America's Climate Choices

America's Climate Choices
Title	America's Climate Choices
Author	National Research Council
Publisher	The National Academies Press
Country	United States
Language	English
Release date	2011
Pages	118
Isbn	978-0-309-14585-5

America's Climate Choices. This landmark report was produced by the National Research Council at the request of the United States Congress to provide authoritative guidance on responding to climate change. It synthesizes findings from a series of prior studies by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine to outline a cohesive national strategy. The report emphasizes the urgent need for action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to impacts, framing climate change as a core challenge for U.S. national policy.

Background and context

The genesis of the report lies in a 2008 congressional mandate, leading the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to commission the National Academies. This effort built upon foundational work like the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change assessments and earlier U.S. studies such as the U.S. Global Change Research Program's synthesis. The project was overseen by a high-level committee chaired by notable figures like Albert Carnesale of UCLA and included experts from institutions like the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and the Brookings Institution. Its creation occurred amidst significant political debates during the administrations of President George W. Bush and President Barack Obama, reflecting a pivotal moment in American environmental policy.

Key findings and recommendations

The committee concluded that the United States should mobilize a concerted response to climate change, initiating emissions reductions promptly. Core recommendations included establishing a carbon-pricing system, significantly investing in energy efficiency and low-carbon technologies like nuclear power and renewable energy, and strengthening international climate agreements. It argued for a flexible, adaptive approach that evolves with scientific understanding, integrating both mitigation and adaptation strategies. The report specifically advised the Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Energy to play leading roles in implementing these actions.

Scientific and technical analysis

The analysis was grounded in robust assessments from the National Academy of Sciences, confirming that human activities, primarily from burning fossil fuels, are driving global warming. It detailed observed changes in the Arctic, rising sea levels affecting coasts from Florida to California, and increasing frequency of extreme weather events. Technical pathways for decarbonization were evaluated, including advancements in carbon capture and storage, the electric grid, and biofuels. The report relied on data from agencies like NASA and the National Science Foundation, presenting a clear risk assessment for ecosystems and infrastructure.

Policy and governance implications

The report called for a coherent national framework that could transcend partisan divisions, suggesting roles for both federal entities like the Congress and White House, and state initiatives such as the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative. It discussed the legal authority of the Clean Air Act and the potential for new legislation from Capitol Hill. Governance challenges included coordinating actions across agencies like the Department of Transportation and the Department of Defense, and aligning U.S. policies with global efforts under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.

Public engagement and communication

Effective communication was deemed vital for building societal support. The report advised leaders, from the President of the United States to local officials, to clearly convey the science and risks. It recommended leveraging diverse channels, including collaborations with organizations like the American Association for the Advancement of Science and media partners such as The New York Times. Engaging the public on topics like energy conservation and preparing for impacts like Hurricane Katrina-scale events was seen as essential for fostering informed decision-making and behavioral change.

Implementation and challenges

Successful implementation faces hurdles including political polarization, economic concerns about industries in regions like Texas and West Virginia, and the scale of required investment. The report noted the need for continuous monitoring by bodies like the Government Accountability Office and adaptation of strategies based on new science from institutions like Scripps Institution of Oceanography. Long-term challenges involve maintaining momentum across presidential administrations, ensuring energy security, and upholding U.S. leadership in forums like the G20 and with partners like the European Union.

Category:Climate change policy in the United States Category:National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine reports Category:2011 documents