white house
Newsletter
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White House seeks to revive US nuclear industry with new reactor push
President Biden aims to boost nuclear power with federal support for large-scale and small modular reactors to achieve carbon-free energy goals by 2035.
In short:
- The Biden administration highlights the completion of Plant Vogtle, the most expensive nuclear project in U.S. history, as a step toward reinvigorating the nuclear industry.
- A new working group will address high costs and lengthy build times for modern reactors, while exploring advanced reactors for military sites.
- Federal subsidies and streamlined regulations aim to support the deployment of small modular reactors despite current industry infancy and supply chain challenges.
Key quote:
“Recognizing the importance of both the existing U.S. nuclear fleet and continued build-out of large nuclear power plants, the U.S. is also taking steps to mitigate project risks associated with large nuclear builds and position U.S. industry to support an aggressive deployment target.”
— White House statement
Why this matters:
Reviving the nuclear industry is important for meeting climate goals and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. Enhanced federal support and streamlined processes could overcome past obstacles, fostering energy security and innovation.
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Newsletter
Credit: Tabrez Syed/Unsplash
New environmental regulations announced by the Biden administration
President Biden has recently introduced significant environmental rules targeting climate change, toxics, and wildlife protection.
In short:
- The administration has imposed a variety of regulations, such as a ban on asbestos, stringent auto emissions standards, and the first-ever regulations on "forever" chemicals in drinking water.
- Among the key policies are strict limitations on emissions from power plants and vehicles, aiming to drastically reduce greenhouse gases.
- New measures also include increased safety requirements for chemical plants and protection for endangered species under federal law.
Why this matters:
The recent actions by the administration to tighten environmental regulations mark a significant shift toward addressing long-standing public health and environmental challenges. While they may present challenges for industries adapting to new standards, the long-term benefits of a cleaner environment and a healthier population are invaluable.
Perhaps most groundbreaking are the first-ever regulations on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, often referred to as "forever" chemicals due to their persistence in the environment and the human body.
Related:
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Credit: Suzy Brooks/Unsplash
Climate group gains attention through direct action and White House engagement
In a notable shift within the climate activism landscape, the group Climate Defiance has rapidly gained prominence by employing peaceful yet confrontational tactics to challenge leaders and institutions on fossil fuel dependency.
In short:
- Climate Defiance, a new climate activism group, uses non-violent yet disruptive actions to confront influential figures and organizations over their fossil fuel ties.
- The group has successfully engaged with high-level officials and influenced decisions, gaining notoriety and support rapidly.
- Despite their confrontational approach, Climate Defiance has drawn attention and funding, challenging traditional activist norms and showing the effectiveness of direct action in climate advocacy.
Key quote:
“You’re burning my future."
— Michael Greenberg, co-founder, Climate Defiance
Why this matters:
Climate Defiance's approach underscores a growing impatience and urgency among activists, particularly young people, in addressing the climate crisis. Their success in drawing attention and influencing policy decisions reflects a significant shift in the dynamics of environmental activism, highlighting the potential of direct action in driving change. This matters for health outcomes as it directly challenges the status quo of fossil fuel reliance, aiming for more rapid and effective climate action.
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White House to announce new definition of zero-emission buildings
The Biden administration will announce a new definition of buildings that produce zero planet-warming greenhouse gas emissions.
White House touts Biden economic record on anniversary of climate change, computer chips bill signings
This month marks the first anniversary of laws to address climate change and boost semiconductor production.
Photo by Suzy Brooks on Unsplash
Biden White House blasts Republicans over climate amid heat wave
Amid the heat wave, the White House accused Republicans of "doubling down on climate denial" as Joe Biden visited the scorching Southwest.
Photo by Tabrez Syed on Unsplash
4 things to know about Biden's plan to value nature
The White House told federal agencies Tuesday that they should consider how natural resources benefit the public before they approve projects or write regulations that could change them.
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