government and private activities associated with GHG emissions. Third, what about federal energy statutes? A much-publicized decision held that under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act, the United States must monetize the benefits of reduced carbon emissions as part of setting light-truck fuel economy standards. The Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act also has been invoked. Fourth, various statutes requiring federal government analysis and information dissemination -- the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), Global Change Research Act, and Freedom of Information Act -- have generated climate-change litigation. NEPA suits make up the most numerous category of climate-change litigation."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Meltz, Robert

  2008-04-07
• Selected Issues Related to an Expansion of the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) [Updated March 31, 2008]

  Show summary     Open resource [pdf]     (open full abstract)

  "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 nearly half of all U.S. gasoline (at the 10% level or lower in most cases). However, current biofuel supply only represents about 4% of total gasoline demand. Issues facing the U.S. biofuels industry include potential agricultural 'feedstock' supplies, the associated market and environmental effects of a major shift in U.S. agricultural production; the energy supply needed to grow feedstocks and process them into fuel, and barriers to expanded infrastructure needed to deliver more and more biofuels to the market. A key question is whether a renewable fuel mandate is the most effective policy to promote the above goals. This report outlines some of the current supply issues facing biofuels industries, including implications for agricultural feedstocks, infrastructure concerns, energy supply for biofuel production, and fuel price uncertainties."

  Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

  Yacobucci, Brent D.

  2008-03-31