Climate change is a global challenge that requires global solutions. Efforts like the Paris Agreement strengthen confidence that all countries are doing their share, helping each country do even more.
More than 190 nations meeting in Paris in December 2015 reached a landmark agreement to strengthen the global climate effort. The Paris Agreement commits countries to undertake “nationally determined contributions” and establishes mechanisms to hold them accountable and to strengthen …
To meet the climate challenge, the United States needs a comprehensive national approach. Well-designed federal policy can cut emissions and strengthen resilience while driving economic growth.
There are various market-based approaches to pricing carbon (e.g. carbon tax, cap and trade, and a clean energy standard). All of these can reduce emissions cost-effectively while driving clean energy innovation. This factsheet compares eleven carbon tax and cap-and-dividend proposals …
In the absence of stronger federal leadership, many states are enacting their own climate goals and policies. They serve as laboratories, demonstrating what's effective and informing national policy.
A greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions target is a state-level goal to reduce emissions by a specific amount by a pre-determined date. The targets can cover all greenhouse gas emissions or specific gases (e.g., carbon dioxide only). The targets can be …
As centers of population and energy use, cities generate a majority of our climate emissions. Local governments play a critical role in reducing emissions and in making communities resilient to climate change.
As part of the Alliance’s ongoing work plan to promote sustainability and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, mayors across the country were asked about their city’s efforts in the areas of low-carbon transportation, energy efficiency in new and existing buildings, and …
Cities across the country are increasingly interested in partnerships to advance energy efficiency, renewable energy sources, and low-carbon mobility. Collaborative partnerships between cities and utilities serve as opportunities to advance these goals and can lay the foundation for clean energy …
A growing number of jurisdictions are adopting market-based climate policies. By putting a price on carbon, these policies give businesses the incentive to innovate so they can cut emissions at the lowest possible cost.
Climate change poses a significant risk for a broad range of human and natural systems. Policies to reduce emissions are critical if we are to avoid the most costly damages associated with a rapidly changing climate. Compared to traditional command-and-control …