Here are some recent developments related to climate change:
Funding Challenges for Agricultural Climate Research
Publicly funded agricultural research in the U.S. is facing significant cuts, jeopardizing efforts to develop climate-resilient crops and farming practices. Erin McGuire’s lab at UC-Davis, which focused on drought-resistant crops, was shut down due to funding reductions, leading to layoffs and stalled research. Since 2002, U.S. investment in agricultural research has decreased by about $2 billion, while countries like China have increased their funding. This funding gap hampers innovation and threatens food security.
Environmental Groups Express Concern Over EPA Cuts
Donald Trump’s push to reconstitute the EPA through funding cuts and staffing reductions threatens decades of environmental progress, particularly the cleanup of the Hudson River. Riverkeeper, a non-profit environmental organization founded by RFK Jr., has expressed deep concern over the termination of $14 billion in grants and the elimination of 1,155 positions in the EPA’s research department. These cuts could hinder essential environmental research needed to address climate change impacts.
UK Achieves Notable Carbon Emission Reductions
In 2024, the UK’s carbon emissions decreased by 4%, reaching 371 million tonnes of carbon equivalent, a 54% reduction from 1990 levels. Key factors include reduced gas and coal usage, the closure of the last coal-fired power station, expansion of renewable energy, and increased electricity imports. However, transport remained the largest emissions source, accounting for 30% of the total, despite a 2% decrease due to reduced diesel car use.
Global Disparities in Climate Change Litigation
In Europe, companies can face litigation for not taking sufficient action against climate change, as exemplified by ING being sued by a Dutch environmental group. In contrast, the U.S. legal landscape often involves lawsuits against entities for focusing too heavily on climate commitments. This divergence creates challenges for companies operating internationally, necessitating careful navigation of varying legal expectations.
Antarctic Heatwave Raises Climate Concerns
A heatwave struck Antarctica in July 2024, with temperatures reaching up to 10°C above average during the winter months. This anomaly led to reduced sea ice and has raised alarms among climate scientists about the accelerating impacts of global warming on polar regions.