Tiempo Climate CyberlibraryComment |
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About the CyberlibraryThe Tiempo Climate Cyberlibrary was developed by Mick Kelly and Sarah Granich on behalf of the Stockholm Environment Institute and the International Institute for Environment and Development, with sponsorship from the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency. While every effort is made to ensure that information on this site, and on other sites that are referenced here, is accurate, no liability for loss or damage resulting from use of this information can be accepted. |
In Whose Prize? Sunita Narain argues that the Cancún outcome favours only the rich. Published January 2011 Sunita Narain discusses prospects for the Durban climate summit. Paul Kelly considers the political implications of Australia's carbon tax. Stephen P Groff argues that we must draw on our experience of development cooperation to ensure that climate funds are used effectively. Lester Brown discusses climate change and food security. Andrew Freedman considers whether or not there is a link between tornadoes and climate change. Mark Hertsgaard describes the failure of the latest attempts to restrict climate action in the United States. Achim Steiner discusses greening the economy. Alistair Doyle considers the Kyoto Protocol's future.
In Remembering Minorities in Climate Action, James S Pender argues that minorities warrant greater consideration in local, national and international responses to the climate threat. Published January 2011 George Soros argues that a bottom-up approach is key to the climate impasse. Nidhal Guessoum considers the economics of renewable energy. Brendan Barrett and Sulayman K Sowe consider making climate science open source. G Pascal Zachary argues that Africa's food security is less threatened than many fear.
In Cancún Sets Important Adaptation Processes into Motion, Sven Harmeling argues that, as far as adaptation is concerned, the Cancún Climate Summit was a small step in the right direction. Published December 2010 Andrew Holding argues that equipping the public with the tools and knowledge to understand global warming can help them avoid the rhetorical tricks of climate sceptics.
In Cyclone Sidr: What Have We Learnt, Md Nadiruzzaman argues that we need to learn from past experience of the impact of natural hazards if we are to deal effectively with these events in the future. Published November 2010 Saleemul Huq argues that climate funds pledged to developing nations must be made more accessible.
In Copenhagen's Climate Finance Pledges, J Timmons Roberts considers how to ensure that the climate finance pledges made in Copenhagen actually materialize. Published November 2010 Gwynne Dyer comments on prospects for biodiversity protection following the Nagoya deal. David Dickson considers how science might help ensure water security as climate changes. New Scientist discusses the effect of solar activity on climate.
In Real Action on Adaptation, Sven Harmeling argues that a paradigm shift on adaptation is essential. Published October 2010 Andrew Revkin adds another item to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change's to-do list. Rodney Tiffen questions media coverage of the Climategate affair. Marion Tanguy discusses Norway's ecological mindset and investment in environmentally friendly technologies. Rajendra Pachauri argues that the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change plays a vital role in the climate debate. Renee Cho considers how the risks associated with climate change can be communicated effectively. Sunita Narain discusses the outcome of the April 2010 Bonn Climate Change Talks. Ali Bongo Ondimba argues that Africa's future security depends on equitable, green development. Grant Guilford considers the disconnect between scientific consensus on climate change and public opinion. Rebecca Solnit argues that, Copenhagen over, a battle has been lost despite valiant efforts, but the war continues Madan Shahu argues that the most vulnerable - the poor - must be helped to mitigate and adapt to the climate threat by whatever means possible.
In Solar Power for the Poor, David Dickson argues that, as technological obstacles to the efficient use of solar energy diminish, economic and political challenges remain to its widespread adoption by the poor. Published April 2010 Lewis Ziska argues that understanding how carbon dioxide impacts food quality is vital to tackle malnutrition effectively. Rina Saeed Khan considers which path the world took in Copenhagen. Sunita Narain reckons that the Copenhagen conference, in excluding people and voices for an unfair deal, will go down as the worst meeting in the global climate negotiations. Robin McKie believes that we can still step back from disaster if we learn from what went wrong in Copenhagen. David King argues that there is a way ahead after Copenhagen.
In Affluent Diets and Climate Change, John Powles explains why the diets of the rich and the poor are central to climate change policy. Published December 2009 At the time of the Copenhagen climate summit, an editorial calling for action from world leaders on climate change was published by 56 newspapers around the world in 20 languages. In an open letter, Ban Ki-moon, United Nations secretary-general, appeals to world leaders not to miss out on the opportunity to achieve an ambitious climate deal in Copenhagen.
In Mainstreaming Adaptation, M. J. Mwandosya, Minister of Water and Irrigation in the government of the United Republic of Tanzania, considers key issues in implementing adaptation measures. Published October 2009 John Vidal discusses how Africa might benefit financially from harvesting carbon. Aaron Tesfaye considers the threat to Africa's pastoralists posed by climate change. Linda Nordling argues that time is running out for African countries to ensure that a global climate deal addresses their needs.
In Adaptation by Ribbon Cutting, Robert Kay argues that a desire for grand ceremonies must not be allowed to skew decisions regarding approaches to adaptation. Published July 2009 In an interview with David Stanway and Luo Xiao, Mei Dewen argues that financing problems are holding the Chinese carbon market back. Madeleine Bunting discusses the search for an iconic image that can smash indifference and succeed where climate science and statistics fall short. Christa Marshall considers whether or not climate scientist James Hansen still matters. James Hansen reckons that the American Clean Energy and Security Act is no more fit to rescue our climate than a V-2 rocket was to land a man on the moon. Paul Arendt considers whether or not artists can save the world. Nasiru Idris Medugu argues that the Nigerian government must tackle the climate issue. George Monbiot wonders why the world's first climate evacuation is receiving so little attention.
In Seeing REDD in the Amazon, Virgilio Viana argues that REDD in the Amazon is a win for people, trees and climate. Published June 2009 Marcos Buckeridge argues that you can grow biofuels without destroying the rainforest. David Fogarty considers the challenge faced by Asian airlines in paying for their greenhouse gas emissions. Kathy Jo Wetter and Hope Shand argue that unproven and patented GM fixes will not help farmers in the South adapt to climate change.
In Progress Implementing National Adaptation Programmes of Action, Jessica Ayers discusses vulnerability projects identified by National Adaptation Programmes of Action for the Least Developed Countries. Published May 2009 George Monbiot reckons that, however unlikely success might be, we can't afford to abandon efforts to cut emissions. Yvo de Boer defines four essential steps to the Cophenhagen Agreement. Björn Stigson discusses the challenge of putting energy in a global climate agreement. Julian Glover considers the falling price of carbon.
In The Challenge for the Climate Action Network, Astrid Westerlind Wigström tasks the Network with becoming more responsive to developing country interests at international negotiations. Published April 2009 James Hansen reckons coal-fired power stations are death factories and should be closed. Nick Cumming-Bruce discusses climate lessons from 2008 The United Nations Environment Programme considers prospects for 2009. Trevor Houser considers prospects for agreement between China and the United States on climate issues. Murari Sharma argues that Nepal must be at the centre of environmental steps in South Asia.
In On Course to Copenhagen?, Gunnar Boye Olesen discusses issues facing participants in the climate negotiations in Poznań, Poland, December 2008. Published November 2008 Janet Larsen considers the threat of global security posed by climate change and rising sea levels. Joelle Chassard discusses progress in catalyzing climate action and investment.
In Climate Change Costs in Namibia, James MacGregor quantifies the costs of climate change on Namibia’s natural resource dependent economy and people. Published October 2008 Matthew Knight considers what might be done to combat climate change with funding equivalent to the United States financial bailout package.
In Energy in the Pacific, Tom Roper considers action that energy utilities can take in vulnerable Pacific island countries. Published September 2008 Jessica Daly considers the pros and cons of emissions trading. Handy Acosta Cuellar considers the situation of Cuba in the wake of Hurricane Gustav.
In Key Climate Treaty Components, Maumoon Abdul Gayoom stresses the human aspects of climate change and describes the key components of a good post-2012 climate agreement. Published August 2008 Björn Lomborg responds to Oliver Tickell's "overheated" warning on steep warming. Oliver Tickell argues that we need to get prepared for steep warming. Terry Slavin outlines the debate over carbon capture and carbon trading. Ricardo Radulovich reckons that we should grow biofuels at sea. Peter Kessler asks how the asylum system will treat climate refugees.
In Climate Change and Cities, David Satterthwaite explains why urban areas are central to adaptation and mitigation agendas. Published April 2008 Patrick McCully considers charges of corruption and profiteering against the Clean Development Mechanism. Jeffrey Sachs argues that the roll-out of new technologies is essential if we are to limit climate change and avoid an economic slump. David Nason discusses the world food crisis. Matthew Wald considers whether businesses should go carbon zero or carbon negative.
In Adaptation to Climate Change - Where Do We Go from Bali?, Sven Harmeling considers the next steps in meeting the challenge of adaptation. Published March 2008 Andrew Revkin considers the evolving debate regarding how to curb global warming. Ernesto Zedillo reckons that we need carbon prices not quotas.
In A Reason for Optimism, Gary Yohe discusses a significant change in attitude towards climate risk on the part of the international community. Published January 2008 Elisabeth Rosenthal argues that the poor are sidelined in climate change solutions.
In National Adaptation Programmes of Action: Priorities and Policies, Bubu Pateh Jallow (above) and Thomas Downing describe five challenges faced by the National Adaptation Programme of Action teams and the international climate policy community. Published January 2008 Brian Fallow argues that the New Zealand government should re-focus its climate-forest policy. Sunita Narain considers the Bali Action Plan "the mother of all no-deals".
In National Adaptation Programmes of Action: Lessons Learnt in Africa, Balgis Osman-Elasha (left) and Thomas Downing describe the lessons learned from preparing National Adaptation Programmes of Action in eastern and southern Africa. Published November 2007 Mark Rosegrant considers the rise in world food prices. Gwynne Dyer reckons we shouldn't be downhearted about the outcome of the Bali meeting. Charles Clover discusses hot air, hypocrisy and a revolution in Bali. Susannah Bailey considers New Zealand's greenhouse sceptics.
In Mainstreaming National Adaptation Programmes of Action, Bubu Pateh Jallow describes how efforts to mainstream adaptation are bearing fruit, in project design and in capacity to plan policies. Published November 2007 Robert Goodland argues that the World Bank is aiding environmental destruction. Gwyn Prins and Steve Rayner argue that it is time to ditch the Kyoto Protocol Julia Bradley-Cook discusses the implications of climate change and disaster risk reduction for Namibia.
In Climate Change and Pastoralism, Ced Hesse describes the challenges facing African pastoralists and key areas of policy intervention needed to help them cope with climate change. Published October 2007 Moeletsi Mbeki asks if Africa can solve its development problems. Eric Holt-Giménez "explodes the biofuel myths." Jim Al-Khalili argues that nuclear waste is hardly a worry when the climate change threat is so urgent. Matt Crenson argues that we need leaders not celebrities to save the planet. Gerard Wynn defines the debate surrounding carbon trading. Stefan Stevens argues that society needs the right chemistry. Marina Hyde advises Al Gore to get tough with Live Earth celebrities Bjørn Lomborg argues that a few cheap and simple measures could do far more good for the world than costly efforts to combat climate change Mark Lynas asks - Why should China commit to reducing emissions when western countries have failed spectacularly to do so? The Economist discusses the relative strengths of cap-and-trade and the carbon tax.
In A Roadmap for Implementing Adaptation Policy, Gary Yohe discusses the conclusions on climate impacts, adaptation and vulnerability reached during the Fourth Assessment of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. Published April 2007 The Times of London comments on the G8 climate deal. Grace Akumu asks who will represent Africa. Andrew Symon discusses the climate challenge facing Southeast Asia. Lisa Shipek argues that water harvesting can mitigate predicted water scarcity. Ambrose Evans-Pritchard discusses new developments in solar technology. James Kanter discusses nuclear power's comeback. Richard McGregor and Jo Johnson argue that India and China face a pollution time bomb.
In Climate and Disaster Reduction, James Lewis comments on the narrow focus and lack of innovation and commitment that has prevailed in international programmes when planning comprehensive disaster reduction strategies. Published February 2007 Dick Hubbard, the mayor of Auckland, New Zealand, reckons that every city has a role to play in fighting climate change. Alan Atkisson asks - What do we do after the climate breakthrough? The Wall Street Journal argues that the Bush administration's commitment to ethanol represents a huge public gamble. Jonah Goldberg reckons that global warming is a small price to pay for economic advancement. Jacques Chirac argues that the Earth needs a fully-fledged United Nations environmental agency, with adequate powers and institutional clout. Emmanuel Angleys discusses the current state of the European Emissions Trading System. Mike Hulme argues that the language of climate chaos and catastrophe has got out of hand. Anatole Kaletsky argues that is a good thing for long-term global problems that the World Economic Forum was such a bore.
In Modelling Adaptation?, Ian Burton calls for adaptation modelling to inform a new authoritative review quantifying economy-wide adaptation benefits. Published February 2007 Richard Black analyses the European Union's new energy plans. Walden Bello argues that globalization has reached its high-water mark and is receding. Fiona Harvey reviews the current status of the climate negotiations. Veena Khaleque considers the implications of climate change for Bangladesh and other developing countries. John Ashton argues that governments need to build a common language to resolve the planet's shared climate dilemma. Hal R Varian considers the assumptions made in the Stern report on climate economics. Antoaneta Bezlova discusses China and the Clean Development Mechanism. Ian Bray argues that the outcome of the Nairobi conference shows that politics is still missing from the global response to climate change.
In Capturing the Synergies between Climate Change and Desertification, Siri Eriksen defines the opportunities and challenges to be found in linking the climate change and desertification conventions. Published October 2006 According to Kofi Annan, the question is not whether climate change is happening but whether, in the face of this emergency, we ourselves can change fast enough. Jeremy Leggett reckons that the Stern Review pulls its punches. Charles J Hanley discusses conflict of interest and potential abuse in the operation of the Clean Development Mechanism. Steve Jacobs considers prospects for eco-friendly energy in the European Union.
In Priorities for Nepal, Rakshya Thapa outlines the challenge facing her country in the battle against climate change. Published September 2006 Rachel Roach discusses the outcome of the Mexico climate summit. Al Gore argues that investors must consider climate change one of a system of sustainability issues in the European Union. Jonathan H Adler comments on the use of public nuisance suits on climate change. Michael Casey reviews the development of biofuels in Asia. Eric Berger considers the on-going debate over the link between global warming and tropical storms. Lester Brown warns that ethanol could leave the world hungry. Achim Steiner urges African environment ministers to put forests, coral reefs, river systems and range lands on the priority list, arguing that "the sustainable management of natural resources is one of the keys to overcoming poverty." David Suzuki comments on recent evidence that the public doesn't understand global warming. Stéphane Dion argues that climate change requires action.
In Desertification and Global Warming: Common Action for Common Challenges, Staff members of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification Secretariat highlight the opportunities for cooperative action in combating desertification and climate change. Published August 2006 Thomas L Friedman considers the implications of climate change for Peru.
In Contraction and Convergence, Aubrey Meyer (above) and Raphaël Hanmbock argue for a flexible and equitable response to climate change after the Kyoto Protocol. Published July 2006
In Priorities for the Poor, Nasimul Haque explains the needs and concerns of poor and vulnerable people who are already experiencing the impacts of climate change. Published July 2006 Sama Banya argues that protecting the local environment would reduce Sierra Leone's vulnerabilty to climate change. Rona Ambrose, Canadian Environment Minister, discusses Canada's position on the Kyoto Protocol
In American Evangelicals and Climate Change, Sam Berry describes how evangelicals in the United States are beginning to see their biblically-based responsibility for 'creation care'. Published May 2006 John Kerry calls on the American leadership to put climate change on the national agenda. Robert Lee Hotz and Erin Cline consider whether or not the recent spate of heatwaves can be linked to global warming.
In Climate Change - Accepting the Challenge, A Barrie Pittock discusses the challenge we must accept if we are to respond effectively to the threat of climate change. Published April 2006 William J Broad discusses exotic ways to combat global warming. Saleemul Huq says the time is now ripe for the development community to engage with climate change. Catherine Brahic discusses prospects for the Sahel. David Gow argues that European energy groups are manipulating the European Union's carbon trading scheme. Ethan Heitner describes his experience of the Sustainable Energy Forum 2006.
In Least Developed Countries' Needs, Mohammed Reazuddin describes the actions taken by the Least Developed Countries to tackle climate change and the assistance that they need. Published April 2006 Tom Athanasiou and Paul Baer argue that the rich, whether in the North or the South, must cover the costs of climate protection. Andrew Revkin outlines global warming's public relations problem. Robert Sheppard considers the pros and cons of the Asia-Pacific Partnership on Clean Development and Climate. Larry Elliot discusses the latest negotiations in the World Trade Organization's so-called development round.
In Environment - the Basis of Livelihoods, Tony Nyong argues that the impact of climate change on the environment should not be neglected as natural systems provide the foundation for many livelihoods. Published December 2005 Alex Hetherington considers whether the Asia-Pacific Partnership on Clean Development and Climate represents more than smoke and mirrors.
In LDCs in the Climate Negotiations, Bangladesh Ambassador to Sweden Sabihuddin Ahmed describes some of the challenges faced by the Least Developed Nations in the climate negotiations. Published September 2005 Larry Lohmann argues that we are not keeping up with the challenge of climate change. Malik Amin Aslam discusses opportunities for Pakistan in the area of carbon finance. David Dickson and Johanna Wolf argue that a new strategy on climate policy is needed. Tony Juniper urges the United Kingdom to lead the fight for legally-binding climate agreements. John Zillman discusses science, technology and the Millennium Development Goals. Alan Oxley reckons the Asia-Pacific climate pact suits Australia fine. Jeff Erikson assesses the implications of rising oil prices for the energy sector and the sustainability agenda in the United States. Lee Dye considers whether global warming boosted Hurricane Katrina's strength.
In Sustainability - the Real Challenge Lies Within, Jonathan Diederiks maintains that achieving sustainable outcomes in business has far less to do with processes and management training than with individual human empowerment and emotional intelligence. Published August 2005 Sunita Narain comments on the Asia Pacific Partnership for clean development and climate change. Melanie Jarman considers whether a shift to micropower generation is the solution to climate change.
In Gender and Climate Change - a Forgotten Issue?, Ulrike Röhr discusses the historical lapse in assimilating gender issues in the climate change debate and the urgent need to undertake research and analysis on this issue. Published July 2005 Peter H Gleick comments on pseudo-science in the global warming debate. David Howell discusses a recent report on the economics of climate change. In the Policy Debate on Global Biofuels Development, various authors debate George Monbiot's controversial view that the adoption of biofuels would be a humanitarian and environmental disaster (0.5Mb download).
In Priorities for an Equitable Future, Andrew Simms describes the actions which need prioritizing in the global climate change arena if progress is to be just and equitable. Published April 2005 Benito Müller and Anju Sharma reckon that an export duty on carbon-intensive products could unlock the climate negotiations. Anna Gosline reports on the debate over climate and immigration.
In The Clean Development Mechanism and Sustainable Development, Ben Pearson argues that the Clean Development Mechanism is failing in its mandate to promote sustainable development. Published March 2005 Kim Stewart and Stephanie Long argue for change in coastal zone management. Dan Whipple contends that the climate problem is challenging traditional economic thinking. John Busby argues that nuclear power is not the answer to global warming. Maya Papineau concludes that China must become a leading partner in decarbonizing development. Mark Diesendorf argues that the campaign against wind power comes from those with vested interests.
In Plantations Are Not Forests, Ricardo Carrere documents the negative social and environmental impacts of the increased planting of monoculture tree plantations and denounces the mistaken rationale behind this activity. Published October 2004 Laurie David considers the snubbing of Kyoto. Ignacio Ramonet argues that debt cancellation and an international tax are needed to reduce the impact of natural disasters on the developing world. David Suzuki reckons that Canada can learn from California when it comes to automobile emissions. Henry Huntingdon considers the value of indigenous peoples' perspectives. Ben McNeil questions the Australian government's promotion of geosequestration. Eric Unmacht discusses Indonesia's energy options. David Dickson considers what happens after Kyoto. World Climate Alerts critiques the recent Arctic Climate Impact Assessment. Don Rothwell and Tim Stephens discuss Australia's obligation to protect the Great Barrier Reef against climate change. Roger Wicks argues that coal can contribute to sustainable development. A Powerpoint presentation (1Mb) is also available. Bjørn Lomborg argues that climate change doesn't mean the end of the world - we should focus on areas where we can make a difference. Tom Burke discusses the views of climate sceptic Bjørn Lomborg.
In Adaptation - a Caribbean View, Neville Trotz argues that adaptation is not a novel science; many solutions have existed for some time. Only the resources and the commitment to implement them are missing. Published August 2004 Peter Spotts considers implementation of the Kyoto Protocol. Indur M Golkany of the US Department of the Interior argues that money would be better spent reducing current vulnerability to malaria, flooding and food and water shortages than investing in climate protection. David King, chief science advisor to the UK government, responds. Mark Clayton explores energy efficiency options in the United States. L Hunter Lovins describes the early days of the Chicago Climate Exchange. Peter Spotts discusses why there have been so many hurricanes of late. Emily Boyd considers whether climate change policy can be brought down to earth. The Heartland Institute comments on a recent study from the Natural Resources Defense Council on climate change and heatwaves. John Vidal samples the views of the nuclear advocates. David Suzuki discusses recent advances in understanding of the global warming problem.
Saleemul Huq argues that the rich nations must share the blame for the Bangladesh floods. George Monbiot discusses attitudes towards the greenhouse sceptics.
In The World's Fragile Islands, Agnès Sinaï argues that, from the low-lying point of view of Pacific islanders or circumpolar-dwelling Inuit, the Kyoto Protocol seems an exploitative deal. Published July 2004
In The point seven percent solution, Mick Kelly (above) and Sarah Granich propose a way forward in broadening emissions control commitments. Published June 2004 |
Bright IdeasGeneral Electric plans to cut solar installation costs by half Project 90 by 2030 supports South African school children and managers reduce their carbon footprint through its Club programme Bath & North East Somerset Council in the United Kingdom has installed smart LED carriageway lighting that automatically adjusts to light and traffic levels The United States National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the American Public Gardens Association are mounting an educational exhibit at Longwood Gardens showing the link between temperature and planting zones The energy-efficient Crowne Plaza Copenhagen Towers hotel is powered by renewable and sustainable sources, including integrated solar photovoltaics and guest-powered bicycles El Hierro, one of the Canary Islands, plans to generate 80 per cent of its energy from renewable sources The green roof on the Remarkables Primary School in New Zealand reduces stormwater runoff, provides insulation and doubles as an outdoor classroom The Weather Info for All project aims to roll out up to five thousand automatic weather observation stations throughout Africa SolSource turns its own waste heat into electricity or stores it in thermal fabrics, harnessing the sun's energy for cooking and electricity for low-income families The Wave House uses vegetation for its architectural and environmental qualities, and especially in terms of thermal insulation The Mbale compost-processing plant in Uganda produces cheaper fertilizer and reduces greenhouse gas emissions At Casa Grande, Frito-Lay has reduced energy consumption by nearly a fifth since 2006 by, amongst other things, installing a heat recovery system to preheat cooking oil
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