Search Climate Insights Directory

The World Resources Institute argues that while biofuels can serve as a domestic substitute for petroleum and offer lower emissions than fossil fuels, their actual impact on emissions and the environment depends on the specific feedstocks and conversion processes used. Consequently, the WRI emphasizes that US policies promoting the biofuels industry must be carefully designed to minimize negative environmental and economic impacts.

The World Resources Institute (WRI) analysis reveals that a significant portion of the world's shale resources are located in water-stressed or arid regions, posing risks to energy development and local water security. The report highlights that 38% of shale resources are in areas of high water stress or aridity, and 386 million people live above these plays. It provides specific assessments for 11 countries and recommends that companies and governments implement water risk assessments, increase transparency, and adopt corporate water stewardship to mitigate conflicts with other water users, particularly in irrigated agriculture.

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.

Jonathan Lash, President of the World Resources Institute, testifies that the United States is currently missing an opportunity to lead a clean energy revolution while other nations, including major emitters like China, India, and Brazil, are already implementing significant climate actions. He argues that U.S. legislation is the essential prerequisite for a successful global agreement, as other countries are reluctant to commit without a clear U.S. pledge. Using China as a primary example, Lash asserts that the shift toward clean energy is driven by local needs—such as energy security and pollution control—rather than global charity, creating a massive market for clean technology that the U.S. risks losing if it does not put a price on carbon and support clean energy development.