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The report argues that while the technology to double trucking efficiency already exists, adoption is hindered by a fragmented industry structure, a lack of trust in efficiency data, and regulatory constraints. It highlights that Class 7 and 8 heavy-duty trucks are the primary targets for improvement, as they account for nearly 80 percent of truck fuel consumption despite representing less than half of the total truck population. The document maps the complex stakeholder ecosystem—including OEMs, mega-fleets, and regulatory bodies like the EPA and DOE—and emphasizes that systemic improvements require collaboration across the entire value chain, from design and manufacturing to operations and infrastructure.

The report projects substantial warming and shifting precipitation patterns for the US Midwest, with extreme heat events and heavy rainfall becoming more frequent. Under a higher emissions scenario, end-of-century temperatures could rise by up to 10°F, significantly increasing the frequency of severe heat waves and reducing snow cover. While annual precipitation may only increase slightly, winter and spring are expected to become wetter, while summer precipitation may decrease under higher emissions. These changes are projected to increase heat-related mortality and flooding risks across the region.

The report provides a state-by-state breakdown of progress toward 2020 Clean Power Plan benchmarks, noting that some states have exceeded 500% of their goals while others show 0% progress. It highlights the role of energy efficiency, renewable energy standards, and regional initiatives in achieving these targets.

The document details how a warming climate will increase the frequency and severity of heat waves and heavy precipitation in the Midwest, leading to higher mortality, infrastructure damage, and agricultural losses. It highlights specific risks to the Great Lakes shipping industry due to falling water levels and the threat to public health from water-borne diseases and combined sewer overflows in cities like Chicago and Milwaukee.

The document presents the first estimates of manufacturing subsector-specific energy use for the 10 member states of the Midwestern Governors Association (MGA). It aims to fill a data gap where public sources only provide general manufacturing data, thereby enabling policymakers to better identify energy efficiency potential and strategies that balance environmental and economic outcomes. The paper combines energy-use data with state-by-state policy summaries to highlight trends in industrial energy efficiency and cost competitiveness.

The report analyzes greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions for Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, and Wisconsin. Utilizing the World Resources Institute's Climate Analysis Indicators Tool (CAIT-US), it examines all six Kyoto GHGs across the regional economy to overcome inconsistencies in previous state-level inventories. The analysis covers regional, sectoral, and state levels, assessing major emission sources, trends, and socioeconomic drivers to inform stakeholders on the Midwest's role in global climate change.

Missouri can achieve 90 percent of its Clean Power Plan emission reductions by meeting voluntary energy efficiency goals, adhering to its 15 percent renewable energy standard by 2021, increasing the utilization of existing natural gas combined cycle plants, and improving coal plant efficiency. To close the remaining gap and exceed targets by 14 percent, the state could increase renewable energy to 20 percent of all state sales by 2030. The document suggests maximizing economic benefits through a market-based carbon pricing program—potentially generating over $40 million annually from out-of-state sources at $10 per short ton—and continued investment in energy efficiency, noting that Ameren's 2013 programs returned over $3 in benefits for every dollar invested.

Missouri can meet approximately 70 percent of the EPA's emission rate target for 2020-2030 by utilizing existing policies and infrastructure, including energy efficiency targets, renewable energy standards, and increased utilization of natural gas and combined heat and power. To close the remaining gap and exceed targets, the document suggests increasing energy efficiency goals to 2 percent of sales from 2015 onward and expanding the Renewable Energy Standard to all utilities with a target of 20 percent of total generation by 2030.

The report argues that transitioning to bulk milk dispensers (BMDs) in K-12 schools can significantly reduce packaging and liquid milk waste, lower waste hauling and refrigeration costs, and decrease greenhouse gas emissions. While initial startup costs and labor for cleaning reusable cups are primary hurdles, case studies indicate that these costs can be recouped through reduced waste and improved efficiency. The document highlights that BMDs can lower milk waste from roughly 32 cartons per student to 4.5 cartons per student annually, contributing to broader school sustainability goals.