Search Climate Insights Directory

The Union of Concerned Scientists finds that increasing Wisconsin's renewable electricity standard to 25% by 2025 is achievable and affordable. Under the most likely 'No Hydro Imports' scenario, the state would see a $59 million reduction in electricity bills (when accounting for carbon savings), the creation of 2,650 new jobs, and a reduction in CO2 emissions equivalent to removing 2.1 million cars from the road. The analysis highlights Wisconsin's significant technical potential in wind, solar, and biomass to meet these targets while reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels.

The document details Rwanda's 2004 electricity crisis, caused by declining water levels in Lake Bulera due to watershed degradation and poor maintenance of the Ntaruka hydropower station. In response, the government implemented strict land-use policies, including banning agricultural activities in the Rugezi Wetlands, and launched ecosystem restoration projects. These efforts restored the Ntaruka plant to full capacity by October 2007 and prompted Rwanda to diversify its energy portfolio into methane, geothermal, and solar power to increase climate resilience.

The document outlines a 'build back safer and greener' framework for Nepal, focusing on minimizing environmental damage during post-disaster recovery. It provides sector-specific guidance on settlements, building construction, waste management, energy, infrastructure, WASH, agriculture, and education. Key strategies include the use of soil bioengineering for landslide stabilization, integrated settlement planning, and the promotion of renewable energy to reduce pressure on forests. The guide emphasizes cross-cutting issues such as gender equality, social inclusion (GESI), and climate change adaptation to enhance long-term community resilience.

The report argues that large-scale US dairies can reach net zero emissions within five years by integrating specific technologies and practices, potentially increasing annual net returns to $1.9 million per dairy. Key strategies include precision agriculture, feed additives to reduce enteric methane, and anaerobic digesters that convert manure and organic substrates into renewable energy and fertilizers. The analysis emphasizes that while technologies exist, achieving these goals requires significant policy shifts, such as expanded water quality trading markets and improved EPA processing of renewable fuel pathways.