climate causes
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GOP speakers criticize Biden's energy policies at convention
Several Republican National Convention speakers blamed President Biden's policies for rising gas and electricity prices, but experts attribute the increases to global market forces and other complex factors.
Brad Plumer and Lisa Friedman report for The New York Times.
In short:
- Republicans claimed Biden's policies increased gas and electricity prices.
- Experts say global market forces and events like Russia's invasion of Ukraine influenced these price hikes more than Biden's policies.
- Former President Trump promised more domestic drilling, but experts argue other factors affect energy prices.
Key quote:
“The bulk of electricity price spikes are the result of ‘increasing cost and volatility of fossil fuels’ and extreme weather events like wildfires.”
— Brendan Pierpont, director of electricity modeling at Energy Innovation
Why this matters:
Misleading narratives can cloud public understanding and influence policymakers. For instance, blaming renewable energy for all price increases overlooks the benefits of reducing reliance on fossil fuels and the long-term savings from sustainable energy investments. Conversely, ignoring the costs associated with maintaining and upgrading the grid to accommodate renewables can lead to unrealistic expectations and frustration.
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The US defends its oil and gas expansion despite climate finance promises
The Biden administration promises to lead global climate finance efforts, yet faces criticism for expanding oil and gas production amid its climate goals.
In short:
- The US promises to lead in climate finance but does not specify the amount to be provided to poorer countries.
- John Podesta, Biden’s top climate official, supports the expansion of US oil and gas production due to the high demand for non-Russian energy sources.
- Podesta highlights the stark contrast between Biden and Trump on climate commitments and the need for other major economies to contribute more.
Key quote:
"The US is now the number one producer of oil and gas in the world, the number one exporter of natural gas, and that’s a good thing."
— John Podesta, senior adviser to Joe Biden on international climate policy
Why this matters:
The U.S. continues to expand its fossil fuel infrastructure. New oil and gas projects, including pipelines and drilling operations, are moving forward, driven by economic interests and energy security concerns. This expansion poses a significant challenge to meeting climate targets, as fossil fuels remain the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions.
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Photo by Zbynek Burival on Unsplash
4 oil and gas issues to watch in 2024
U.S. crude and natural gas production reached all-time record highs last year, putting President Joe Biden in a tricky political spot as the 2024 presidential campaign heats up and casting doubt on the industry’s ability to cut emissions.
Newsletter
Photo by SELİM ARDA ERYILMAZ on Unsplash
Gas pipeline expansion could fuel Pacific north-west climate emergencies
Construction could start before the new year on a gas pipeline expansion through the Pacific north-west that state officials say will undermine the region’s renewable transition and further fuel climate emergencies.
Newsletter
Photo by Brad Weaver on Unsplash
As the planet heats up, big companies balk on their climate pledges
At a crucial moment in the fight against climate change, the world’s biggest companies are not delivering on their commitments to curb warming.
Big Stock Photo
5 revelations from Suncor's visit to Parliament
In a testy exchange in Parliament, CEO Richard Kruger ducked key questions about pollution rules and the oil and gas industry’s role in climate misinformation.
Newsletter
Scientists look beyond climate change and El Niño for other factors that heat up Earth
Scientists are wondering if global warming and El Nino have an accomplice in fueling this summer’s record-shattering heat.
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