Topic: us policy

In deciphering U.S. climate policy, it is important to understand the limitations of the president’s powers and the distinct processes that all legislation follows in the two chambers of the United States Congress.

This summary provides a concise overview of the Chairman’s Mark of the Clean Energy Jobs and American Power Act (CEJAPA), released by Senator Boxer on October 23, 2009.

New analysis compares emissions reductions in the current Kerry-Boxer and Waxman-Markey bills.

Jonathan Lash, president of the World Resources Institute (WRI), is testifying today before the Senate’s Environment and Public Works Committee regarding action of other countries to address climate change and the implications of their action for the United States.

Some important messages from his testimony:

The [Clean Energy Jobs and American Power Act of 2009][act-link] (CEJAPA) provides a number of provisions that facilitate the demonstration and deployment of carbon dioxide capture and storage (CCS) technologies. This document provides a brief overview of the most important of these. Coal use is responsible for over 40 percent of global carbon dioxide emissions[^1], and significant, deliberate action will be required to reduce these emissions. The CEJAPA lays a foundation for moving CCS technology to scale by reducing costs and providing funding for demonstrations.

As December’s climate change talks approach, a new WRI report discusses the successes and challenges to effective regulation in China.

 

WHAT:

The World Resources Institute (WRI), the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) and clean technology companies will host a Senate briefing for lawmakers, staff, and journalists Tuesday, October 6, 2009. Companies representing the emerging clean energy industry in the Southeast United States will share their perspectives on jobs and economic growth in clean energy. They will also express how energy and climate legislation affects small and medium-sized businesses and how such policy action can support a competitive Southeast economy.

WRI Senior Associate John Larsen answers questions about recent emissions reductions and what they mean for climate legislation.