Generated by All in One SEO Pro v4.9.9, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Institute For Governance & Sustainable Development ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://www.igsd.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [China's 15th Five-Year Plan for Building a Beautiful China: Implications for Non-CO₂ Super Climate Pollutant Mitigation](https://www.igsd.org/chinas-15th-five-year-plan-for-building-a-beautiful-china-implications-for-non-co₂-super-climate-pollutant-mitigation/) - 13 July 2026 - China released the 15th Five-Year Plan for Building a Beautiful China (the "Beautiful China Plan") on 3 July 2026. Building upon the 15th Five-Year Framework Plan for National Economic and Social Development (the "Framework Plan"), the Beautiful China Plan details an implementation agenda covering pollution control, climate mitigation, ecological protection, monitoring, - [The Methane Mitigation Opportunities in China’s 15th Five-Year Plan for Building a New Energy System](https://www.igsd.org/the-methane-mitigation-opportunities-in-chinas-15th-five-year-plan-for-building-a-new-energy-system/) - 12 July 2026 - China issued its 15th Five-Year Plan for Building a New Energy System (“Energy Plan”) on June 13, 2026. The Energy Plan sets out China’s priorities for upgrading the energy system during 2026–2030, with an emphasis on energy security, non-fossil energy deployment, infrastructure modernization, and low-carbon development. According to China’s 2024 Biennial - [China’s July 2026 Overseas Investment Regulation: Overseas Investment Must Follow Stricter Environmental, Compliance, and Risk Management Standards](https://www.igsd.org/chinas-july-2026-overseas-investment-regulation-overseas-investment-must-follow-stricter-environmental-compliance-and-risk-management-standards/) - Introduction and Overview On May 5, 2026, China’s State Council promulgated the Overseas Investment Regulation, which enters into effect on July 1, 2026. Beyond the legal details discussed below, the Overseas Investment Regulation is part of a key trend: China is increasingly sensitive to how overseas stakeholders perceive Chinese investment and export dominance. It also - [UN Environment Honors IGSD and Collaborators for Climate Work](https://www.igsd.org/un-environment-honors-igsd-and-collaborators-for-climate-work/) - IGSD and its collaborators were among those recognized for their extraordinary commitment and contributions to the Montreal Protocol during the 30th anniversary celebration of the treaty in Montreal. - [Black Carbon Emissions Cut 90% in California Model for Polluted Mega Cities of the World](https://www.igsd.org/black-carbon-emissions-cut-90-in-california-model-for-polluted-mega-cities-of-the-world/) - In a first-of-its kind study examining the impact black carbon has on climate in California, researchers found the state’s efforts to reduce air pollution, particularly from diesel engines, has cut black carbon concentrations by 90% since 1966, without... - [Judicial Responses to the Advisory Opinion from the Inter-American Court of Human Rights on the Climate Emergency](https://www.igsd.org/judicial-responses-to-the-advisory-opinion-from-the-inter-american-court-of-human-rights-on-the-climate-emergency/) - 8 April 2026 - Over the past two years, three advisory opinions on climate change clarified state obligations under international law: the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea Advisory Opinion on Climate Change and the Law of the Sea (May, 2024); the Inter-American Court of Human Rights Advisory Opinion OC-32/25 on Human Rights - [China’s New Ecological and Environmental Code: A Legislative Framework for Curbing Super Climate Pollutants](https://www.igsd.org/chinas-new-ecological-and-environmental-code-a-legislative-framework-for-curbing-super-climate-pollutants/) - On March 12, 2026, China enacted its landmark Ecological and Environmental Code (“the Code”), which is set to take effect on August 15, 2026. Comprising over 1,240 Articles organized into a hierarchical structure of Parts, Subparts, Chapters, and Sections, the Code marks a shift from fragmented regulation to a unified legal framework that integrates pollution - [Himachal Pradesh Unveils First Comprehensive Roadmap to Cut Super Climate Pollutants and Protect Himalayan Ecosystems](https://www.igsd.org/himachal-pradesh-unveils-first-comprehensive-roadmap-to-cut-super-climate-pollutants-and-protect-himalayan-ecosystems/) - On 24 February 2026, the Government of Himachal Pradesh launched the state's first comprehensive emissions assessment and policy roadmap to tackle short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs) and other non-CO₂ emissions, in a ceremony held in Shimla. The report, Tackling Non-CO₂ Emissions: Pathways for Himachal Pradesh, establishes a 2019 emissions baseline and models sector-specific pathways through 2047. The report - [China’s 15th Five-Year Framework Plan: Overview of Key Targets and Priorities for Mitigating Super Climate Pollutants](https://www.igsd.org/chinas-15th-five-year-framework-plan-overview-of-key-targets-and-priorities-for-mitigating-super-climate-pollutants/) - China's 15th Five-Year Framework Plan for National Economic and Social Development (hereinafter referred to as “the Plan”), released on March 13, 2026, identifies the country's key targets and priorities for economic and social development during 2026–2030, including on climate change mitigation. This policy brief provides an overview of key targets and priorities that are relevant - [China Strengthens Lifecycle Management of Ozone‑Depleting Substances and HFCs](https://www.igsd.org/china-strengthens-lifecycle-management-of-ozone-depleting-substances-and-hfcs/) - On 9 February 2026, the China Ministry of Ecology and Environment (MEE) issued the Circular on Further Strengthening the Management of Ozone-Depleting Substances (ODSs) and Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), which takes effect on 1 March 2026. The Circular covers the full lifecycle management of ODSs and HFCs, including production (including by‑production), sales, consumption, servicing, end‑of‑life recovery, reclamation, - [China Releases New Policies to Advance Efficient and Climate-Friendly Cooling](https://www.igsd.org/china-releases-new-policies-to-advance-efficient-and-climate-friendly-cooling/) - 8 January 2026 – China recently released two national policy instruments to advance the transition to energy-efficient, climate-friendly residential air conditioners (ACs) in its domestic market. These instruments also aim to strengthen the domestic collection and recycling systems needed to improve lifecycle refrigerant management. IGSD provides further details on these instruments, referred to as “Circulars,” - [China Launches Stakeholder Alliance to Control Industrial Nitrous Oxide Emissions](https://www.igsd.org/china-launches-stakeholder-alliance-to-control-industrial-nitrous-oxide-emissions/) - On 26 November 2025, the Chinese government launched the Industry–Academia–Research Alliance for Controlling Industrial-Sector Nitrous Oxide (N2O) Emissions in Beijing. The National Center for Climate Strategy and International Cooperation (under the China Ministry of Ecology and Environment) initiated the Alliance, together with the China Nitrogen Fertilizer Industry Association, the China Chemical Energy Conservation Technology Association, - [New Publication: Climate Justice and Human Rights: Legal Standards and Tools from the Inter-American Court’s Advisory Opinion 32/25](https://www.igsd.org/new-publication-climate-justice-and-human-rights-legal-standards-and-tools-from-the-inter-american-courts-advisory-opinion-32-25/) - Washington, D.C., 3 November 2025 — Irreversible climate destruction is a peremptory violation of international law. This unprecedented legal determination, alongside the explicit recognition of the right to a healthy climate and Nature as a subject of rights, is among the conclusions highlighted in the new publication, Climate Justice and Human Rights: Legal Standards and - [A First Look at China’s 2035 NDC: Headline Targets and Non-CO₂ Action](https://www.igsd.org/a-first-look-at-chinas-2035-ndc-headline-targets-and-non-co2-action/) - 3 November 2025 - Today, China submitted its 2035 Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. The submission reaffirms China’s 2035 NDC targets as announced by President Xi Jinping at the United Nations Climate Summit in September 2025. Additionally, it lists specific quantitative targets on non-CO2 GHGs. Key quantitative - [China’s Ministry of Ecology and Environment Describes Expectations for COP30](https://www.igsd.org/chinas-ministry-of-ecology-and-environment-describes-expectations-for-cop30/) - On October 29, 2025, China’s Ministry of Ecology and Environment (MEE) held its monthly press conference. Against the backdrop of the upcoming 30th Conference of the Parties (COP30) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), MEE stated that China will play a constructive role and support Brazil COP30 presidency. MEE noted that - [A Fast hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) Phase Down is Less Expensive than Slow!](https://www.igsd.org/a-fast-hydrofluorocarbon-hfc-phase-down-is-less-expensive-than-slow/) - 20 October 2025 - Montreal Protocol insiders and scholars from Brazil, China, Costa Rica, Ghana, and the United States have authored a new paper documenting that faster phasedown of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) to help avert near-term climate tipping points will cost less than the existing schedule. The paper, HFC Phasedown Under the Kigali Amendment to the - [China Policy Developments Provide Opportunities to Tackle Lifecycle Refrigerant Management in the Cooling Equipment End-of-Life Recycling and Disposal Processes](https://www.igsd.org/china-policy-developments-provide-opportunities-to-tackle-lifecycle-refrigerant-management-in-the-cooling-equipment-end-of-life-recycling-and-disposal-processes/) - 24 July 2024 – From January through July 2024, China agreed to various targets and measures to support the mitigation of fluorinated gas, including hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) and hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) refrigerant recycling and recovery, including: Prohibition of direct emissions of refrigerants and requires recycling, reuse, and harmless disposal of these substances during servicing and end-of-life processes: - [At New York Climate Week, Heads of State Call for Mandatory Methane Mitigation](https://www.igsd.org/at-new-york-climate-week-heads-of-state-call-for-mandatory-methane-mitigation/) - New York, 28 September 2025 - The Climate & Clean Air Coalition’s methane forum, co-hosted with Michael Bloomberg, was one of the most important meetings of Climate Week 2025. Ministers and current and former heads of State urged the world to take faster action to cut methane emissions to slow near-term warming. The call for - [Haryana Launches State Environment Plan and Landmark Report on Non-CO₂ Pollutants](https://www.igsd.org/haryana-launches-state-environment-plan-and-landmark-report-on-non-co₂-pollutants/) - 1 October 2025 - On 16 September 2025, Haryana Chief Minister Shri Nayab Singh Saini unveiled the new State Environment Plan (SEP), released in Panchkula, Haryana, which offers a complete analysis of the state's environmental landscape. The plan covers areas like agriculture, waste management, transportation, air and noise pollution, as well as biodiversity. The SEP - [How the Montreal Protocol Put the Stratospheric Ozone Layer on the Path to Recovery and Delayed Climate Tipping Points](https://www.igsd.org/how-the-montreal-protocol-put-the-stratospheric-ozone-layer-on-the-path-to-recovery-and-delayed-climate-tipping-points/) - 16 September 2025 – Today, on the occasion of the United Nations International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer, IGSD, in collaboration with the Planetary Guardians Initiative, Plus Wonder, and others, released a report describing how the stratospheric ozone layer recovered from the danger zone through swift action under the Montreal Protocol on - [Industry Leadership in Motor Vehicle Air Conditioning](https://www.igsd.org/industry-leadership-in-motor-vehicle-air-conditioning/) - 16 September 2025 - In celebration of the United Nations International Ozone Day, the Institute for Governance & Sustainable Development (IGSD) and the Mobile Air Climate Systems Association (MACS) released a 100-page history of automotive leadership in air conditioning and heating technology that protects the stratospheric ozone layer and climate. The history also includes a - [Punjab Launches Landmark Report on Non-CO₂ Pollutants for Cleaner Air and Climate Action](https://www.igsd.org/punjab-launches-landmark-report-on-non-co₂-pollutants-for-cleaner-air-and-climate-action/) - On World Environment Day, the Indian state of Punjab published Pathways to Net Zero in Punjab: The Critical Role of Non-CO₂ Pollutants, a groundbreaking report signaling a shift toward comprehensive climate action. The report, collaboratively developed by the Punjab State Council for Science & Technology, the Institute for Governance & Sustainable Development, and The Energy - [China Releases Industrial Nitrous Oxide Emissions Control Action Plan](https://www.igsd.org/china-releases-industrial-nitrous-oxide-emissions-control-action-plan/) - 27 August 2025 - Today, China released its Action Plan for Controlling Industrial-Sector Nitrous Oxide (N₂O) Emissions (“Action Plan”), jointly issued by the Ministry of Ecology and Environment (MEE), the National Development and Reform Commission, and the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology. IGSD’s bilingual Chinese-English version of the Action Plan is available here. This - [China Issues National Plan to Strengthen the Management of Ozone-Depleting Substances and Climate-Polluting Hydrofluorocarbons](https://www.igsd.org/china-issues-national-plan-to-strengthen-the-management-of-ozone-depleting-substances-and-climate-polluting-hydrofluorocarbons/) - 9 April 2025 – China’s Ministry of Ecology and Environment, together with the National Development and Reform Commission, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, the Ministry of Commerce, and the General Administration of Customs, issued the National Plan on the Implementation of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer (2025–2030) (hereinafter - [Super Pollutant Day at Global Climate Action Summit](https://www.igsd.org/super-pollutant-day-at-global-climate-action-summit/) - At Super Pollutant Day IGSD promoted the multiple benefits of mitigating super climate pollutants, including their critical role in keeping warming well below 2ºC, the outer limit set by the Paris Agreement. Watch IGSD president, Durwood Zaelke’s presentation here. - [How R-290 Cooling is Transforming the Automotive Sector and Fighting Super Pollutants](https://www.igsd.org/how-r-290-cooling-is-transforming-the-automotive-sector-and-fighting-super-pollutants/) - by Climate and Clean Air Coalition Secretariat Cutting hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) is essential in the fight against climate change and improving public health. Projects supported by the Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC), such as the Green Automobile Air Conditioner Technology Demonstration Program, are leading the charge in creating sustainable solutions with lasting impact. By tackling - [Groundbreaking Legal Opinion from Inter-American Human Rights Court Declares States’ Obligations to Address the Climate Emergency](https://www.igsd.org/groundbreaking-legal-opinion-from-inter-american-human-rights-court-declares-states-obligations-to-address-the-climate-emergency/) - San Jose, Costa Rica, 4 July 2025 — Yesterday the Inter-American Court of Human Rights published its groundbreaking legal opinion declaring that States have a wide range of human rights obligations to address what the Court unanimously agreed to be a real and escalating climate emergency. In order to protect and guarantee multiple human rights - [Webinar: First Reflections on the Inter-American Court’s Advisory Opinion on the Climate Emergency and Human Rights](https://www.igsd.org/webinar-first-reflections-on-the-inter-american-courts-advisory-opinion-on-the-climate-emergency-and-human-rights/) - On Thursday 3 July, the Inter-American Court of Human Rights is releasing its long-awaited Advisory Opinion on the Climate Emergency and Human Rights. In the forthcoming Opinion the Court is expected to clarify the obligations of States to protect human rights by addressing the causes and consequences of climate change, taking into account considerations of - [As Climate Crisis Escalates, Inter-American Human Rights Court to Issue Landmark Climate Opinion on States Obligations ](https://www.igsd.org/as-climate-crisis-escalates-inter-american-human-rights-court-to-issue-landmark-climate-opinion-on-states-obligations/) - Washington, DC, 30 June 2025 — The Inter-American Court of Human Rights is due to release its Advisory Opinion on the Climate Emergency on 3 July 2025, 10:00 AM CST. The forthcoming Advisory Opinion is the result of a historic public participation process and will create legal guidance for all 34 OAS Member States[1], including some - [China Issues Action Plan to Promote Development of the Heat Pump Industry](https://www.igsd.org/china-issues-action-plan-to-promote-development-of-the-heat-pump-industry/) - 2 April 2025 - China’s National Development and Reform Commission, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development, Ministry of Transport, and National Energy Administration jointly released the Action Plan for Promoting High-Quality Development of the Heat Pump Industry. The Action Plan aims to advance the high-quality - [IGSD Urges UN to Declare Human Rights Obligation to Reduce Methane Emissions](https://www.igsd.org/igsd-urges-un-to-declare-human-rights-obligation-to-reduce-methane-emissions/) - 28 February 2025- In response to the UN Special Rapporteur on Climate Change and Human Rights’ Call for Inputs on the Fossil Fuel-Based Economy and Human Rights, the Institute for Governance & Sustainable Development (IGSD) submitted its recommendations underscoring the urgency of reducing fossil fuel-based emissions of short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs), particularly methane, to slow - [New Handbook of Best Practices: Room Air Conditioner Installation for the Lowest Carbon Footprint](https://www.igsd.org/new-handbook-of-best-practices-room-air-conditioner-installation-for-the-lowest-carbon-footprint/) - 27 February 2025 - The Center for Environmental Energy Engineering (CEEE) at University of Maryland, the Climate & Clean Air Coalition (CCAC), Centro Studi Galileo, and the Institute for Governance & Sustainable Development (IGSD) released an open-source handbook that explains how to appropriately install high-efficiency room air conditioners for the highest energy efficiency and lowest - [IGSD & CEDHA Submit Amicus in Ecuador’s Historic Case on Fossil Gas Flaring (Mecheros Case)](https://www.igsd.org/igsd-cedha-submit-amicus-in-ecuadors-historic-case-on-fossil-gas-flaring-mecheros-case/) - 4 December 2024 - The Institute for Governance & Sustainable Development (IGSD) and the Center for Human Rights and Environment (CEDHA) filed an amicus curiae before Ecuador’s Constitutional Court, providing scientific evidence and compelling legal arguments to emphasize the need to prioritize the landmark 'Mecheros case' on fossil gas flaring. In 2020, nine girls from - [IGSD y CEDHA Presentan Amicus en el Caso Histórico de Mecheros en Ecuador](https://www.igsd.org/igsd-y-cedha-presentan-amicus-en-el-caso-historico-de-mecheros-en-ecuador/) - 4 de diciembre de 2024 - El Institute for Governance & Sustainable Development (IGSD) y el Centro para los Derechos Humanos y el Ambiente (CEDHA) presentaron un amicus curiae ante la Corte Constitucional de Ecuador, proporcionando evidencia científica y argumentos legales para destacar la importancia de priorizar el caso emblemático de los Mecheros. En 2020, - [China Strengthens Coal Mine Methane-Emission Requirements](https://www.igsd.org/china-strengthens-coal-mine-methane-emission-requirements/) - On December 1, 2024, China’s Ministry of Ecology and Environment and State Administration for Market Regulation jointly released the amended Emission Standard for Coalbed Methane (Coal Mine Gas) (GB 21522—2024). The Amended Standard applies nationally to new and existing coal mines and coalbed methane development systems in China. The Amended Standard is an important step - [Ford Motor Company Submits Application to List Natural Refrigerant R290 in Secondary Loop Architecture as Acceptable for Electric Vehicle Cooling and Heating](https://www.igsd.org/ford-motor-company-submits-application-to-list-natural-refrigerant-r290-in-secondary-loop-architecture-as-acceptable-for-electric-vehicle-cooling-and-heating/) - Washington DC, 19 November 2024 – U.S. automotive manufacturer Ford Motor Company submitted an application to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) to list R290 (propane) as acceptable for use in automotive thermal management systems under the Significant New Alternatives Policy (SNAP) Program. “Congratulations to Ford on this important step toward the introduction - [China Enacts Energy Statute with Significant Implications for the Climate](https://www.igsd.org/china-enacts-energy-statute-with-significant-implications-for-the-climate/) - 8 November 2024 – In the run-up to the 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, China enacted the Energy Law, which will enter into force 1 January 2025. The Energy Law is an overarching national statute that promotes and coordinates among the key government priorities for - [HFC-23 China Policy Brief](https://www.igsd.org/hfc-23-china-policy-brief/) - Hydrofluorocarbon-23 (HFC-23), also known as trifluoromethane (CHF3), is a very potent greenhouse gas largely unintentionally created, for instance, as a byproduct during the production of fluorinated compounds and chemical feedstocks, including hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC)-22. HFC-23 also has limited commercial uses, such as an ultra-low temperature refrigerant for specialized storage and manufacturing. HFC-23 has a 20-year global - [Ghana Climate Champion Kofi A. Agyarko Awarded 2023 Haagen-Smit Clean Air Award for Environmental Justice](https://www.igsd.org/ghana-climate-champion-kofi-a-agyarko-awarded-2023-haagen-smit-clean-air-award-for-environmental-justice/) - California, 22 October 2024 - Mr. Kofi Adu Agyarko from the Ghana Ministry of Energy has earned the prestigious 2023 Haagen-Smit Clean Air Award for Environmental Justice. The award will be presented October 24th in Sacramento, California, at the Board of Directors meeting of the California Air Resources Board (CARB). Mr. Kofi Agyarko has been - [New IGSD Resource Guide on Preventing the Dumping of Inefficient Cooling Equipment Using Obsolete Refrigerants in Vulnerable Developing-Country Markets](https://www.igsd.org/new-igsd-resource-guide-on-preventing-the-dumping-of-inefficient-cooling-equipment-using-obsolete-refrigerants-in-vulnerable-developing-country-markets/) - 8 October 2024 - The IGSD Resource Guide on Preventing the Dumping of Inefficient Cooling Equipment provides information and resources for government representatives and their advisors, researchers, academics, non-profit, philanthropic and other nongovernmental organizations, and other citizens to understand the practice of environmentally harmful dumping of new but energy-inefficient cooling equipment that uses high global-warming-potential refrigerants. The Resource Guide also provides insights - [Pope Francis, with Governors and Mayors, Calls for Action to Slow Climate Warming, Build Resilience](https://www.igsd.org/pope-with-governors-and-mayors-calls-for-action-to-slow-climate-warming-build-resilience/) - A cultural transformation is needed says Pope “akin to an ecological conversion” 20 May 2024 – Last week Pope Francis, along with the Vatican Pontifical Academy of Sciences and the Pontifical Academy of Social Sciences, issued a call for Planetary Call to Action for Climate Change Resilience. The three-day Vatican Summit issued a Compact calling - [China Explores Opportunities to Address Nitrous Oxide Emissions](https://www.igsd.org/china-explores-opportunities-to-address-nitrous-oxide-emissions/) - On 10 September 2024, China’s National Center for Climate Change Strategy and International Cooperation (NCSC) under the Ministry of Ecology and Environment (MEE) held a workshop on controlling emissions of nitrous oxide (N2O). The workshop is an initial step, for N2O, in implementing the goal of “researching the development of non-CO2 greenhouse gas emission control action - [China Strengthens Control of HFC Production for Kigali Amendment Implementation](https://www.igsd.org/china-strengthens-control-of-hfc-production-for-kigali-amendment-implementation/) - 8 July 2024 - Today China issued a new policy document aimed at strengthening the management of production facilities for all eighteen hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) currently controlled under the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol on Substances That Deplete the Ozone Layer. All are listed This new document, the Circular on Strictly Controlling HFC Chemical Production - [IGSD and NCAER Strategic Partnership to Study Economic Impacts of Arctic Sea Ice Melting on India](https://www.igsd.org/igsd-and-ncaer-strategic-partnership-to-study-economic-impacts-of-arctic-sea-ice-melting-on-india/) - New Delhi / Washington DC, August 7, 2024 — The Institute for Governance & Sustainable Development (IGSD) and the National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER) today announced a new partnership to investigate the economic impacts of Arctic ice melt on India, its economy and global impact. This collaboration aims to leverage both organizations' expertise - [China Proposes Requirements on Methane-Emission Assessment in Construction Project Environment Impact Assessment](https://www.igsd.org/china-proposes-requirements-on-methane-emission-assessment-in-construction-project-environment-impact-assessment/) - 2 July 2024 - China has released a draft-for-comment version of the Circular on Strengthening Methane Control in Environmental Impact Assessment of Construction Projects in Key Industries (“draft Circular” or “Circular”). The draft Circular requires methane-emission assessment in construction project environmental impact assessments (EIA) for key industry sectors, including the coal mining, oil and gas - [China Proposes Actions to Phase Down Hydrofluorocarbons in Draft National Plan](https://www.igsd.org/china-proposes-actions-to-phase-down-hydrofluorocarbons-in-draft-national-plan/) - 2 July 2024- China has released a draft-for-comment version of the National Plan on the Implementation of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer (2024-2030) (“draft Plan”). The draft Plan covers critical aspects of China’s proposed actions to phase out hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) and phase down hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) in fulfillment of China’s obligations - [China Proposes Strengthened Regulatory Action and Additional Market Measures to Mitigate Coal Mine Methane Emissions](https://www.igsd.org/china-proposes-strengthened-regulatory-action-and-additional-market-measures-to-mitigate-coal-mine-methane-emissions/) - 30 July 2024- China’s Ministry of Ecology and Environment (MEE) released a draft regulatory amendment and an emission trading methodology to strengthen methane emissions reduction in the coal mine sector. Both documents are open for public comment until the dates specified below and may be formally promulgated in the coming months, subject to MEE internal - [China Issues Measures to Regulate the Utilization of Domestically Produced and Imported Natural Gas](https://www.igsd.org/china-issues-measures-to-regulate-the-utilization-of-domestically-produced-and-imported-natural-gas/) - 3 June 2024 - Today China’s National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) issued the Administrative Measures on Natural Gas Utilization (see English reference translation) to regulate the utilization of domestically produced and imported natural gas in China.[1] The Measures provide that the NDRC and the National Energy Administration are responsible for the nationwide administration of - [China Issues Amended Regulation to Strengthen Its HFC Phasedown](https://www.igsd.org/china-issues-amended-regulation-to-strengthen-its-hfc-phasedown/) - 5 January 2024 — China amended its Regulation on the Administration of Ozone Depleting Substances (ODSs) to strengthen its implementation of the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer. China submitted its ratification document for the Kigali Amendment on 17 June 2021, which went into effect in China on - [China Announces Key Energy-Saving and Carbon-Reduction Targets and Actions for 2024-2025](https://www.igsd.org/china-announces-key-energy-saving-and-carbon-reduction-targets-and-actions-for-2024-2025/) - 29 May 2024 – China’s State Council issued the Action Plan for Energy Saving and Carbon Reduction in 2024-2025 (hereinafter referred to as the “Action Plan” or “Plan”) on 29 May 2024. The Action Plan announces major energy saving and carbon reduction targets that China aims to achieve by the end of 2025. The Action - [Brazil Hearing Puts Human Face on the Climate Emergency and Human Rights](https://www.igsd.org/brazil-hearing-puts-human-face-on-the-climate-emergency-and-human-rights/) - 24 – 29 May 2024, Brazil – Amid the worst floods in the history of the Brazilian State Rio Grande do Soul, a historic climate gathering unfolded in the heart of the Amazon: The Inter-American Court of Human Rights convened its second groundbreaking hearing to address the Advisory Opinion on “The Climate Emergency and Human - [Public Hearing in Barbados on the Advisory Opinion on “The Climate Emergency and Human Rights”](https://www.igsd.org/public-hearing-in-barbados-on-the-advisory-opinion-on-the-climate-emergency-and-human-rights/) - Bridgetown, Barbados - The Inter-American Human Rights Court held its first Public Hearing 24 to 26 April on the Request for Advisory Opinion on “The Climate Emergency and Human Rights” during the 166th Regular Session of the Inter-American Court of Justice in Bridgetown, Barbados. There will be four additional days of hearings in Brazil in - [Harvard: Alumni Spotlight, Preserving a Livable Planet](https://www.igsd.org/harvard-alumni-spotlight-preserving-a-livable-planet/) - Harvard profiled four of their LL.M alumni working with IGSD who have played a critical role in the efforts to avert the worst effects of global warming and preserve a livable planet. - [China Announces Further Steps Toward Reduction of Non-CO2 Super Climate Pollutant Emissions](https://www.igsd.org/china-announces-further-steps-toward-reduction-of-non-co2-super-climate-pollutant-emissions/) - At the China State Council press conference, the China Ministry of Ecology and Environment announced actions on non CO2 greenhouse gases, including methane, hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), nitrous oxide, and sulfur hexafluoride. Additionally, China’s Ministry of Ecology and Environment announced further actions to support ozone-depleting substance management and control. - [Aportes a la Opinión Consultiva de la Corte Interamericana de Derechos Humanos](https://www.igsd.org/5946-2/) - El 9 de enero de 2023, los Gobiernos de Chile y Colombia presentaron una solicitud conjunta de opinión consultiva ante la Corte Interamericana de Derechos Humanos sobre “La Emergencia Climática y los Derechos Humanos”. La Corte acogió la solicitud en marzo de 2023 y fijó el 18 de octubre 2023 como fecha límite para la presentación de las observaciones escritas de los interesados. Para apoyar el proceso, IGSD ha preparado varios documentos complementarios que brindan antecedentes sobre consideraciones científicas y legales en el nexo entre el cambio climático y los derechos humanos. - [Contributions to the Inter-American Court of Human Rights Advisory Opinion](https://www.igsd.org/contributions-to-the-inter-american-court-of-human-rights-advisory/) - On January 9, 2023, the Governments of Chile and Colombia submitted a joint request for an advisory opinion before the Inter-American Court of Human Rights on “The Climate Emergency and Human Rights”. The Court set 18 October 2023 as the deadline for submitting written observations. IGSD, the Center for Justice and International Law, and the Center for Human Rights and Environment are preparing amici, as well as helping other institutions and individuals with their amici submissions. - [Methane Action in China and Opportunities to Raise Ambition](https://www.igsd.org/methane-action-in-china-and-opportunities-to-raise-ambition/) - A new paper released today presents a comprehensive overview of China’s national targets and regulatory requirements relevant to methane mitigation and shares perspectives on opportunities to advance China’s ongoing efforts of developing a comprehensive policy framework for reducing methane emissions. - [UPDATED Primer on Cutting Methane: The Best Strategy for Slowing Warming in the Decade to 2030](https://www.igsd.org/updated-primer-on-cutting-methane-the-best-strategy-for-slowing-warming-in-the-decade-to-2030/) - Washington, DC, 19 March 2024 — Aggressively cutting methane emissions is the best and fastest opportunity for slowing warming by 2030. A peer-reviewed study co-authored by IGSD showed that pairing a fast mitigation sprint targeting methane and other super climate pollutants with the marathon to get to net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 can reduce the rate of warming - [Youth Demand Climate Justice Now in the World’s Highest Courts](https://www.igsd.org/dr-oran-young-awarded-mohn-prize-by-norwegian-prime-minister-for-arctic-research/) - Last Friday, as NYC Climate Week came to a close with its Summit of the Future at United Nations Headquarters, an international coalition of youth climate activists came together at Central Park in a powerful demonstration of solidarity and determination. Our shared goal: to demand that the upcoming advisory opinions on climate change and human - [Dr. Oran Young Awarded Mohn Prize by Norwegian Prime Minister for Arctic Research](https://www.igsd.org/dr-oran-young-awarded-mohn-prize/) - On 1 February, the final day of the 2024 Arctic Frontiers Conference, Dr. Oran Young was awarded the International Mohn Prize by Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, who presented the award at The Arctic University of Norway. In explaining its selection of Dr. Young for the prize, the Scientific Committee of the Mohn Prize - [Scientists Confirm Ozone Layer Healing Thanks to Montreal Protocol](https://www.igsd.org/scientists-confirm-ozone-layer-healing-thanks-to-montreal-protocol/) - The Montreal Protocol—the only treaty with universal membership of all UN countries—is continuing to heal the protective stratospheric ozone layer and also protecting the climate, a key scientific assessment concludes today. - [Study Reaffirms Importance of CO2 as Driver of Long-Term Climate](https://www.igsd.org/study-reaffirms-importance-of-co2-as-driver-of-long-term-climate/) - Short-lived Climate Pollutants Most Important Through 2030 A new study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Science USA, reaffirms that carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions are the primary driver of long-term temperature, and underlines the importance of immediate and parallel action to address emissions of both CO2 and short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs) to effectively - [Progress in Paris to Phase Down Super Greenhouse Pollutants](https://www.igsd.org/progress-in-paris-to-phase-down-super-greenhouse-pollutants-2/) - Path forward to eliminate HFCs, major climate pollutant Parties to the Montreal Protocol continued to make progress in their negotiations to phase down production and consumption of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), used primarily as refrigerants and to make insulating foams, opening a path to avoid the equivalent of up to 200 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions - [Obama, Xi Climate Agreement Opens Door to Paris Success in 2015](https://www.igsd.org/obama-xi-climate-agreement-opens-door-to-paris-success-in-2015-2/) - World’s top two climate polluters agree on fast action to cut short and long-lived emissions "President Obama's historic agreement today with President Xi in China is the kind of bold action needed to reinvigorate the world's efforts to slow and eventually reverse climate pollution before the most severe climate impacts become irreversible", said Durwood Zaelke, - [Landmark Climate and Clean Air Coalition to Reduce Short-Lived Climate Pollutants Celebrates First Anniversary](https://www.igsd.org/news2/) - The Climate and Clean Air Coalition to Reduce Short-Lived Climate Pollutants (CCAC) celebrates its first anniversary today. Launched by Secretary of State Hillary Clinton with an initial group of six country partners and the United Nations Environment Programme, the Coalition has quickly... - [China and Montreal Protocol Team Up for Fast Climate Protection](https://www.igsd.org/china-and-montreal-protocol-team-up-for-fast-climate-protection/) - The Multilateral Fund of the Montreal Protocol will provide China $385 million over the next 17 years to completely eliminate its industrial production of HCFCs by 2030. - [Arctic Council Calls for HFC Phase Down under Montreal Protocol](https://www.igsd.org/arctic-council-calls-for-hfc-phase-down-under-montreal-protocol/) - Arctic Council Ministers from Canada, Denmark, Finland, Norway, Sweden, the Russian Federation, and the United States yesterday called for taking action “as soon as possible” to phase down HFCs under the Montreal Protocol and for reducing black carbon and methane emissions in the Arctic. - [Obama, Xi can secure critical climate victory this week Leadership by two presidents would ensure successful HFC phase down; Montreal Protocol victory would produce fast climate protection](https://www.igsd.org/obama-xi-can-secure-critical-climate-victory-this-week-leadership-by-two-presidents-would-ensure-successful-hfc-phase-down-montreal-protocol-victory-would-produce-fast-climate-protection/) - President Obama and President Xi have the opportunity when they meet tomorrow and Saturday to secure the biggest climate victory available before 2020 by agreeing to phase down HFCs under the Montreal Protocol. In a letter sent yesterday, the... - [US and China Agree to Use Montreal Protocol to Cut Super Greenhouse Gases](https://www.igsd.org/us-and-china-agree-to-use-montreal-protocol-to-cut-super-greenhouse-gases/) - President Obama and President Xi concluded their first-ever summit June 8th with two successful outcomes: an agreement to work together to reduce the threat from North Korea, and an agreement to “work together and with other countries through multilateral approaches that include... - [Strengthened Ozone Treaty Provides Powerful Climate Mitigation](https://www.igsd.org/strengthened-ozone-treaty-provides-powerful-climate-mitigation/) - The 191 Parties to the Montreal Protocol reached a historic agreement late Friday night to strengthen the ozone treaty to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 25 billion tons of CO2 equivalent—more than the Kyoto Protocol’s initial reduction target from 2008 to 2012. - [Vice President Biden Keeps HFCs at Top of US Geo-Political Agenda During India Visit](https://www.igsd.org/vice-president-biden-keeps-hfcs-at-top-of-us-geo-political-agenda-during-india-visit/) - During his visit to India this week Vice President Joe Biden continued the Administration’s full court press on the HFC amendment under the Montreal Protocol, originally proposed by... - [Damage from Methane Release by Arctic Permafrost Could Cost $60 Trillion](https://www.igsd.org/damage-from-methane-release-by-arctic-permafrost-could-cost-60-trillion-2/) - Warming caused by methane released by thawing Arctic permafrost could cost the world more than $60 trillion in damages, according to a new study published yesterday in Nature, nearly equal to the 2012 global GDP of $70 trillion. - [Mario Molina receives Presidential Medal of Freedom for helping save ozone layer](https://www.igsd.org/mario-molina-receives-presidential-medal-of-freedom-for-helping-save-ozone-layer/) - President Obama announced yesterday that Dr. Mario Molina has been awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, along with former President Bill Clinton, and 14 others. The Medal of Freedom is... - [Steady March Towards Action on Reducing HFCs Under Montreal Protocol](https://www.igsd.org/steady-march-towards-action-on-reducing-hfcs-under-montreal-protocol/) - The Parties to the Montreal Protocol continued their steady march towards phasing down hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) under that treaty this week in Bangkok by reconvening... - [Study Confirms Need to Cut CO2 as Well as Short-Lived Pollutants Can’t Afford to Wait on Either](https://www.igsd.org/study-confirms-need-to-cut-co2-as-well-as-short-lived-pollutants-cant-afford-to-wait-on-either/) - A paper published today in Nature Climate Change confirms earlier studies finding that immediate and aggressive cuts in both carbon dioxide (CO2) and short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs) are necessary to maintain global temperatures below 2°C through the end of the century. - [The Montreal Protocol, a Little Treaty That Could](https://www.igsd.org/the-montreal-protocol-a-little-treaty-that-could/) - Here is a remarkable fact about global warming: It might be twice as bad right now were it not for a treaty negotiated by a conservative American president, for an entirely different purpose, based on motives no one has ever quite understood. - [Montreal Protocol Closing in on Powerful Climate Protection](https://www.igsd.org/montreal-protocol-closing-in-on-powerful-climate-protection/) - The world’s efforts to protect the climate from dangerous fluorinated gases moved forward this week in Paris at the mid-year meeting of the parties to the Montreal Protocol, which concluded today. - [UNEP fast action team expands battle against black carbon, methane, HFCs](https://www.igsd.org/unep-fast-action-team-expands-battle-against-black-carbon-methane-hfcs/) - On the eve of the UN Secretary General’s Climate Summit, ministers and vice ministers meeting at the High Level Assembly (HLA) of the Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC) agreed to expand... - [Improving Air Conditioner Efficiency Could Avoid Up To 100 Billion Tonnes of CO2](https://www.igsd.org/improving-air-conditioner-efficiency-could-avoid-up-to-100-billion-tonnes-of-co2/) - Improving the energy efficiency of room air conditioners to the level of efficient units already on the market can provide climate mitigation up to 100 billion tonnes of CO2 by 2050, a substantial part of the mitigation needed to keep the planet from warming more than 2°C above pre-Industrial levels. - [EU Parliament approves fast phasedown of HFCs](https://www.igsd.org/eu-parliament-approves-fast-phasedown-of-hfcs/) - A phasedown of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) in new air-conditioning and refrigeration was overwhelming approved by the European Parliament today, and will achieve a 79% reduction by 2030. - [IGSD statement on the new AGC refrigerant called AMOLEA™](https://www.igsd.org/igsd-statement-on-the-new-agc-refrigerant-called-amolea/) - The Institute for Governance & Sustainable Development (IGSD) congratulates the chemists and managers at Asahi Glass Company (ASC) for their new refrigerant that has equal energy efficiency with a GWP about 1/6th that of the status quo hydrofluorocarbon (HFC)-410a... - [China Announces Aggressive Action to Cut HFCs](https://www.igsd.org/china-announces-aggressive-action-to-cut-hfcs/) - China announced an aggressive target for reducing emissions of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) by the equivalent of 0.28 billion tonnes of CO2 by 2015. - [Progress on Fast Action to Cut HFCs Under Montreal Protocol](https://www.igsd.org/progress-on-fast-action-to-cut-hfcs-under-montreal-protocol/) - As the fourth day of the 26th Meeting of the Parties of the Montreal Protocol comes to a close, a unique collection of countries, including China, India, Brazil, and South Africa, along with the European Union and the United States, are calling for fast action to cut production and use of HFCs - [Cutting Short-Lived Climate Pollutants Key for Near-Term Climate Protection](https://www.igsd.org/cutting-short-lived-climate-pollutants-key-for-near-term-climate-protection/) - As UN climate discussions in Lima move toward their conclusion, there is a sense that the parties will produce a draft compilation of elements as the basis for negotiating a final agreement, largely because they have no choice if they want to conclude an agreement next December in Paris. - [Obama, Modi Agree to “Concrete Progress This Year” to Reduce HFCs Under Montreal Protocol](https://www.igsd.org/obama-modi-agree-to-concrete-progress-this-year-to-reduce-hfcs-under-montreal-protocol/) - India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Barack Obama issued a joint statement today agreeing to make “concrete progress in the Montreal Protocol this year" - [African Countries Endorse HFC Phase Down Under Montreal Protocol](https://www.igsd.org/african-countries-endorse-hfc-phase-down-under-montreal-protocol/) - The 54 countries of Africa, meeting in Cairo at the 15th session of African Ministerial Conference on the Environment, urged all member States to use the Montreal Protocol to phase down the production and use of HFCs - [India Takes Lead on Key Climate Strategy](https://www.igsd.org/india-takes-lead-on-key-climate-strategy/) - Today India made a formal proposal to amend the Montreal Protocol to phase down the super greenhouse gas, HFCs, reversing several years of opposition that only began to thaw after the election of Prime Minister Modi. - [Africa Demands Cuts in Climate-Damaging Refrigerants](https://www.igsd.org/africa-demands-cuts-in-climate-damaging-refrigerants/) - Parties to the Montreal Protocol agreed today to inter-sessional meetings to ensure a path to finalizing an amendment this November to cut HFCs. - [G7 Urges Phase Down of HFCs under Montreal Protocol This Year](https://www.igsd.org/g7-urges-phase-down-of-hfcs-under-montreal-protocol-this-year/) - The Group of Seven leaders agreed today to “continue our efforts to phase down hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) and call on all Parties to the Montreal Protocol to negotiate an amendment this year to phase down HFCs and on donors to assist developing countries in its implementation.” - [Pope Calls for Fast Action on Climate Change to Aid Poor and Vulnerable](https://www.igsd.org/pope-calls-for-fast-action-on-climate-change-to-aid-poor-and-vulnerable/) - The Pope’s efforts to protect climate and the environment, especially for the world’s most poor and vulnerable peoples, depends on the success of urgent action including reduction of both short-lived climate pollutants and long-lived CO2 emissions. - [EPA Finalizes Rule on Safer HFC Alternatives Under SNAP Program](https://www.igsd.org/epa-finalizes-rule-on-safer-hfc-alternatives-under-snap-program/) - The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) took strong action today to ban and otherwise restrict the use of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) used in refrigeration, air conditioning, and foam and aerosol products. - [Countries Agree to Use Montreal Protocol to Phase Down HFCs](https://www.igsd.org/countries-agree-to-use-montreal-protocol-to-phase-down-hfcs/) - The countries of the world agreed today to work together in 2016 to use the Montreal Protocol to eliminate the global warming contribution from one of the six main greenhouse gases by phasing down refrigerants called hydrofluorocarbons, or HFCs. A long list of details are scheduled to be negotiated during a series of meetings next year during, both at an extraordinary Working Group... - [COP21 Leaders Event: President Obama Reminds World of Progress via Montreal](https://www.igsd.org/cop21-leaders-event-president-obama-reminds-world-of-progress-via-montreal/) - President Obama reminded the world of the success of the Montreal Protocol, an international climate agreement that continues to provide bold mitigation, at the Leaders Event opening of COP21. "Earlier this month in Dubai, after years of delay, the world agreed to work together to cut the super-pollutants known as HFCs. That's progress." - [COP21 Update:  Focus on Short-Lived Climate Pollutants](https://www.igsd.org/cop21-update-focus-on-short-lived-climate-pollutants/) - National delegations and private sectors committed to new and increased actions to reduce short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPS) at the COP21 climate conference today. Among the fast action initiatives announced under the Lima Paris Action Agenda (LPAA) were sector commitments to reduce hydrofluorocarbons - [Acuerdo en Paris y el futuro de la Tierra](https://www.igsd.org/acuerdo-en-paris-y-el-futuro-de-la-tierra/) - Luego de años de negociaciones intensas, por primera vez en la historia los Estados de todo el mundo acuerdan trabajar de manera conjunta para evitar el daño irreversible de nuestra casa común. El acuerdo es sin duda histórico y es crucial en la construcción de un mundo más justo. - [Post-Paris Pivot to Fast Near-term Climate Mitigation](https://www.igsd.org/oewg37/) - In the first test of post-Paris climate mitigation, Parties to the Montreal Protocol made significant progress last week to eliminate warming from super greenhouse gases known as hydrofluorocarbons, or HFCs, used primarily as refrigerants in air conditioners and other equipment. HFCs are one of the six main greenhouse gases. - [Les réductions d’émissions de carbones au terme de l’Accord de Paris ne permettent pas d’atteindre l’objectif nécessaire pour sauver le climat](https://www.igsd.org/les-reductions-demissions-de-carbones-au-terme-de-laccord-de-paris-ne-permettent-pas-datteindre-lobjectif-necessaire-pour-sauver-le-climat/) - L’Accord de Paris sur le climat signé vendredi 22 avril est important, mais pas suffisant. En terme de protection climatique, il faut agir vite. Une réduction immédiate de quatre super polluants pourrait aider à faire la différence entre un climat raisonnablement sécurisé et un climat qui aurait des coûts humains et financiers ahurissants. Les scientifiques - [Reducciones de dióxido de carbono conforme el Acuerdo de Paris no son suficientes para alcanzar los objetivos críticos de límite de temperatura global](https://www.igsd.org/reducciones-de-dioxido-de-carbono-conforme-el-acuerdo-de-paris-no-son-suficientes-para-alcanzar-los-objetivos-criticos-de-limite-de-temperatura-global/) - Reducciones rápidas de los ‘ grandes contaminantes’, el metano y el hollín, son necesarios para prevenir consecuencias calamitosas a corto plazo. El Acuerdo del Clima de Paris, que representantes de 175 países firmaron el viernes, es importante pero no es suficiente. La velocidad es primordial en la protección ambiental. Reducciones inmediatas de los cuatro contaminantes - [Líderes do G7 se comprometem a reduzir os super poluentes e cortar o aquecimento de curto prazo](https://www.igsd.org/lideres-do-g7-se-comprometem-a-reduzir-os-super-poluentes-e-cortar-o-aquecimento-de-curto-prazo/) - Além de se comprometerem a liderarem os esforços para fazer o Acordo de Paris entrar vigor em 2016, a declaração de 27 de maio dos líderes do G7 promete pela primeira vez a cortar o aquecimento de curto prazo por meio da eliminação progressiva de super poluentes de vida curta como carbono negro, metano, e HFCs. - [EU, UK, Brazil, Indonesia Call For Collective Action By G20 Nations to Accelerate and Scale Climate Action](https://www.igsd.org/eu-uk-brazil-indonesia-call-for-collective-action-by-g20-nations-to-accelerate-and-scale-climate-action/) - At the official G20 prelude to the World Sustainable Development Summit 2023, co-hosted by The Energy & Resources Institute (TERI) and the Institute for Governance & Sustainable Development (IGSD), key ambassadors from G20 countries addressed the challenges and opportunities for collective action to accelerate and scale climate action and deploy climate finance in this decisive decade. - [World leaders to US: “Welcome back to the fight. This time I know our side will win”](https://www.igsd.org/world-leaders-to-us-welcome-back-to-the-fight-this-time-i-know-our-side-will-win/) - Most world leaders who spoke this morning at President Joe Biden’s Leaders’ Summit welcomed the U.S. back to the climate fight. Many world leaders echoed President Biden’s science goal of limiting warming to 1.5 °C, and many shared the president’s focus on the decade of action to 2030. - [CCAC High Level Assembly: Reducing HFCs via Montreal Protocol is the most significant climate action the world can take this year](https://www.igsd.org/ccac-executive-high-level-assembly-reducing-hfcs-via-montreal-protocol-is-the-most-significant-climate-action-the-world-can-take-this-year/) - The CCAC HLA in Vienna releases communique calling for an ambitious amendment to phase-down HFCs under the Montreal Protocol. - [Obama Climate Priority Moves Closer to Cutting HFC Super Pollutants](https://www.igsd.org/obama-climate-priority-moves-closer-to-cutting-hfc-super-pollutants/) - The top climate priority of President Obama to use the Montreal Protocol to phase down HFCs became much more likely in the early hours of Sunday, when almost all parties converged on a narrower set of options on key issues as they concluded their extraordinary meeting in Vienna. - [California Governor Signs World’s Toughest Super Pollutant Law](https://www.igsd.org/california-governor-signs-worlds-toughest-super-pollutant-law/) - Today California Governor Jerry Brown signed the nation’s—and the world’s— strictest law against powerful short-lived super pollutants – SB 1383 – pushing the state’s near-term climate mitigation efforts one step further. - [Implementing Energy Efficiency at Scale: The HFC Montreal Protocol amendment this year](https://www.igsd.org/implementing-energy-efficiency-at-scale-the-hfc-montreal-protocol-amendment-this-year/) - The hosts of the two most important climate meetings this year, Moroccan Environment Minister and COP22 Climate Champion Hakima El Haite and Environment Minister of Rwanda Vincent Biruta, will co-host a press conference on the opportunity to implement energy efficiency - [Philanthropic Group Launches World’s Largest Energy Efficiency Investment](https://www.igsd.org/philanthropic-group-launches-worlds-largest-energy-efficiency-investment/) - Today Bill Gates and other philanthropic foundations announced fast-start funding to maximize energy efficiency in parallel with an ambitious HFC amendment under the Montreal Protocol. - [Nations Agree to Kigali Amendment: Largest Near-Term Temperature Reduction from Single Agreement](https://www.igsd.org/nations-agree-to-kigali-amendment-largest-near-term-temperature-reduction-from-single-agreement/) - Warming caused by one of the six main greenhouse gases will be taken out of the climate system through the Kigali Amendment agreed in the early morning hours today in Rwanda. The amendment to the Montreal Protocol to phase out HFCs is the largest temperature reduction ever achieved by a single agreement. - [Paris Agreement Enters into Force – Celebration and Reality Check](https://www.igsd.org/paris-agreement-enters-into-force-celebration-and-reality-check/) - Humanity will look back on November 4, 2016, as the day that countries of the world shut the door on inevitable climate disaster and set off with determination towards a sustainable future. The Paris Climate Change Agreement – the result of the most complex, comprehensive and critical international climate negotiation ever attempted – came into force today. - [Under 2 Degrees Celsius: Fast Action Policies to Protect People & the Planet from Extreme Climate Changes](https://www.igsd.org/under-2-degrees-celsius-fast-action-policies-to-protect-people-the-planet-from-extreme-climate-changes-2/) - Over 30 scientists and policymakers are now calling on the global public to determine the best methods for solving the climate crisis. The High-Level Summary is now open for public review. - [Climate and Security Working Group International Issues Statement on Climate Change and Security](https://www.igsd.org/climate-and-security-working-group-international-issues-statement-on-climate-change-and-security/) - The Climate and Security Working Group International Issues Statement on Climate Change and Security (CSWG-I), an international group of national security, military and foreign policy experts, issued a statement on Climate Change and Security. - [US Announces Pro-Economic Growth Strategy for Mid-Century Decarbonization](https://www.igsd.org/us-announces-pro-economic-growth-strategy-for-mid-century-decarbonization/) - The US Mid-Century Strategy for Deep Decarbonisation report released today lays out a “strategy to deeply decarbonize” the economy, by reducing the nation's emissions of greenhouse gases by 80 percent by 2050, while boosting growth and jobs. - [Momentum Stalls in Marrakech, Despite Plea for Urgent and Ambitious Action](https://www.igsd.org/momentum-stalls-in-marrakech-despite-plea-for-urgent-and-ambitious-action/) - We lost a step in Marrakech that we couldn’t afford,” said Durwood Zaelke, President of the Institute for Governance & Sustainable Development. - [TIME Magazine Names Montreal Protocol Atmospheric Scientist Dr. Guus Velders Among Most Influential People of 2017](https://www.igsd.org/time-magazine-names-montreal-protocol-atmospheric-scientist-dr-guus-velders-among-most-influential-people-of-2017/) - TIME Magazine has named Dutch scientist Dr. Guus Velders one of the 100 most influential people for 2017 for research that helped smooth the way to amend the 1987 Montreal Protocol to strengthen its role fighting global warming by eliminating warming from hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs). - [New strategy needed to cut the rate of global warming in half by 2042 say top scientists](https://www.igsd.org/new-strategy-needed-to-cut-the-rate-of-global-warming-in-half-by-2042-say-top-scientists/) - Writing in today's issue of Science, the scientists – members of the Scientific Advisory Panel of the Climate and Clean Air Coalition – say that achieving the ambitious goal of slowing warming by 0.5 degree Celsius over the next quarter of a century is “plausible” and would have “many potential benefits” in tackling poverty, improving health and avoiding damage to crops besides reducing climate change. - [Élysée Palace Announces Opening of IGSD Office in Paris](https://www.igsd.org/elysee-palace-announces-opening-of-igsd-office-in-paris/) - The Institute for Governance & Sustainable Development (IGSD) became the first climate research group to accept French President Emmanuel Macron’s invitation to France to work together on the fight against climate change. - [The Quest for a Better Air Conditioner](https://www.igsd.org/the-quest-for-a-better-air-conditioner/) - There’s no single solution for climate change, but there is one that would be more effective than others. What do you think it is? - [Tata Motors and MAHLE partner together to develop a prototype Secondary Loop Mobile Air Conditioning System on a vehicle](https://www.igsd.org/tata-motors-and-mahle-partner-together-to-develop-a-prototype-secondary-loop-mobile-air-conditioning-system-on-a-vehicle/) - Tata Motors Limited and MAHLE, one of the world’s 20 largest suppliers to the automotive industry, have signed a joint development agreement for designing and developing a Secondary Loop Mobile Air Conditioning System (SL–MAC), under the aegis of United Nations Environment. MAHLE and Tata Motors, along with the Institute for Governance and Sustainable Development (IGSD), which is coordinating the project, received funding for developing the SL-MAC system from the CCAC. - [New Reports Detail Essential Climate Policies Needed to Limit Warming Below 2°Celsius](https://www.igsd.org/new-reports-detail-essential-climate-policies-needed-to-limit-warming-below-2celsius/) - Two new studies released today find that global temperature increases can be limited to less than 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, as global leaders have pledged through the Paris Agreement, but only if the world quickly pursues three cooling approaches. - [Vatican Pontifical Academy of Sciences Proposes Practical Solutions to Prevent Catastrophic Climate Change](https://www.igsd.org/vatican-pontifical-academy-of-sciences-proposes-practical-solutions-to-prevent-catastrophic-climate-change/) - Scalable and practical solutions exist to help preserve the quality of life of future generations in the face of accelerating climate impacts, and with perhaps a decade left to put these into place, the time for climate change action is now. - [CCAC Urges Ratification of Kigali Amendment, Welcomes Complementary Efforts to Increase Energy Efficiency](https://www.igsd.org/ccac-urges-ratification-of-kigali-amendment-welcomes-complementary-efforts-to-increase-energy-efficiency/) - Continuing their leadership on short-lived climate pollutants, the Bonn Communique of the Climate & Clean Air Coalition released today commends the twelve countries that have ratified the Kigali Amendment and encourage all countries to welcome complementary efforts to support increased energy efficiency in cooling appliances. - [Kigali Amendment Reaches Needed Ratifications in Run Up to Montreal Protocol’s 30th Anniversary Meeting Next Week](https://www.igsd.org/kigali-amendment-reaches-needed-ratifications-in-run-up-to-montreal-protocols-30th-anniversary-meeting-next-week/) - In the run up to the Montreal Protocol’s 30th anniversary Meeting next week, this afternoon Sweden became the 20th Party to deposit its instrument of ratification to the Kigali Amendment, which ensures that the amendment will enter into force 1 January 2019. - [Montreal Protocol Concludes 30th Anniversary with Robust Financial Replenishment, Progress on Energy Efficiency](https://www.igsd.org/montreal-protocol-concludes-30th-anniversary-meeting-with-robust-replenishment-and-progress-on-energy-efficiency/) - At the conclusion of the 30th anniversary Meeting of the Parties of the Montreal Protocol the Parties agreed to a robust three-year replenishment to fund the continuing phase out of HCFCs, and to a separate decision to have the TEAP study how best to integrate energy efficiency with the HFC phasedown under the Kigali Amendment. - [World Environment Minsters Pursue ‘Pollution Free Planet’, Tackle Super Climate Pollutants](https://www.igsd.org/world-environment-minsters-aim-towards-a-pollution-free-planet-tackle-super-climate-pollutants/) - Environment ministers at UNEA agreed today to a resolution to reduce all forms of air pollution to improve health, climate, and agricultural co-benefits, and to reduce 6.5 million deaths air pollution now causes every year. - [Fast Mitigation to Save Lives and the Planet in Latin America and the Caribbean](https://www.igsd.org/fast-mitigation-to-save-lives-and-the-planet-in-latin-america-and-the-caribbean/) - The implementation of measures to reduce air pollution and short-lived climate pollutants – which include black carbon, methane, tropospheric ozone, and hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) – will reduce warming in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) up to 0.9º C by 2050, whilst providing significant other co-benefits. - [Morocco Takes Lead Tackling Inefficient ACs](https://www.igsd.org/morocco-takes-lead-tackling-inefficient-acs/) - The Moroccan Agency for Energy Efficiency and the Institute for Governance and Sustainable Development signed a memorandum of understanding to cooperate in developing more effective analytical methods to identify the highest efficiency room ACs available using refrigerants friendlier to climate. - [Dangerous Warming Ahead from Air Conditioning](https://www.igsd.org/dangerous-warming-ahead-from-air-conditioning/) - Global energy demand for ACs is projected to triple by 2050, and when met with the current fossil fuel-heavy electricity generation will nearly double greenhouse gas emissions from this sector, further increasing the world’s need for cooling in a dangerous feedback loop. - [As World Warms, Millions More Need Cooling (and This Could Cause More Warming)](https://www.igsd.org/as-the-world-warms-millions-more-need-cooling-and-this-could-cause-more-warming/) - As the world warms up, the growing use of ACs and other cooling equipment will accelerate, and the extra energy needed to power the equipment will itself increase global warming. Two authoritative reports published this week grapple with how to break this vicious circle, and keep people cool without heating the planet. - [Entre la esperanza y el abismo: Informe Especial de Naciones Unidas sobre un Planeta con un incremento de 1.5°C de temperatura](https://www.igsd.org/entre-la-esperanza-y-el-abismo-informe-especial-de-naciones-unidas-sobre-un-planeta-con-un-incremento-de-1-5c-de-temperatura/) - El informe especial del Panel Intergubernamental Sobre Cambio Climático sobre las consecuencias de un Planeta a 1.5°C de temperatura o un Planeta a 2°C es un mensaje de esperanza, pero con una clara advertencia: si seguimos en la trayectoria actual caminamos hacia el abismo. - [Dangerous Demand for Air Conditioning](https://www.igsd.org/dangerous-demand-for-air-conditioning/) - The efficiency of ACs needs to double in little over two decades as part of a drive to give the world a chance of avoiding dangerous climate change, the IEA reports. Otherwise, the growing demand for cooling and the fossil fuel needed to feed that demand will cause still more warming in a dangerous feedback loop, even as it saves lives, creates wealth, and improves education in the world’s hottest countries. - [The Kigali Amendment’s and China’s Critical Roles in Evolving the Montreal Protocol](https://www.igsd.org/the-kigali-amendments-and-chinas-critical-roles-in-evolving-the-montreal-protocol/) - A new article in the fall 2018 issue of Natural Resources & Environment (American Bar Association), by IGSD attorneys Xiaopu Sun and Richard Ferris, examines the Kigali Amendment’s and China’s critical roles in evolving the Montreal Protocol into a full-fledged climate treaty. - [Montreal Protocol Aims High in Quito to Avoid 1º C of Future Warming](https://www.igsd.org/montreal-protocol-aims-high-in-quito-to-avoid-1o-c-of-future-warming/) - At the conclusion of the annual meeting of the Montreal Protocol, the Parties took their strongest action yet to increase energy efficiency of cooling equipment in parallel with the mandated phase down of HFC refrigerants under the Kigali Amendment - [Global warming will happen faster than we think](https://www.igsd.org/global-warming-will-happen-faster-than-we-think/) - From developments in renewable energy, to the growing capacity of energy-storage systems and the adoption of electric vehicles, global action taken to combat rising temperatures has undoubtedly come a long way. But as climate impacts mount, little time remains to ramp up the necessary ambition to limit temperatures to 1.5°C. - [Global Agreement to Phase Down HFCs Enters into Force](https://www.igsd.org/global-agreement-to-phase-down-hfcs-enters-into-force/) - On 1 January 2019 the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol entered into force, mandating the phase down of super climate pollutants HFCs. The amendment has been ratified by 65 parties. - [Dumping of Obsolete Air Conditioners Undermines Development and Climate Goals](https://www.igsd.org/dumping-of-obsolete-air-conditioners-undermines-development-and-climate-goals/) - Inefficient ACs dumped into other countries overload energy resources, undermining national and local efforts to manage energy, environment, health, and climate goals, according to new analysis published in the Duke Environmental Law & Policy Forum. - [Mobile Air Conditioning, Lowest Cost Alternative Refrigerant Identified](https://www.igsd.org/mobile-air-conditioning-lowest-cost-alternative-refrigerant-identified/) - Implemented in a new design called Secondary Loop Mobile Air Conditioning (SL-MAC), the lowest cost alternative refrigerant to HFC-134a has been identified as R-152a. This improved refrigerant is more energy efficient and requires less routine maintenance. - [Cutting HFCs in U.S.: Key Pathway to Deep Decarbonization](https://www.igsd.org/cutting-hfcs-in-u-s-key-pathway-to-deep-decarbonization/) - Cutting HFCs is a key pathway for the deep decarbonization needed to keep the planet relatively safe. IGSD’s chapter on Fluorinated Gasses is part of ELI's Legal Pathways to Deep Decarbonization in the U.S., now available for purchase. - [Catastrophic Arctic Warming Predicted Even with Current Paris Pledges](https://www.igsd.org/catastrophic-arctic-warming-predicted-even-with-current-paris-pledges/) - Update & Correction: Following further consultation with global and Arctic climate experts, the UN has issued a revised version of Global Linkages–A graphic look at the changing Arctic. The revised report explains winter temperatures over the Arctic Ocean would increase 3 to 5°C by mid-century. - [President Macron and President Xi lead strengthened climate action through cooling efficiency and HFC phase out](https://www.igsd.org/president-macron-and-president-xi-lead-strengthened-climate-action-through-cooling-efficiency-and-hfc-phase-out/) - At their bilateral meeting during President Xi's visit to France in March 2019, both leaders agreed to work together to promote ratification and implementation of the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol and to promote the improvement of energy efficiency standards in the cooling sector. - [Warming Polar Regions Threaten "Climate Chaos"](https://www.igsd.org/poles-threaten-chaos-from-continued-warming/) - To reduce the worst of climate impacts, it is fundamental to understand Earth’s Polar Regions. IGSD’s Primer on Polar Warming examines the current state of the climate in the Poles, projections of change for the future, and highlights fast mitigation strategies to reduce warming, especially through cuts to SLCPs. - [China’s Green and High-Efficiency Cooling Action Plan: A Model for Cooling-Efficiency Ambition](https://www.igsd.org/chinas-green-and-high-efficiency-cooling-action-plan-a-model-for-cooling-efficiency-ambition/) - The China Cooling Action Plan sets forth targets for cooling-product energy efficiency improvement by 2022 and 2030. The Plan also describes key cooling-related priorities for China. IGSD‘s English translation of the China Cooling Action Plan and the associated transmittal Circular is available here. - [India’s EESL and Voltas Protect Climate, Ozone Layer with Bulk Procurement of Super Efficient and Affordable ACs](https://www.igsd.org/igsd-teri-and-nrdc-congratulate-energy-efficiency-services-ltd-eesl-and-voltas-for-affordable-acs-protecting-climate-and-the-ozone-layer/) - India’s EESL will soon begin selling seven-star rated Voltas inverter-air room conditioners (RACs) at a discount price of ₹41,500 (US$604) for a 1.5-tonne unit, which is cheaper than a five-star rated AC. The price reduction is the result of EESL bulk procurement of 50,000 RACs. - [IPCC Warns of Tipping Points from Loss of Arctic Snow and Ice](https://www.igsd.org/ipcc-warns-of-tipping-points-from-loss-of-arctic-snow-and-ice/) - The IPPC's Special Report on Ocean and Cryosphere in a Changing Climate, notes the cryosphere is already experiencing a number of globally consequential tipping elements and climate feedback loops that could permanently alter regional and global climate. In the next few decades, these will include mass loss from glaciers, permafrost thaw, and decline in Arctic snow cover and sea ice. - [Loss of Arctic’s Reflective Sea Ice Will Advance 2°C Guardrail 25 Years](https://www.igsd.org/loss-of-arctics-reflective-sea-ice-will-advance-2c-guardrail-25-years/) - Losing the remaining Arctic sea ice and its reflective power to send incoming solar radiation safely back to space is equivalent to adding one trillion tons of CO2 to the atmosphere, on top of the 2.4 trillion emitted since the Industrial Age. This roughly equates to adding 25 years of additional global CO2 emissions. - [FACT SHEET: Role of Super Pollutants in the Context of the Climate Emergency](https://www.igsd.org/fact-sheets-slcps-cooling-mitigation/) - Taking fast, ambitious action to reduce SLCPs- methane, tropospheric ozone, black carbon, and HFCs— can cut the rate of global warming in half and Arctic warming by up to two-thirds and deliver multiple benefits for sustainable development and human well-being. - [FACT SHEET: HFCs & Efficient Cooling](https://www.igsd.org/fact-sheet-hfcs-efficient-cooling/) - Phasing down HFCs has the potential to avoid up to 0.5°C of warming by the end of the century. Simultaneous improvements in energy efficiency in refrigeration and AC equipment during the transition to low-GWP alternative refrigerants can potentially double the climate benefits of the HFC phasedown of the Kigali Amendment. - [New Federal Legislation Phasing Down HFCs Attracts Bipartisan Support](https://www.igsd.org/new-federal-legislation-phasing-down-hfcs-attracts-bipartisan-support/) - Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) and Sen. Tom Carper (D-Del.) introduced legislation today phasing down the production and consumption of HFCs, potent greenhouse gases widely used in refrigerators and ACs. The bill has drawn significant bipartisan support, given the broad consensus among U.S. manufacturers seeking to capitalize on a transition to low-GWP HFCs. - [Major Nations, Vatican Announce “Rome Declaration” to Use Montreal Protocol and Sustainable Refrigeration to Reduce Food Loss and Cut Greenhouse Gas Emissions](https://www.igsd.org/major-nations-vatican-announce-rome-declaration-to-use-montreal-protocol-and-sustainable-refrigeration-to-reduce-food-loss-and-cut-greenhouse-gas-emissions/) - More than 50 nations agreed today to a declaration to promote innovation of energy efficient solutions and technologies in the development of so-called “cold chains”, cooling and refrigeration, to reduce food loss and waste, and curb resulting powerful greenhouse gas methane and HFC emissions. - [African Ministers of the Environment Call for Fast Climate Action on Super Pollutants](https://www.igsd.org/african-ministers-of-the-environment-call-for-fast-climate-action-on-super-pollutants/) - African ministers of the environment at the 17th session of the African Ministerial Conference on the Environment called for fast action on short lived climate pollutants, methane, tropospheric ozone, black carbon and HFCs for climate action, also urging for rapid ratification of the Montreal Protocol's Kigali Amendment. - [U.S. House of Representatives Introduces HFC Legislation](https://www.igsd.org/house-introduces-hfc-legislation/) - A bipartisan group of lawmakers in the U.S. House of Representatives introduced legislation on January 7th to phase down the production and consumption of HFCs and to transition the U.S. to more climate-friendly substitutes. - [Stephen O. Andersen Earns Haagen-Smit Clean Air Award for Environmental Policy](https://www.igsd.org/stephen-o-andersen-earns-haagen-smit-clean-air-award-for-environmental-policy/) - The California Air Resources Board (CARB) today announced that IGSD’s Dr. Stephen O. Andersen has been selected for the 2019 Haagen-Smit Clean Air Awards for leadership in environmental policy. He is best known as one of the leading figures in crafting and managing the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer but also found success in wilderness river protection, marine mammal conservation and energy efficiency. - [Staying Cool, While Saving the World (and Money)- Winners of 2020 SAE Environmental Excellence in Transportation Award](https://www.igsd.org/staying-cool-while-saving-the-world-and-money/) - Engineers and other experts from three continents, who designed new car air conditioning which saves both the climate and money, have been awarded the prestigious SAE International 2020 Environmental Excellence in Transportation (E2T) Award. - [China Releases Public Comment Version of Amendment to the National Regulation on Administration of Ozone-Depleting Substances](https://www.igsd.org/china-releases-public-comment-version-of-amendment-to-the-national-regulation-on-administration-of-ozone-depleting-substances/) - On May 21, 2020, China’s Ministry of Ecology and Environment (MEE) released a draft regulatory amendment entitled the Regulation on the Administration of Ozone Depleting Substances and Hydrofluorocarbons. Written public comments on the amendment will be received until June 22, 2020, China time. - [New Report Identifies Sources of Environmental Dumping of ACs in African Countries](https://www.igsd.org/new-report-identifies-sources-of-environmental-dumping-of-acs-in-african-countries/) - Environmentally Harmful Dumping of Inefficient and Obsolete Air Conditioners in Africa details the extent of the problem across ten countries in Africa, ultimately providing policymakers with a set of solutions to encourage a transition toward highly-efficient, sustainable cooling technologies. - [Climate-friendly Cooling Could Cut Years of GHG Emissions, Buy Time and Save US$ Trillions: UNEP & IEA](https://www.igsd.org/climate-friendly-cooling-could-cut-years-of-ghg-emissions-buy-time-and-save-us-trillions-un/) - Coordinated international action on energy-efficient, climate-friendly cooling could avoid as much as 460 billion tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions – roughly equal to eight years of global emissions at 2018 levels – over the next four decades. - [How Addressing the Debt Crisis Can Help Avert the Climate Crises and Stabilize Global Economies](https://www.igsd.org/how-addressing-the-debt-crisis-can-help-avert-the-climate-crises-and-stabilize-global-economies/) - Much of the world is awash in unsustainable public and private debt, made significantly worse by the COVID-19 crisis. Efforts to relieve the debt crisis provide opportunities to advance climate protection, health, and economic goals together, specifically through debt-for-climate swaps, building on the success of debt-for-nature swaps. - [Procurement Recommendations for Climate Friendly Refrigerants](https://www.igsd.org/procurement-recommendations-for-climate-friendly-refrigerants/) - Are you ready to take action on avoiding obsolete HFC refrigerants that will be phased down globally under the Montreal Protocol and that are prohibited under various state laws? Use our toolkit! - [Durwood Zaelke and IGSD hail John Kerry’s climate appointment to National Security Council by President-elect Joe Biden](https://www.igsd.org/durwood-zaelke-and-igsd-hail-john-kerrys-climate-appointment-to-national-security-council-by-president-elect-joe-biden/) - John Kerry not only was instrumental in delivering the Paris Agreement, he also was key for winning the Kigali Amendment to phase down HFC refrigerants and avoid up to 0.5°C of warming—the single biggest bite yet taken out of the climate problem. - [Pandemic Relief Bill Mandates HFC Phasedown in Compliance with Montreal Protocol’s Kigali Amendment](https://www.igsd.org/pandemic-relief-bill-mandates-hfc-phasedown-in-compliance-with-montreal-protocols-kigali-amendment/) - In a huge win for the environment and American businesses, the Consolidated Appropriations Act that was signed into law on 27 December 2020 phases down potent greenhouse gases HFCs. Reducing HFC refrigerants could avoid up to 0.5°C of future warming. Climate benefits could double with parallel improvements in energy efficiency of cooling equipment. - [President Biden to Submit Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol for Senate Ratification](https://www.igsd.org/president-biden-to-submit-kigali-amendment-to-the-montreal-protocol-for-senate-ratification/) - President Biden directed the State Dept. to prepare a transmittal package to the Senate for the ratification of the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol to phase down potent HFCs. “President Biden knows the Senate better than any president before him, and will be using the advice and consent process to build bipartisan support for this and future climate action, which the American people are demanding,” said IGSD President, Durwood Zaelke. - [IGSD, Clean Air Task Force, other NGOs call on President Biden to take fast action to cut super climate pollutants](https://www.igsd.org/igsd-clean-air-task-force-other-ngos-call-on-president-biden-to-take-fast-action-to-cut-super-climate-pollutants/) - In addition to putting super pollutants on the agenda of President Biden’s 22 April climate summit, the NGO letter urges the Administration “to make mitigation of super pollutants a priority in all of the international consultations and negotiations that will take place this year”, including COP 26 in Glasgow and the Arctic Council ministerial. - [Reducing Energy Costs by Investing in Efficiency and Clean Renewable Energy Creates More Nationally-Distributed Jobs, Strengthens the Economy, and Protects the Climate](https://www.igsd.org/retire-fossil-fuels-and-their-old-arguments-reducing-energy-costs-by-investing-in-efficiency-and-clean-renewable-energy-creates-more-nationally-distributed-jobs-strengthens-the-economy-and-protects/) - A fresh look at the economics of job creation reveals that investment in energy efficiency, decarbonization, and clean renewable energy creates a larger and more sustainable number of jobs if you consider the construction and manufacturing jobs as well as the many jobs created when the energy bill savings are spent locally. The job and economic advantage is even higher when health care savings and improvements in productivity from clean air are taken into account, according to a new analysis. - [Durwood Zaelke Awarded Beyond Duke Service and Leadership Award](https://www.igsd.org/durwood-zaelke-awarded-beyond-duke-service-and-leadership-award/) - Duke University honored Durwood Zaelke, a 1972 graduate of Duke Law School, with its 2020 Beyond Duke Service and Leadership Award in an online ceremony. Watch the virtual award ceremony here. - [China to Accept Kigali Amendment on HFCs and Strengthen Action on Other Non-CO2 Greenhouse Gases](https://www.igsd.org/china-to-accept-kigali-amendment-on-hfcs-and-strengthen-action-on-other-non-co2-greenhouse-gases/) - In a virtual summit with President Macron of France and Chancellor Merkel of Germany, Chinese President Xi Jinping announced China will accept the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer. President Xi also mentioned China’s intention to strengthen the control of non-CO2 greenhouse gases. - [To Address Near-Term Warming, U.S. and China Vow to Cooperate on HFCs, Methane, and Other Non-CO2 Greenhouse Gases](https://www.igsd.org/to-address-near-term-warming-u-s-and-china-vow-to-cooperate-on-hfcs-methane-and-other-non-co2-greenhouse-gases/) - At the conclusion of their 17 April 2021 bilateral meeting, U.S. Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry and China Special Envoy for Climate Change Xie Zhenhua pledged near-term actions to address the climate crisis. Countries pledge to strengthen Paris Agreement, implement the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol, and reduce emissions under other sectoral agreements. - [EPA Finalizes Rule on Safer HFC Alternatives Under SNAP Program](https://www.igsd.org/epa-finalizes-rule-on-safer-hfc-alternatives-under-snap-program-2/) - The United States EPA took an important step for climate protection today by finalizing Significant New Alternatives Policy program rule 23 (SNAP 23). This rule approves several low global warming potential refrigerants for split system air conditioners and heat pumps, including R-32. - [IGSD co-authors new book on super climate pollutants](https://www.igsd.org/igsd-co-authors-new-book-on-super-climate-pollutants/) - Durwood Zaelke, IGSD President, and Stephen O. Andersen, IGSD Director of Research, joined long-term collaborator Alan Miller to present IGSD’s work on short-lived in an accessible book designed for both citizens and policymakers. Resetting Our Future: Cut Super Climate Pollutants Now! describes the ozone treaty’s urgent lessons for speeding climate action and issues a call to action to cut warming by half in the next decade. Additional information, including the Table of Contents, here. - [Cutting Methane Key to Keeping Earth From Warming Itself Beyond Human Control](https://www.igsd.org/cutting-methane-key-to-keeping-earth-from-warming-itself-beyond-human-control/) - Aggressively cutting methane emissions is the fastest and most effective way to reduce the rate of warming and keep the global average temperature from breaching the 1.5°C barrier above preindustrial levels, according to the Global Methane Assessment released today by UNEP and the CCAC. The Assessment calculates that available mitigation measures can cut emissions from human activities by 45 percent and avoid nearly 0.3 °C of warming by the 2040s. - [China Announces Plans for Domestic Regulatory and Policy Action on HFCs](https://www.igsd.org/china-announces-plans-for-domestic-regulatory-and-policy-action-on-hfcs/) - At its monthly press conference, the China Ministry of Ecology and Environment announced plans for domestic regulatory and policy action to implement the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer. - [Protecting Carbon Sinks Is Critical for Addressing Climate Emergency](https://www.igsd.org/protecting-carbon-sinks-is-critical-for-addressing-climate-emergency/) - In its 14th Five-Year Forestry and Grassland Protection and Development Plan China lays out targets for forestry and grassland conservation highlighting the importance of natural carbon sinks and biodiversity. - [China Takes Steps to Address HFC-23 Emissions in Advance of International Ozone Day](https://www.igsd.org/china-takes-steps-to-address-hfc-23-emissions-in-advance-of-international-ozone-day/) - China’s Ministry of Ecology and Environment released the Circular on Controlling the Emissions of HFC-23 By-products in advance of World Ozone Day. The Circular was issued as part of China’s efforts to implement the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer. - [Statement on the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer](https://www.igsd.org/statement-on-the-international-day-for-the-preservation-of-the-ozone-layer/) - As the world enters a crucial phase in the battle to combat climate change, International Ozone Day reminds us that the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer is not only saving the stratospheric ozone layer and keeping us safe from harmful ultraviolet radiation but is also doing more than any other agreement to slow catastrophic global warming. As we celebrate the achievements of this planet-saving treaty, we also need to realize how much remains to be done. - [Stephen O. Andersen Earns Future of Life Award for Efforts Protecting Ozone Layer](https://www.igsd.org/stephen-o-andersen-earns-future-of-life-award-for-efforts-protecting-ozone-layer/) - The Future of Life Institute today announced that IGSD’s Director of Research Dr. Stephen O. Andersen has been selected for the Future of Life Award, alongside Dr. Susan Solomon and late Joseph Farman, for their dedicated efforts to protect the stratospheric ozone layer. Their efforts are recognized for helping make the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer, signed in 1987, the most successful international treaty in history. - [U.S.- EU Launch Pledge to Cut Super Climate Pollutant Methane](https://www.igsd.org/u-s-eu-pledge-fast-cuts-to-super-climate-pollutant-methane/) - The United States and the European Union launched a global pledge to reduce methane emissions by nearly a third by 2030, as part of a broader effort to increase ambition to address the climate crisis. The launch was announced at the Major Economies Forum on Energy and Climate hosted today by President Biden. This is the first time heads of State have pledged fast action to cut super climate pollutants to meet the 1.5°C temperature target of the Paris Agreement. - [Are you ready to take action on climate friendly refrigerants?](https://www.igsd.org/are-you-ready-to-take-action-on-climate-friendly-refrigerants/) - Download our guide to learn how to purchase the best products and avoid obsolete HFC refrigerants that are being phased down under the American Innovation & Manufacturing Act in the U.S. and the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol internationally. Developed by the Sustainable Purchasing Leadership Council, in partnership with IGSD, the Guide to Climate Friendly Refrigerant Management and Procurement, 2021 edition, can help select affordable, energy-efficient refrigeration and cooling equipment that uses next-generation refrigerants that are more climate-friendly. - [R&D Needed for Removing Methane from the Atmosphere](https://www.igsd.org/rd-needed-for-removing-methane-from-the-atmosphere/) - Learning how to remove methane from the atmosphere would complement strategies to mitigate methane emissions from anthropogenic sources. Methane removal technologies would be especially important because around 40% of atmospheric methane originates from natural sources, and because some anthropogenic emissions are difficult to reduce. - [Meltdown: The Earth Without Glaciers](https://www.igsd.org/meltdown-the-earth-without-glaciers/) - New book, Meltdown: The Earth Without Glaciers, out now. "Taillant masterfully takes us on a journey through the profound changes our cryosphere is suffering from climate change and how melting glaciers that are vanishing around the world will not only destroy delicate ecosystems...but how they will radically change how we live on Earth in ways not yet imagined. His unique capacity to bring together media, science, politics, and society in understandable prose offers a powerful wake-up call to our deepening climate crisis.” - [U.S., EU Expand Support for Fast Cuts to Methane](https://www.igsd.org/u-s-eu-expand-support-for-fast-cuts-to-methane/) - The U.S. and EU announced today that an additional 24 countries have committed to join their Global Methane Pledge unveiled jointly in September. The pledge is now backed by 9 of the top 20 methane-emitting countries. The entire group accounts for 60% of the global economy. John Kerry and Franz Timmermans encouraged those countries already joining to recruit other countries to join the pledge, with a goal of at least 100 countries by COP 26 in Glasgow. - [China Announces Plans to Further Implement Kigali Amendment to Phasedown HFCs](https://www.igsd.org/china-announces-plans-to-further-implement-kigali-amendment-to-phasedown-hfcs/) - China’s Ministry of Ecology and Environment (MEE) announced at a press briefing that it will issue additional HFC-related policies and measures to ensure compliance with the requirements of the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol on Substances That Deplete the Ozone Layer. - [China Details Plans for Achieving Carbon-Peaking and Carbon-Neutrality Goals](https://www.igsd.org/briefing-china-details-plans-for-achieving-carbon-peaking-and-carbon-neutrality-goals/) - On October 22 and 24, 2021, China issued two policy documents detailing its plans for achieving its carbon-peaking and carbon-neutrality goals: (1) the Working Guidance for Carbon Dioxide Peaking and Carbon Neutrality in Full and Faithful Implementation of the New Development Philosophy; and (2) the Action Plan for Achieving Carbon Peaking Before 2030. General information and details relevant to the mitigation of short-lived climate pollutants, including methane, are provided below for each of the documents. - [New Report Finds City-wide Adoption of Smart Surfaces in California Can Improve Air Quality and Public Health, Cut Urban Heat, and Support Equitable Development](https://www.igsd.org/new-report-finds-city-wide-adoption-of-smart-surfaces-in-california-can-improve-air-quality-and-public-health-cut-urban-heat-and-support-equitable-development/) - A groundbreaking report by a coalition of leading national health, city policy, energy, planning, equity, and architecture organizations demonstrates that Smart Surfaces are very cost-effective in cutting soaring city temperatures, slowing climate change, and enhancing health and urban equity in hot dry climates. - [Ahead of COP 26, China Submits Update to NDC and Mid-Century Development Strategy](https://www.igsd.org/ahead-of-cop-26-china-submits-update-to-ndc-and-mid-century-development-strategy/) - China submitted its updated Nationally Determined Contributions and the Mid-Century, Long-Term Low Greenhouse Gas Emission Development Strategy (Mid-Century Strategy) to the Secretariat of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. The key targets provided in the updated NDCs and Mid-Century Strategy are consistent with the provisions in two policy documents that China issued on 22 and 24 October 2021: the Working Guidance for Carbon Dioxide Peaking and Carbon Neutrality in Full and Faithful Implementation of the New Development Philosophy (22 Oct. 2021); and (2) the Action Plan for Achieving Carbon Peaking Before 2030 (24 Oct. 2021). - [China Announces Next Steps on Methane Emissions Control During the 14th Five-Year Period](https://www.igsd.org/china-announces-next-steps-on-methane-emissions-control-during-the-14th-five-year-period/) - China’s Ministry of Ecology and Environment announced next steps for methane emissions control during the 14th Five-Year period (2021-2025), at its monthly press conference in November 2021. These steps are intended to support China’s targets for achieving net-zero emissions of all greenhouse gases by 2060 and implement the U.S.-China Joint Glasgow Declaration on Enhancing Climate Action in the 2020s. - [China Releases White Paper and Convenes Press Conference on Climate Change Ahead of COP26](https://www.igsd.org/china-releases-white-paper-and-convenes-press-conference-on-climate-change-ahead-of-cop26/) - China released a white paper entitled Responding to Climate Change: China's Policies and Actions with examples of the country’s actions and achievements to date in addressing climate change, in preparation for COP26. Highlights include acceptance of the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol and the establishment of an alliance to control methane emissions in oil and gas enterprises. - [China Guides Further Action on Pollution and Climate Change, Strengthening Precedent for Ambition in Cutting Non-CO2 Climate Pollutants](https://www.igsd.org/briefing-china-guides-further-action-on-pollution-and-climate-change-strengthening-precedent-for-ambition-in-cutting-non-co2-climate-pollutants/) - On 2 November 2021, The Central Committee of the Chinese Communist Party and the State Council issued an important document entitled Opinions on Strengthening the Battle for Pollution Prevention and Control (“Opinions”). Why this is important: The Opinions are another in a growing list of policy documents that China’s national policy authorities have issued. Documents - [China’s Policy Opportunity to Avoid Dumping of Obsolete Cooling Equipment and Support Development and Climate Goals](https://www.igsd.org/chinas-policy-opportunity-to-avoid-dumping-of-obsolete-cooling-equipment-and-support-development-and-climate-goals/) - An Opportunity That Should Not Be Missed: Applying Chinese Policy That Promotes Efficient Air Conditioning to Countries That Need It (Sustainable Development Law & Policy, Spring 2021) illustrates a new climate strategy of applying China’s Same-Line Policy to exported ACs. The article is co-authored by IGSD attorneys Xiaopu Sun and Richard Ferris, in collaboration with Professor Houfu Yan from Beijing Normal University and Professor Shekun Wang from China Northwest University. - [NGO Statement in Response to Draft COP26 Agreement](https://www.igsd.org/ngo-statement-in-response-to-draft-cop26-agreement/) - Alongside 11 NGOs, we call on negotiators to elevate methane mitigation in in the final CMA decision. See our statement. - [China’s Industry Green Development Plan Incorporates Actions to Address Non-CO2 Climate Pollutants](https://www.igsd.org/chinas-industry-green-development-plan-incorporates-actions-to-address-non-co2-climate-pollutants/) - On 15 November 2021, the China Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) issued the 14th Five-Year Plan on Industry Green Development (“Plan”). The Plan provides key targets, action items, and mechanisms for the green transformation of China’s industrial sectors. These sectors will play a significant role in achieving China’s goals of peaking carbon emissions - [Dr. Gabrielle Dreyfus, IGSD Chief Scientist, Named to 2021 Environment+Energy Leader 100 Honoree List](https://www.igsd.org/dr-gabrielle-dreyfus-igsd-chief-scientist-named-to-2021-environmentenergy-leader-100-honoree-list/) - Environment+Energy Leader announced today that IGSD’s Chief Scientist Dr. Gabrielle Dreyfus has been named to the 2021 Environment+Energy Leader 100, recognizing environment and energy “doers” who break trail in creating new solutions, programs, platforms, best practices, and products to help achieve greater success in commercial and industrial environment and energy management. - [Controlling Chemical Feedstocks under the Montreal Protocol Will Protect Oceans and Atmosphere](https://www.igsd.org/controlling-chemical-feedstocks-under-the-montreal-protocol-will-protect-oceans-and-atmosphere/) - Tightening feedstock controls under the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer will provide substantial environmental benefits to the ozone layer and climate while reducing plastic pollution and persistent organic pollutants, concludes a provocative new paper published today in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. - [Kristen N. Taddonio, IGSD Senior Climate and Energy Advisor, Recognized with 2021 Leadership in Sustainable Purchasing Award](https://www.igsd.org/kristen-n-taddonio-igsd-senior-climate-and-energy-advisor-recognized-with-2021-leadership-in-sustainable-purchasing-award/) - The award recognizes “an individual whose vision, leadership, and dedicated effort have been fundamental to the advancement of the sustainable purchasing movement”. - [China’s Zero-Waste Cities Plan to Mitigate Methane and Other Waste-Sector Emissions During the 14th Five-Year Period](https://www.igsd.org/chinas-zero-waste-cities-plan-to-mitigate-methane-and-other-waste-sector-emissions-during-the-14th-five-year-period/) - On 15 December 2021, the China Ministry of Ecology and Environment (MEE) issued the 14th Five-Year Work Plan on the Construction of Zero-Waste Cities, together with another 17 national ministries and agencies. The Work Plan identifies the sectors, timeline, and process for building 100 zero-waste cities by 2025. - [Max Planck Encyclopedias of International Law - Ozone Layer, International Protection](https://www.igsd.org/max-planck-encyclopedias-of-international-law-ozone-layer-international-protection/) - The Max Planck Encyclopedias of International Law’s updated Ozone Layer, International Protection (2021) entry, by IGSD’s Dr. Stephen O. Andersen, Durwood Zaelke, Kristen N Taddonio, Richard Ferris, and Dr. Nancy J. Sherman, details the ins and outs of what is widely considered the world’s most successful environmental treaty, the 1987 Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer. The entry provides detailed analysis of the Protocol’s objectives, chemicals covered, adjustments and amendments, assessment panels, and many other aspects. The entry is available for open access. - [China Issues Policy to Control New Production Capacity for Selected HFCs](https://www.igsd.org/china-issues-policy-to-control-new-production-capacity-for-selected-hfcs/) - On 28 December 2021, China’s Ministry of Ecology and Environment, National Development and Reform Commission, and Ministry of Industry and Information Technology jointly released a new policy document entitled the Circular on Strictly Controlling the First Batch of HFC Production Construction Projects. According to the Circular, as of 1 January 2022, it is prohibited to construct or expand the production facilities for five categories of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), including HFC-32, HFC-134a, HFC-125, HFC-143a and HFC-245fa, for controlled usages such as refrigerants and blowing agents. - [China Moves a Step Closer to Addressing Climate and Environmental Impacts of Overseas Projects and Exported Products](https://www.igsd.org/china-moves-a-step-closer-to-addressing-climate-and-environmental-impacts-of-overseas-projects-and-exported-products/) - China’s Ministry of Ecology and Environment and Ministry of Commerce jointly released the Guidelines on Ecological and Environmental Protection of Foreign Investment and Construction Projects. The 2022 Guidelines recommend environmental protection practices for China’s overseas investment and construction projects. In particular, the Guidelines aim to reduce pollution, mitigate climate change, and protect biodiversity in China’s overseas investment countries and markets, including those in Belt and Road Initiative countries. - [Status of Patents and Legal Challenges: Patents Related to The use of HFO-1234yf in Auto Air Conditioning](https://www.igsd.org/status-of-patents-and-legal-challenges-patents-related-to-the-use-of-hfo-1234yf-in-auto-air-conditioning/) - A new paper reviewes the status of patents granted on HFO-1234yf in automotive air conditioning in the US, Europe, and China, covering the largest automotive manufacturing regions in the world, primarily focusing on patents on the use of HFO-1234yf in automobiles, as opposed to patents on the manufacture of HFO-1234yf. This paper updates and expands upon a preceding publication co-authored by Stephen Seidel of the Center for Climate and Energy Solutions and Christine R. Ethridge of Eckert Seamans Cherin & Mellott LLC, published in July 2016 and titled “Status of Legal Challenges: Patents Related to the Use of HFO-1234yf in Auto Air Conditioning”. - [China’s Plan on Energy Conservation and Emission Reduction Guides Action to Address non-CO2 Climate Pollutants](https://www.igsd.org/chinas-plan-on-energy-conservation-and-emission-reduction-guides-action-to-address-non-co2-climate-pollutants/) - China’s State Council issued the 14th Five-Year Comprehensive Work Plan on Energy Conservation and Emission Reduction. The Energy Work Plan reflects key actions to implement the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025) for National Economic and Social Development and Long-Range Objectives Through the Year 2035, adopted on 11 March 2021. This Work Plan will serve as a primary nationwide guide for China’s actions to address non-CO2 climate pollutants and achieve the green transformation of its economy. - [Burning trees for energy is not a climate solution](https://www.igsd.org/burning-trees-for-energy-is-not-a-climate-solution/) - Burning trees and other forest biomass for energy is contrary to climate mitigation, biodiversity protection, and environmental justice goals. Governments must stop promoting climate-damaging forest bioenergy and instead invest in strategies to decrease energy demand, deploy low-emissions energy like solar and wind, and protect forests. These are the conclusions of a new article published in the Vermont Journal of Environmental Law. - [IEA Global Methane Tracker Finds Emissions Undercounted and Rising](https://www.igsd.org/iea-global-methane-tracker-finds-emissions-undercounted-and-rising/) - According to the latest analysis released by the International Energy Agency today super polluting global methane emissions are significantly undercounted and on the rise. The 2022 update of the IEA Global Methane Tracker emphasizes once again that methane mitigation presents the biggest, fastest and cheapest opportunity for climate action in the near term, and is critical for keeping the 1.5 °C temperature target in sight. - [Ozone Community Recognized as Critical to Making ‘Great Things Happen’](https://www.igsd.org/ozone-community-recognized-as-critical-to-making-great-things-happen/) - The success of the 1987 Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer has hinged on a combination of factors, among them the purposeful and effective collaboration within the Ozone community, recognized in a new book out today, Partnering: Forge the Deep Connections That Make Great Things Happen by Jean Oelwang. - [China Unveils Policy Guidance Aimed at Improving the Environmental and Climate Performance of Belt and Road Initiative Projects and Products](https://www.igsd.org/china-unveils-policy-guidance-aimed-at-improving-the-environmental-and-climate-performance-of-belt-and-road-initiative-projects-and-products/) - China’s National Development and Reform Commission, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, and Ministry of Commerce jointly released the Opinions on Promoting the Green Development of the “Belt and Road Initiative”. The Opinions are the latest in a number of China policy developments aimed at curbing the environmental and climate-forcing impacts of Chinese overseas projects and exports. - [Don’t “Clean Up Your Country at the Expense of Our Country”](https://www.igsd.org/dont-clean-up-your-country-at-the-expense-of-our-country/) - A new paper published today in the Duke Law & Policy Forum reveals the burdens developing countries like Ghana face as exporting countries transition to more efficient and climate-friendly cooling products. It underscores opportunities to strengthen the Montreal Protocol to make good on its mission to protect stratospheric ozone and climate while fostering environmental justice. - [IPCC AR6 WGIII Mitigation of Climate Change Reaffirms Central Role of Methane Mitigation to Keep the Climate Safe](https://www.igsd.org/ipcc-6th-assessment-report-working-group-iii-mitigation-of-climate-change-reaffirms-central-role-of-methane-mitigation-to-keep-the-climate-safe/) - The report reaffirms the only mitigation pathways that keep 1.5°C warming within reach with limited overshoot require cutting methane by at least 30 percent by the end of this decade. This is the goal of the Global Methane Pledge launched by the US and the EU last November at COP26 and already endorsed by over 111 countries. - [IGSD and Collaborators Recognized for Climate Work in Washington DC's 500 Most Influential People](https://www.igsd.org/igsd-and-collaborators-recognized-for-climate-work-in-washington-dcs-500-most-influential-people/) - IGSD President Durwood Zaelke and IGSD media strategist Paul Bledsoe were recognized among Washington DC's 500 most influential people shaping policy. Durwood and Paul were recognized for their efforts in climate and environment alongside 14 others. - [Time to Broaden Strategy to Avert Catastrophic Climate Change](https://www.igsd.org/time-to-broaden-strategy-to-avert-catastrophic-climate-change/) - Slashing emissions of carbon dioxide, by itself, cannot prevent catastrophic global warming. But a new study concludes that a strategy that simultaneously reduces emissions of other largely neglected climate pollutants would cut the rate of global warming in half and give the world a fighting chance to keep the climate safe for humanity. - [Learn from the Master: Environmental Law and Diplomacy](https://www.igsd.org/5748-2/) - 8 June 2022 – In his latest book, career lawyer, diplomat, and negotiator Donald Kaniaru released a collection of published and unpublished papers from his career spanning works from the 1970s to the 2020s. The book, Environmental Law and Diplomacy, offers unique insights into the world's collective struggle to slow environmental destruction while also pursuing equitable and sustainable development for all. - [The US - EU Announce Critical Implementation of the Global Methane Pledge for Oil & Gas](https://www.igsd.org/the-us-eu-announce-critical-implementation-of-the-global-methane-pledge-for-oil-gas/) - At the Major Economies Forum on Energy and Climate (MEF) hosted by President Biden the United States, the European Union, and 11 countries announced the Global Methane Pledge Energy Pathway to catalyze methane emissions reductions in the oil and gas sector, advancing both climate progress and energy security. - [China’s new Urban and Rural Development Carbon-Peaking Plan contributes to energy-efficiency improvements and measures to curb emissions of non-CO2 greenhouse gases](https://www.igsd.org/chinas-new-urban-and-rural-development-carbon-peaking-plan-contributes-to-energy-efficiency-improvements-and-measures-to-curb-emissions-of-non-co2-greenhouse-gases/) - China Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development and National Development and Reform Commission jointly released the Implementation Plan for Carbon Peaking in Urban and Rural Development (hereinafter referred to as “the Plan”). The Plan guides China’s measures to peak carbon emissions before 2030, including actions to reduce the emissions of non-CO2 greenhouse gases, including methane. - [To Reduce Temperature in the Near-Term Two Strategies Beyond CO2 Are Key](https://www.igsd.org/to-reduce-temperature-in-the-near-term-two-strategies-beyond-co2-are-key/) - Curtailing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions dominates the focus of climate mitigation efforts. However, the latest research has confirmed carbon dioxide mitigation alone has only marginal results in near-term temperature reduction. A new study, co-authored by the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Institutes for Science and Development, and the Institute for Governance & Sustainable Development, has identified the two most effective mitigation strategies to limit near-term warming beyond CO2: 1) Reducing the other non-CO2 super climate pollutants— hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), methane, and black carbon; and 2) Promoting targeted nature-based solutions (NbS) that safeguard and enhance irrecoverable carbon sinks, such as intact forests, peatlands, and mangrove forests. - [China announces actions to promote the development and utilization of coalbed methane](https://www.igsd.org/china-announces-actions-to-promote-the-development-and-utilization-of-coalbed-methane/) - The China National Energy Administration (NEA) has highlighted a number of actions that China will take to promote the development and utilization of coalbed methane. The actions were described in a document posted on the NEA website, available here. These actions are expected to be further incorporated into and implemented through national policies and plans. - [Protecting the Ozone Layer, 35th Anniversary - Book](https://www.igsd.org/protecting-the-ozone-layer-35th-anniversary-book/) - In celebration of International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer, the United Nations Environment Program Ozone Secretariat announced the release of a new book celebrating the 35th Anniversary of the Montreal Protocol. The book highlights the Montreal Protocol’s successes and innovation during its first 35 years and inspires new ambition to strengthen the protection of stratospheric ozone as well as the climate before Earth passes dangerous tipping points that could cause irreversible and abrupt climate change. - [US Senate Votes to Ratify Kigali Amendment to Phase Down Super Polluting HFCs](https://www.igsd.org/us-senate-votes-to-ratify-kigali-amendment-to-phase-down-super-polluting-hfcs/) - In a major victory for the planet, the US Senate voted to ratify the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol to phase down super climate pollutants called hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), used primarily as refrigerants in air conditioners and other cooling equipment. The Kigali Amendment needed the approval of a two-thirds super-majority of the chamber. It is the first climate treaty to clear the Senate in decades. - [New Report: Curbing 90 Billion Tons of Super-Pollutant Emissions](https://www.igsd.org/new-report-curbing-90-billion-tons-of-super-pollutant-emissions/) - Minimizing refrigerant leaks and maximizing end-of-life recovery and reclamation can avoid fluorocarbon emissions equivalent to 90 billion metric tons of CO2 this century and help avoid climate catastrophe, according to a new report released today by IGSD,, the EIA, and NRDC. The report, The 90 Billion Ton Opportunity: Lifecycle Refrigerant Management, lays out this significant opportunity for federal and state policymakers, major corporations, and equipment owners and operators. - [COP27 Climate Summit: IGSD experts available to comment](https://www.igsd.org/cop27-climate-summit-igsd-experts-available-to-comment/) - Climate emissions are accelerating and the 1.5°C guardrail for keeping the climate relatively safe could be crossed within a decade or less. At COP27 governments must commit to speed and scale up climate action to avoid the most warming in the shortest period of time and to protect the most vulnerable people and ecosystems. Their action this November will decide the fate of billions of people, for years to come. IGSD experts are available to comment. - [Protecting the Ozone Layer, 35th Anniversary Book – Available for Purchase](https://www.igsd.org/protecting-the-ozone-layer-35th-anniversary-book-available-for-purchase/) - On 31 October 2022, at the 34th Meeting of the Parties to the Montreal Protocol in Montreal, the United Nations Environment Program Ozone Secretariat and the Institute for Governance & Sustainable Development (IGSD) launched the celebratory Montreal Protocol 35th Anniversary Book Protecting the Ozone Layer. The electronic version (Kindle Edition) of the book has now become available for purchase on Amazon. - [China Announces Progress in Methane Monitoring and Evaluation In Preparation for the Release of Its National Action Plan on Methane](https://www.igsd.org/china-announces-progress-in-methane-monitoring-and-evaluation-in-preparation-for-the-release-of-its-national-action-plan-on-methane/) - During its January 2023 press conference, China’s Ministry of Ecology and Environment (MEE) highlighted progress on carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas monitoring and evaluation pilot projects aimed at answering critical questions on “what to measure,” “where to measure,” and “how to measure.” - [Inter-American Court of Human Rights Will Issue Advisory Opinion to Guide States on their Obligations to Address the Climate Emergency](https://www.igsd.org/inter-american-court-of-human-rights-will-issue-advisory-opinion-to-guide-states-on-their-obligations-to-address-the-climate-emergency/) - The Inter-American Court of Human Rights agreed to the request to issue an advisory opinion on Climate Emergency and Human Rights under Article 64(1) of the American Convention on Human Rights. The request for the advisory opinion, submitted to the Court on 9 January 2023 by the Republic of Chile and the Republic of Colombia, seeks to clarify the scope of State obligations to respond to the climate emergency within the framework of international human rights law. - [Policy Developments Highlight China’s Efforts to Balance Energy Security and Carbon Neutrality Goals in the Energy Sector](https://www.igsd.org/policy-developments-highlight-chinas-efforts-to-balance-energy-security-and-carbon-neutrality-goals-in-the-energy-sector/) - In 2020, China announced the goals to peak its carbon emissions by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2060. Subsequently, in 2021 and 2022, severe power shortage incidents heightened China’s concerns over energy security. China has since issued a number of policy documents aiming to address the balance between energy security and its carbon emissions and carbon neutrality goals. This briefing aims to assist IGSD partners and climate champions in understanding the dynamics of reaching China’s climate goals. - [Fast Action Climate Mitigation Is Urgently Needed to Address China’s Rising Temperatures and Increasing Weather Extremes](https://www.igsd.org/fast-action-climate-mitigation-is-urgently-needed-to-address-chinas-rising-temperatures-and-increasing-weather-extremes/) - In May 2023, China’s Ministry of Ecology and Environment released its annual Ecological and Environmental Status Bulletin for 2022. The Environmental Bulletin provides a comprehensive overview of China’s ecological and environmental quality over the past year. - [China Releases List to Guide and Promote Low-Global Warming Potential Alternatives to Ozone-Depleting Substances](https://www.igsd.org/china-releases-list-to-guide-and-promote-low-global-warming-potential-alternatives-to-ozone-depleting-substances/) - China released a List of Recommended Alternatives to Ozone-Depleting Substances to guide and promote low-global warming potential alternatives to ozone-depleting substances (ODS). Although the List is not legally enforceable, it does play a major role in encouraging and supporting scientific research, technical development, and market deployment of ODS alternatives in China, consistent with China’s obligations under the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer. - [International Institute of Refrigeration Awards Gustav Lorentzen Medal to Dr. Yunho Hwang](https://www.igsd.org/international-institute-of-refrigeration-awards-gustav-lorentzen-medal-to-dr-yunho-hwang/) - Dr. Yunho Hwang was awarded the 2023 Gustav Lorentzen Medal by the International Institute of Refrigeration (IIR) for outstanding and original achievements in academic or industrial research, innovation, and development of climate-friendly cooling technology. - [Remembering Douglas Varchol](https://www.igsd.org/remembering-douglas-varchol/) - October 2, 1951 - July 13, 2023 Douglas Varchol, an American filmmaker whose documentary works educated and urged action by government and civil society leaders to support social and environmental justice, died 13 July 2023 in Los Angeles. - [IGSD and collaborators recognized for ozone layer protection at New York Climate Week](https://www.igsd.org/igsd-and-collaborators-recognized-for-ozone-layer-protection-at-new-york-climate-week/) - At the launch of Virgin Unite Foundation’s new ‘planetary guardians’ initiative, the guardians took a moment to acknowledge and celebrate the Montreal Protocol as the shining example of how it is possible to come together to protect our planet. - [Report Exposes Widespread Dumping of Inefficient, Climate-Damaging Air Conditioners with Obsolete Refrigerants](https://www.igsd.org/report-exposes-widespread-dumping-of-inefficient-climate-damaging-air-conditioners-with-obsolete-refrigerants/) - A new report warns that multinational companies are exporting millions of inefficient air conditioners to Southeast Asia, taking advantage of loopholes in national laws and regulations. Because these units contain high global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants, this appliance dumping contributes to climate change, strains national energy grids, and burdens consumers with higher energy bills. - [China Releases Methane Emissions Control Action Plan](https://www.igsd.org/china-releases-methane-emissions-control-action-plan/) - Today China released its long-awaited Methane Emissions Control Action Plan (“Action Plan”). The Action Plan was jointly issued by the Ministry of Ecology and Environment (MEE) together with ten other national ministries and agencies. This reflects the extensive interagency review that MEE had to undertake to secure State Council approval for release of the Plan. - [U.S.-China Sunnylands Statement Shows Renewed U.S.-China Climate Commitment Ahead of COP 28](https://www.igsd.org/u-s-china-sunnylands-statement-shows-renewed-u-s-china-climate-commitment-ahead-of-cop-28/) - On 14 November 2023, the U.S.-China agreed on the Sunnylands Statement on Enhancing Cooperation to Address the Climate Crisis. The Sunnylands Statement is a significant announcement showing renewed U.S. and China commitment to climate leadership ahead of COP 28 and beyond, including hosting with the UAE a Methane and Non-CO2 Greenhouse Gases (GHGs) Summit at COP 28. - [Investing in Sustainable Cooling to Protect the Planet](https://www.igsd.org/investing-in-sustainable-cooling-to-protect-the-planet/) - The Montreal Protocol is widely hailed as the world’s most effective environmental treaty, protecting both the stratospheric ozone layer and the global climate. Lesser known is that its financial mechanism, the MLF, is the world’s most efficient source of funding for climate mitigation, costing just $0.07 to $1 per tonne of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂e) mitigated, according to a new report. - [EPA Accepts Petitions to Eliminate Super Polluting HFCs](https://www.igsd.org/epa-accepts-petitions-to-eliminate-super-polluting-hfcs/) - By accepting petitions to phase out HFCs submitted under the technology transition authority of the American Innovation and Manufacturing Act, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is taking overdue action to stop the use of super polluting hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) in refrigeration and air conditioning, aerosols, and foams sectors where safer alternatives are available. - [Ten Solutions for Carbon Neutrality and Climate Stability](https://www.igsd.org/ten-solutions-for-carbon-neutrality-and-climate-stability/) - On the heels of the fifth anniversary of Pope Francis’ environmental encyclical Laudato Si, a new book born from a series of works that lead to the encyclical proposes best available climate solutions from around the world. - [Prestigious Sustainable Development Prize Awarded to Pioneering Climate Scientists Ramanathan and Hansen](https://www.igsd.org/prestigious-sustainable-development-prize-awarded-to-pioneering-climate-scientists-ramanathan-and-hansen/) - Today the Tang Prize for Sustainable Development 2018 was awarded to Professor V. Ramanathan and Dr. James Hansen recognizing their pioneering work on climate change and its impact on the sustainability of the earth. - [Arctic States Commit to Reduce Black Carbon Soot Up to 33 percent](https://www.igsd.org/arctic-states-commit-to-reduce-black-carbon-soot-up-to-33-per-cent/) - Arctic Council Ministers from Canada, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Russia, and the United States set for the first time a collective goal to reduce black carbon emissions in the Arctic Region and stressed “the need for global action to reduce both long-lived greenhouse gases and short-lived climate pollutants” in the Arctic. - [North American Leaders’ Double-Barreled Climate Strategy](https://www.igsd.org/north-american-leaders-double-barreled-climate-strategy/) - Today President Obama, Prime Minister Trudeau, and President Pena Nieto agreed to an aggressive double-barreled climate strategy, committing to cut both carbon dioxide, by moving to 50% clean energy sources by 2025, and the short-lived super pollutants. - [Modi Joins Obama for Fast Implementation of Paris Agreement](https://www.igsd.org/modi-joins-obama-for-fast-implementation-of-paris-agreement/) - Today Prime Minister Modi and President Obama took another big step forward as partners in the battle to slow climate change making a down payment by cutting HFCs under Montreal Protocol. - [G7 Commits to Cut Near-term Warming by Reducing Super Pollutants](https://www.igsd.org/g7-commits-to-cut-near-term-warming-by-reducing-super-pollutants/) - The May 27th G7 leaders’ declaration committed for the first time to cutting near-term warming by phasing down short-lived super pollutants black carbon, methane, and HFCs. The leaders also committed to amending the Montreal Protocol in 2016 to phase down HFCs. - [Dr. Mostafa Tolba, Father of Montreal Protocol, Dies at 93](https://www.igsd.org/dr-mostafa-tolba-father-of-montreal-protocol-dies-at-93/) - Dr. Tolba was a brilliant Egyptian scientist and forceful diplomat who led the United Nations Environment Program for 17 years starting in 1975. “He knew when to push and when to pull and when to lock negotiators in a room until they found a solution to the planet’s early environmental problems,” said Durwood Zaelke - [Montreal Protocol Amendment Essential to Meeting Paris Climate Commitment](https://www.igsd.org/montreal-protocol-amendment-essential-to-meeting-paris-climate-commitment/) - According to a new report by the Rhodium Group, implementing an HFC amendment under a “newly reinvigorated Montreal Protocol” will help boost the gap between the US emissions reduction pledge and its trajectory under current policies. - [COP21 Update: Military’s Role in Post-Paris Pivot to Fast Action](https://www.igsd.org/cop21-update-militarys-role-in-post-paris-pivot-to-fast-action/) - The Global Military Advisory Council on Climate Change (GMACCC) underscored the need for fast action on climate change, emphasizing the relation to global security and calling for militaries to act as key contributors to climate change preparedness at the the Paris climate conference today. - [COP21 Update: Climate and Clean Air Coalition Launches 5-Year Plan to Avoid 0.6C Warming by 2050](https://www.igsd.org/cop21-update-climate-and-clean-air-coalition-launches-5-year-plan-to-avoid-0-6c-warming-by-2050/) - Ministers of the 50 Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC) member countries launched a 5-year action plan today to cut short-lived climate pollutants, an effort that can avoid 0.6°C warming globally by 2050. Fast action to reduce short-lived climate pollutants “is an urgent, effective and pragmatic complement to aggressive mitigation of carbon dioxide and other long-lived greenhouse gases,” read the Paris Communique released at the Paris, COP21 meeting today. - [President Commits to Continuing Climate Leadership](https://www.igsd.org/president-commits-to-continuing-climate-leadership/) - President Obama re-committed tonight in his final State of the Union address to continue his efforts to reduce the threat of climate change, making it a key part of his vision of how to keep American great in the long term. This includes having the United States develop the clean energy needed to replace climate-damaging fossil fuels, according to the President. - [U.S. and Brazil Agree to Phase Down HFCs under Montreal Protocol](https://www.igsd.org/u-s-and-brazil-agree-to-phase-down-hfcs-under-montreal-protocol/) - President Dilma Rousseff of Brazil and President Barack Obama agreed today to work together to phase down the production and consumption of HFCs under the Montreal Protocol. - [New Climate Economy Report Calls for Phase Down of HFCs Under Montreal Protocol](https://www.igsd.org/new-climate-economy-report-calls-for-phase-down-of-hfcs-under-montreal-protocol/) - Phasing down hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) under the Montreal Protocol is one of the top ten strategies for keeping the climate from warming less than 2°C above pre-industrial levels while also promoting strong economic growth and development, according to the New Climate Economy report released today. - [Cutting Soot, HFC Refrigerants, Other Short-Lived Pollutants Provides Political Opportunity](https://www.igsd.org/cutting-soot-hfc-refrigerants-other-short-lived-pollutants-provides-political-opportunity/) - Fast cuts to short-lived climate pollutants will provide both short-term climate mitigation as well as the political confidence necessary for a broader international climate deal in Paris in December, according to a Nature Climate Change commentary to be published 13 July. - [Nations Closing in on Control of Super Greenhouse Gas](https://www.igsd.org/nations-closing-in-on-control-of-super-greenhouse-gas/) - As midnight approached, the Parties to the Montreal Protocol took the unusual step of suspending, rather than adjourning, their Working Group meeting, to ensure they would be able to finalize terms for negotiating the final agreement to phasedown the refrigerants known as HFCs, before treaty’s annual meeting in Dubai 1 to 5 November. - [White House Calls for Cuts to Key Short-Lived Climate Pollutant](https://www.igsd.org/white-house-calls-for-cuts-to-key-short-lived-climate-pollutant/) - The White House announced today federal regulations to reduce 2025 methane emissions from oil and gas production by 40 to 45% from 2012 levels. Methane is a short-lived climate pollutant (SLCP) and has the potential to quickly slow near-term climate impacts by reducing the immediate damages of climate change, including sea-level rise and extreme weather conditions. - [California Gov. Brown Announces Bold Action on Short-Live Climate Pollutants](https://www.igsd.org/california-gov-brown-announces-bold-action-on-short-live-climate-pollutants/) - Governor Brown stated this afternoon that California will announce an aggressive plan next week to cut methane and HFCs by 40 percent and black carbon by 50 percent in the next fifteen years. This bold action was revealed today at - [California Governor Wants Fast Cuts to Short-Lived Pollutants](https://www.igsd.org/california-governor-wants-fast-cuts-to-short-lived-pollutants/) - Following Governor Jerry Brown’s announcement last week, today the California Air Resources Board released the details of its ambitious new strategy to reduce short-lived climate pollutants. - [Groups Demand Faster US Phase Out of Super-Greenhouse Gasses](https://www.igsd.org/groups-demand-faster-us-phase-out-of-super-greenhouse-gasses/) - In the continuing battle to phase down the super-greenhouse gasses known as HFCs, today environmental groups demanded that the EPA withdraw approval for these chemicals in all application where lower global warming potential (GWP) alternatives are now available. The petition, submitted by IGSD and NRDC, was filed with EPA under the Clean Air Act's Significant New Alternatives Policy (SNAP). - [Administration Accelerates End Game for HFCs](https://www.igsd.org/administration-accelerates-end-game-for-hfcs/) - Today the White House, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Department of Energy (DOE), Department of Defense (DOD), and dozens of private companies launched the end game for hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) greenhouse gases both domestically through the federal procurement and the Clean Air Act, and globally, through the Montreal Protocol. The HFC cuts were announced at a White House roundtable - [Montreal Protocol Best Way to Reduce Super Pollutant HFCs, Says New Climate Economy](https://www.igsd.org/montreal-protocol-best-way-to-reduce-super-pollutant-hfcs-says-new-climate-economy/) - A new paper from the New Climate Economy recommends that Parties to the Montreal Protocol approve an amendment to phase down Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), a fast mitigation action that could avoid the equivalent of up to 200 billion tones of carbon dioxide by 2050, and up to 0.5C of warming by the end of the century. By 2030, the HFC amendment could avoid 1.7 Gt CO2 equivalent of greenhouse gas emissions per year, more than the current annual emissions of Japan. - [Parties Agree to Negotiate Phase Down of Powerful Greenhouse Gas](https://www.igsd.org/parties-agree-to-negotiate-phase-down-of-powerful-greenhouse-gas/) - Tonight Parties to the Montreal Protocol agreed to launch formal negotiations to phase down hydrofluorocarbons (HFC) under the Montreal Protocol. After two days of discussions, Parties agreed on the path forward for the formal negotiations to phase down these super greenhouse gases, now growing at a rate to 10 to 15 percent per year. - [Island States Urge Fast Climate Mitigation Under Montreal Protocol](https://www.igsd.org/island-states-urge-fast-climate-mitigation-under-montreal-protocol/) - Today eight Pacific Island States submitted a formal proposal to amend the Montreal Protocol Ozone Treaty to phase down hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), the manmade greenhouse gases used in refrigerators and air conditioners. - [Fast action on HFCs, other short-lived climate pollutants can cut the rate of global warming in half](https://www.igsd.org/fast-action-on-hfcs-other-short-lived-climate-pollutants-can-cut-the-rate-of-global-warming-in-half/) - A five-year strategic framework adopted today by the Climate and Clean Air Coalition will scale up fast mitigation by cutting short-lived climate pollutants, in an effort to help keep global warming to less than 2°C above pre-Industrial levels. - [Cutting Short-Lived Climate Pollutants Best for Reducing Near-Term Warming, Impacts](https://www.igsd.org/cutting-short-lived-climate-pollutants-best-for-reducing-near-term-warming-impacts/) - New study released by Oxford University today reaffirms that cutting short-lived climate pollutants may “be a more cost-effective way to limit the rate of climate change over the coming decades to ensure that ecosystems, food production and the economy can adapt, which also has a role in avoiding dangerous climate change” in the long-term. - [U.S. Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Will Save Tens of Thousands of Lives, Hundreds of Billions of Dollars](https://www.igsd.org/u-s-greenhouse-gas-mitigation-will-save-tens-of-thousands-of-lives-hundreds-of-billions-of-dollars/) - The U.S. must curb greenhouse gas emissions, including short-lived climate pollutants, in order to avoid “serious physical and economic risks of unmitigated climate change,” according to a report released today by the White House and the EPA. - [Profits on Carbon Credits Drive Output of a Harmful Gas](https://www.igsd.org/profits-on-carbon-credits-drive-output-of-a-harmful-gas/) - When the United Nations wanted to help slow climate change, it established what seemed a sensible system. Greenhouse gases were rated based on their power to warm the atmosphere. The more dangerous the gas, the more that manufacturers in developing nations would be compensated as they reduced their emissions. - [Broad Coalition Pledges to Cut “Super Greenhouse Gases”](https://www.igsd.org/broad-coalition-pledges-to-cut-super-greenhouse-gases/) - An international coalition has agreed to begin working towards domestic regulation aimed at reducing the use of HFCs, compounds commonly used as refrigerants but referred to as “super greenhouse gases” for their particularly negative impact on global warming. - [Late Night Lima Deal Sets Stage for Climate Showdown in Paris](https://www.igsd.org/late-night-lima-deal-sets-stage-for-climate-showdown-in-paris/) - The UN climate discussions in Lima crossed the finish line at a few minutes past 3AM this morning, with all countries agreeing to shoulder climate commitments in an agreement to be finalized in Paris next December - [Mexico Commits to Unconditional Reduction of Short-Lived Climate Pollutants](https://www.igsd.org/mexico-commits-to-unconditional-reduction-of-short-lived-climate-pollutants/) - Mexico made an unconditional pledge to reduce black carbon soot (BC) and other short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs) in its Intended Nationally Determined Contribution (INDC) to climate protection - [U.S. Targets HFCs Ahead of UN Climate Negotiations](https://www.igsd.org/u-s-targets-hfcs-ahead-of-un-climate-negotiations/) - The U.S. announced this morning that reduction of short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs), including hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) and methane, are a significant part of its Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDC) to climate safety - [Improving India’s Room Air Conditioners Provides Powerful Climate Protection](https://www.igsd.org/improving-indias-room-air-conditioners-provides-powerful-climate-protection/) - Switching to refrigerants with lower global warming potential (GWP) could reduce energy consumption by India’s residential air conditioning sector by 15%, boost the country’s economy, and help India meet its energy security and climate goals. - [Island Nation’s Climate Strategy Advances at Montreal Protocol Meeting Goal Is Protecting Most Vulnerable Countries](https://www.igsd.org/island-nations-climate-strategy-advances-at-montreal-protocol-meeting-goal-is-protecting-most-vulnerable-countries/) - Proposed amendments to phase down hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) under the Montreal Protocol received support from a diverse group of developing and developed countries this week at the treaty‟s annual Open Ended Working Group meeting. - [European Parliament Calls for Fast Action to Cut Non-CO2 Climate Forcers Part of Comprehensive Climate Strategy](https://www.igsd.org/european-parliament-calls-for-fast-action-to-cut-non-co2-climate-forcers-part-of-comprehensive-climate-strategy/) - The European Parliament is calling for fast action to reduce non-CO2 climate forcers including black carbon soot, hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), methane, and ground-level ozone, which together are responsible for nearly half of climate forcing. - [UN Secretary General urges countries to leapfrog HFCs to protect climate](https://www.igsd.org/un-secretary-general-urges-countries-to-leapfrog-hfcs-to-protect-climate/) - Countries and companies should leapfrog HFCs to protect the climate, according to U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon in a statement issued today on International Ozone Day. HFCs are super greenhouse gases 2,000 times more potent than carbon dioxide at warming the climate. - [European Parliament urges fast cuts in black carbon and ground-level ozone to reduce threats from dangerous glacial dams in Himalayas](https://www.igsd.org/european-parliament-urges-fast-cuts-in-black-carbon-and-ground-level-ozone-to-reduce-threats-from-dangerous-glacial-dams-in-himalayas/) - Fast cuts in black carbon are needed to reduce threats from hundreds of dangerous glacial dams in the Himalayan Hindu Kush and the devastating flash floods caused when these dams burst, according to the European Parliament. - [Central America launches two national pilot projects to speed safe destruction of ozone-depleting substances and persistent organic pollutants](https://www.igsd.org/central-america-launches-two-national-pilot-projects-to-speed-safe-destruction-of-ozone-depleting-substances-and-persistent-organic-pollutants/) - Destroying large banks of ozone-depleting substances (ODS), harmful to the earth’s atmosphere, together with persistent organic pollutants (POPs), damaging to human health and the environment, are the twin aims of a unique regional partnership launched today in Cartagena de Indias, Colombia. This initiative is supported financially by Norway and Switzerland. - [Fast cuts to non-CO2 climate pollutants can cut rate of warming in half](https://www.igsd.org/fast-cuts-to-non-co2-climate-pollutants-can-cut-rate-of-warming-in-half/) - A new UNEP report details how fast action to reduce non-CO2 short-lived climate forcers (SLCFs), including black carbon, methane and tropospheric ozone, can cut the rate of global warming in half and the Arctic by two-thirds over the next 30-60 years. - [Island Effort to Slow Sea Level Rise Blocked at Bali Montreal Protocol Meeting](https://www.igsd.org/island-effort-to-slow-sea-level-rise-blocked-at-bali-montreal-protocol-meeting/) - At the 23rd annual meeting of the Montreal Protocol ozone treaty in Bali, Indonesia 21-25 November, a strong and vocal majority of 108 Parties supported a plea by island nations to phase down super greenhouse gases... - [UNEP tells Durban negotiators fast action on black carbon and other air pollutants can cut rate of global warming in half](https://www.igsd.org/unep-tells-durban-negotiators-fast-action-on-black-carbon-and-other-air-pollutants-can-cut-rate-of-global-warming-in-half/) - The rate of global warming can be cut almost in half over the next 30 to 60 years with a package of 16 fast-action mitigation measures that reduce two local air pollutants... - [EPA approves alternatives for super-greenhouse HFC refrigerants](https://www.igsd.org/epa-approves-alternatives-for-super-greenhouse-hfc-refrigerants/) - The U.S. EPA took a major step this week towards reducing the fastest growing greenhouses gas in the United States by approving three low global warming potential (GWP) hydrocarbon alternatives to hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerants. - [Climate Change Impacts Linked to Ozone Depletion](https://www.igsd.org/climate-change-impacts-linked-to-ozone-depletion/) - "A warming world with violent storms holds many unpleasant surprises" said Durwood Zaelke, President of the Institute for Governance and Sustainable Development (IGSD). - [IGSD Designated NGO Lead on Steering Committee of Landmark Climate and Clean Air Coalition To Reduce Short-Lived Climate Pollutants](https://www.igsd.org/igsd-designated-ngo-lead-on-steering-committee-of-landmark-climate-and-clean-air-coalition-to-reduce-short-lived-climate-pollutants/) - The Institute for Governance & Sustainable Development, long a champion of efforts to reduce HFCs, black carbon, methane, and tropospheric ozone, has joined the Climate and Clean Air Coalition to Reduce Short-Lived Climate Pollutants (CCAC). - [Arctic Sea Ice Levels Hit Record Low](https://www.igsd.org/arctic-sea-ice-levels-hit-record-low/) - Arctic sea ice has hit record lows with weeks still to go in the melt season, an indication of accelerating global warming. Arctic sea ice has reached the lowest level ever observed in the three decades since polar cap observations began, according to... - [Many Himalayan Glaciers Melting at Alarming Rates](https://www.igsd.org/many-himalayan-glaciers-melting-at-alarming-rates/) - Glaciers in the east and central regions of the Hindu Kush-Himalaya (HKH) region are retreating at an alarming rate according to a new report released this week by the National Research Council. - [World’s Most Successful Environmental Treaty Turns 25](https://www.igsd.org/worlds-most-successful-environmental-treaty-turns-25/) - The world’s most successful environmental treaty turns 25 this week on September 16th. The treaty is the Montreal Protocol and its success has avoided one of the most severe global environmental threats the world has ever faced—the destruction of the stratospheric ozone by chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). - [Arctic Loses a Quarter-Million Square Miles of Sea Ice](https://www.igsd.org/arctic-loses-a-quarter-million-square-miles-of-sea-ice/) - The Arctic sea ice has lost an astonishing 260,000 square miles of protective sea ice, the area of France, in the two weeks since the all-time record low was broken. - [Climate Change Could Kill More Than 100 Million People by 2030](https://www.igsd.org/climate-change-could-kill-more-than-100-million-people-by-2030/) - Without fast action, accelerating climate change impacts will cause more than 100 million deaths and knock off more than 3% of GDP (gross domestic product) by 2030, according to... - [Global Leaders Call for Action on Super Greenhouse Gas as Ozone Treaty Celebrates 25th Anniversary](https://www.igsd.org/global-leaders-call-for-action-on-super-greenhouse-gas-as-ozone-treaty-celebrates-25th-anniversary/) - Global environmental leaders, gathered in Geneva yesterday to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the ozone treaty, consistently identified a phase-down of super greenhouse gases called HFCs as the number one priority of the treaty as it moves forward. - [95% Likelihood Climate Change Is Manmade Says IPCC](https://www.igsd.org/95-likelihood-climate-change-is-manmade-says-ipcc/) - On Friday the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change is expected to release the first of four volumes of its fifth comprehensive assessment of scientific knowledge on climate change, known as AR5. - [Black Carbon Emissions are 3-5 Times More Damaging Than Previously Thought](https://www.igsd.org/black-carbon-emissions-are-3-5-times-more-damaging-than-previously-thought/) - Black carbon soot is a potent climate pollutant that is causing up to half the warming in the Arctic region, and also much of the warming in the Himalayan- Tibetan Plateau, two super critical ecosystems that are warming two to three times faster than the global average. - [Accelerating Impacts from Short-Lived Climate Pollutants Threaten Human Rights](https://www.igsd.org/accelerating-impacts-from-short-lived-climate-pollutants-threaten-human-rights/) - Climate pollutant emissions violate human rights and require rapid reductions to protect the world’s most vulnerable people, according to a joint submission to the U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights by the Center for Human Rights and Environment (CEDHA) in Argentina... - [Universal Support in Rio for Phase-Down of HFCs for Climate Protection](https://www.igsd.org/universal-support-in-rio-for-phase-down-of-hfcs-for-climate-protection/) - While Rio+20 was disappointing on many fronts, the efforts to reduce short-lived climate pollutants moved forward with the final declaration, The Future We Want, supporting the phase down of factory-made super-greenhouse gases HFCs. - [Biomass Burning Really Heats Things Up: New Study Shows Significance of Fire’s Brown Carbon for Global Warming](https://www.igsd.org/biomass-burning-really-heats-things-up-new-study-shows-significance-of-fires-brown-carbon-for-global-warming/) - Emissions from forest fires and other biomass burning has a greater impact on global warming than previously understood, according to a new study. - [Industry Showcases Climate-Friendly Alternatives to Super-Greenhouse HFCs](https://www.igsd.org/industry-showcases-climate-friendly-alternatives-to-super-greenhouse-hfcs/) - More than 400 representatives from industry, government and civil society gathered this weekend in Bangkok to highlight the wide range of existing and rapidly emerging climate-friendly alternatives to hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), super greenhouse gases... - [Split Decision this Week for Short-Lived Climate Pollutants](https://www.igsd.org/split-decision-this-week-for-short-lived-climate-pollutants/) - This has been a rough week in the fight against climate, leaving many advocates feeling justifiably bruised. The New York Times has reported that record breaking droughts across North America are affecting 88% of the U.S. corn crop and will likely drive up prices on staple groceries next year. - [Cuts in super greenhouse gas stalled by China, India, and Brazil](https://www.igsd.org/cuts-in-super-greenhouse-gas-stalled-by-china-india-and-brazil/) - "China, India, and Brazil have again stalled formal negotiations to cut production of HFCs under the Montreal Protocol, a fast-action strategy that would provide the biggest, fastest, and cheapest climate mitigation available to the world this decade", according to... - [US, China, and Others Launch Coordinated Study of Soot’s Impact on Arctic Melting](https://www.igsd.org/us-china-and-others-launch-coordinated-study-of-soots-impact-on-arctic-melting/) - The Arctic has been warming rapidly over the last century – about twice the global average – and black carbon soot may be to blame, according to an international team of scientists who have begun a month-long research project to study the impact of black carbon particles in the vulnerable region. - [Cutting Black Carbon Pollution Provides Fast Climate Mitigation, Prevents Millions of Premature Deaths](https://www.igsd.org/cutting-black-carbon-pollution-provides-fast-climate-mitigation-prevents-millions-of-premature-deaths/) - Cutting black carbon (BC) pollution can provide near- term climate mitigation, particularly in sensitive regions such as the Arctic and the Tibetan Plateau, according to the Advisory Panel reviewing the EPA Report to Congress on Black Carbon. - [BBC World Highlights Ozone Treaty’s Potential to Help or Hurt Climate System](https://www.igsd.org/bbc-world-highlights-ozone-treatys-potential-to-help-or-hurt-climate-system/) - Beginning tomorrow, May 7, BBC World will air a documentary highlighting the potential of the Montreal Protocol ozone treaty to fight climate change. - [Dramatic Sea Level Rise Expected From Faster Melting of Arctic Snow and Ice](https://www.igsd.org/dramatic-sea-level-rise-expected-from-faster-melting-of-arctic-snow-and-ice/) - Sea levels could rise up to 5 feet by the end of this century, driven by warming in the Arctic and the resulting melt of snow and ice, according to a new study by the International Arctic Monitoring and Assessment Program (AMAP). - [Vulnerable Island Nation Calls for Fast Climate Cuts under Ozone Treaty](https://www.igsd.org/vulnerable-island-nation-calls-for-fast-climate-cuts-under-ozone-treaty/) - Facing sea level rise of up to 5 feet by the end of the century, the low-lying vulnerable island nation of Micronesia is calling on the Parties to the Montreal Protocol ozone treaty to capture the single biggest... - [New Climate Report “Sounds Alarm” for Fast Action in US](https://www.igsd.org/new-climate-report-sounds-alarm-for-fast-action-in-us/) - Global climate change is real and the danger it poses to the US and the world demands aggressive national policies to quickly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, according to a report published on May 12 by The National Research Council of the National Academies of Science. - [Key Allies Join Second Front in Climate War](https://www.igsd.org/key-allies-join-second-front-in-climate-war/) - The second front in the war against climate change just got major reinforcements in the effort to reduce black carbon (soot), methane, and hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), collectively known as short-lived climate pollutants... - [Environmental organizations call on EPA to eliminate super greenhouse gases from household and small commercial refrigeration](https://www.igsd.org/environmental-organizations-call-on-epa-to-eliminate-super-greenhouse-gases-from-household-and-small-commercial-refrigeration/) - This past Friday, the Institute for Governance and Sustainable Development (IGSD) and the Environmental Investigation Agency (EIA) joined the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) in a petition... - [Major Environmental Treaty Tackles Black Carbon as Climate Pollutant](https://www.igsd.org/major-environmental-treaty-tackles-black-carbon-as-climate-pollutant/) - Black carbon, the second most potent climate pollutant, has been targeted by the Convention on Long-Range Transboundary Air Pollution (CLRTAP), making it the first international treaty to act on the critical link between climate change and air pollution. - [Pacific Island Strategy Targets Fastest Growing Greenhouse Gas](https://www.igsd.org/pacific-island-strategy-targets-fastest-growing-greenhouse-gas/) - With prospects for a comprehensive climate treaty now delayed until 2020, the Federated States of Micronesia is calling on the 197 Parties to the Montreal Protocol to strengthen climate protection under that treaty by phasing down the production and use of the super-greenhouse gases known as hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs). - [Super Pollutant Emissions Reduction Act Introduced in Congress](https://www.igsd.org/super-pollutant-emissions-reduction-act-introduced-in-congress/) - Congressman Scott Peters (D-Calif.) today introduced the Super Pollutant Emissions Reduction Act of 2013, or SUPER Act, to establish a U.S task force to reduce super climate pollutants under existing authorities. - [Runaway Warming Ahead, According to Ancient Climate Records](https://www.igsd.org/runaway-warming-ahead-according-to-ancient-climate-records/) - What insurance can the world afford to prevent repeating the catastrophic temperature increase of the past? - [Cutting Local Air Pollutants Reduces Warming, Saves Millions of Lives and Improves Crop Yields](https://www.igsd.org/cutting-local-air-pollutants-reduces-warming-saves-millions-of-lives-and-improves-crop-yields/) - Using existing technologies and institutions to cut two local air pollutants can save millions of lives and avoid tens of billions of dollars of crop losses annually, while halving regional warming for 30 to 60 years. - [Big, Fast, Cheap Climate Opportunity Within Reach](https://www.igsd.org/big-fast-cheap-climate-opportunity-within-reach/) - The world has a significant climate opportunity within its grasp that can bring fast results at low-cost, according to IGSD President, Durwood Zaelke, who yesterday addressed the European Parliament’s Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety (ENVI). - [EPA Set to Ban Powerful GHGs From Auto Air Conditioning](https://www.igsd.org/epa-set-to-ban-powerful-ghgs-from-auto-air-conditioning/) - The U.S. EPA has agreed to grant a petition filed by a trio of NGOs to withdraw the agency’s approval to use the super greenhouse gas HFC-134a for air conditioning installed in new automobiles. - [Cutting Black Carbon Provides Fast Benefits for Climate, Health](https://www.igsd.org/cutting-black-carbon-provides-fast-benefits-for-climate-health/) - Black carbon (BC) is “ripe for ‘win-win’ emissions reduction approaches that bring both climate and public health benefits”, according to a new U.S. EPA study mandated by Congress. - [Fast action climate mitigation measures can prevent 0.5°C of global warming and help avoid the 2°C danger limit](https://www.igsd.org/fast-action-climate-mitigation-measures-can-prevent-0-5c-of-global-warming-and-help-avoid-the-2c-danger-limit/) - A new study in Science to be published 13 January identifies 14 fast action measures to reduce air pollutants that can deliver major benefits for climate, public health, and agriculture. - [Secretary Clinton and Allies Open Second Front In Fight Against Global Warming](https://www.igsd.org/secretary-clinton-and-allies-open-second-front-in-fight-against-global-warming/) - Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson, and environmental ministers from five other countries announced today the formal launch of a new initiative on Climate and Clean Air to Reduce Short-lived Climate Pollutants. - [Reducing Production of Super Greenhouse Gas Under Montreal Protocol Is Critical Climate Strategy](https://www.igsd.org/reducing-production-of-super-greenhouse-gas-under-montreal-protocol-is-critical-climate-strategy/) - Phasing down the production and use of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) under the Montreal Protocol ozone treaty is one of the most effective climate protection strategies available to the world today: it could... - [Black carbon ranked number two climate pollutant by US EPA](https://www.igsd.org/black-carbon-ranked-number-two-climate-pollutant-by-us-epa/) - The US Environmental Protection Agency concluded in a report to Congress released today that targeted strategies to reduce black carbon “can be expected to provide climate benefits within the next several decades,” based on black carbon’s strong warming potential and its short atmospheric lifetime of days to weeks. - [President Obama, Other G8 Leaders Commit to Cutting Short-Lived Climate Pollutants; G8 joins new Climate and Clean Air Coalition with UNEP and World Bank](https://www.igsd.org/president-obama-other-g8-leaders-commit-to-cutting-short-lived-climate-pollutants-g8-joins-new-climate-and-clean-air-coalition-with-unep-and-world-bank/) - President Obama announced Saturday at the conclusion of the G8 Summit at Camp David, Maryland that the G8 leaders have committed to cutting short-lived climate pollutants to mitigate near-term climate change, save lives, and improve crop yields, and have joined... - [SAE International Re-Confirms R-1234yf “Safe and Acceptable” and Finds Daimler Claims to the Contrary “Unrealistic”](https://www.igsd.org/sae-international-re-confirms-r-1234yf-safe-and-acceptable-and-finds-daimler-claims-to-the-contrary-unrealistic/) - SAE International (formerly known as the Society of Automotive Engineers) has reconfirmed that R-1234yf is a safe and acceptable alternative to the super-greenhouse gas HFC-134a now used in automobile air conditioners in a recent announcement. - [Reducing Air Pollution, Chemical Coolants Can Quickly Cut Sea-Level Rise](https://www.igsd.org/reducing-air-pollution-chemical-coolants-can-quickly-cut-sea-level-rise/) - Sea-level rise—a growing threat that washes away beaches, attacks costal development, and raises the platform for launching ever more damaging and deadly storm surges—can be cut significantly by... - [Sea Change in Support for Reducing HFCs Under Montreal Protocol](https://www.igsd.org/sea-change-in-support-for-reducing-hfcs-under-montreal-protocol/) - Parties to the Montreal Protocol this week took a major step forward in considering action to reduce the production and consumption of hydrofluorocarbons, the super-greenhouse gases known as HFCs. - [Science report confirms Montreal Protocol’s past successes, warns of future danger](https://www.igsd.org/science-report-confirms-montreal-protocols-past-successes-warns-of-future-danger/) - A report to be released today by the Scientific Assessment Panel (SAP) of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer confirms that the Montreal Protocol... - [White House and Industry Announce Emission Reduction Collaboration on Anniversary of Montreal Protocol](https://www.igsd.org/white-house-and-industry-announce-emission-reduction-collaboration-on-anniversary-of-montreal-protocol/) - In an event hosted by the White House today, a group of industry leaders made pledges to protect the environment by reducing emissions of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs)... - [Permafrost Thawing to Cause Additional Global Warming](https://www.igsd.org/permafrost-thawing-to-cause-additional-global-warming/) - Should permafrost thawing accelerate as expected, resulting carbon dioxide and methane emissions will significantly amplify global warming, according to a report published today by the... - [Growing Enthusiasm for Reducing Short-Lived Climate Pollutant for Fast Climate Mitigation](https://www.igsd.org/growing-enthusiasm-for-reducing-short-lived-climate-pollutant-for-fast-climate-mitigation/) - 25 Ministers met today in a high-level assembly in a small room on the side of the UNFCCC negotiations in Doha, and along with representatives from... - [Montreal Protocol Endorsed for Fast Climate Mitigation](https://www.igsd.org/montreal-protocol-endorsed-for-fast-climate-mitigation/) - Efforts to phase down the super greenhouse gas called hydrofluorocarbons, or HFCs, received a boost today when the Climate & Clean Air Coalition to Reduce Short-Lived Climate Pollutants agreed to “to work toward a phasedown in the production and consumption of HFCs under the Montreal Protocol.” - [Obama gains allies for de-funding coal plants, expanding cuts in short-lived pollutants](https://www.igsd.org/obama-gains-allies-for-de-funding-coal-plants-expanding-cuts-in-short-lived-pollutants/) - During his visit to Sweden yesterday, President Obama gained allies in his effort to stop coal plants when the leaders of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden agreed to join the U.S. “in ending public financing for new coal-fired power plants overseas, except in rare circumstances.” - [G-20 countries join US and China to support phasing down HFCs under Montreal Protocol](https://www.igsd.org/g-20-countries-join-us-and-china-to-support-phasing-down-hfcs-under-montreal-protocol/) - Today President Obama negotiated two separate agreements, one with the G-20 and one with China, to phase down the super greenhouse gasses called hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs). - [Climate Threat from Short-Lived Climate Pollutants Upgraded by IPCC in 5th Assessment](https://www.igsd.org/climate-threat-from-short-lived-climate-pollutants-upgraded-by-ipcc-in-5th-assessment/) - The climate threat posed by short-lived climate pollutants was just upgraded by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change’s (IPCC) in its Fifth assessment published this week. - [Cutting Short-Lived Climate Pollutants Critical for Protecting Earth’s Snow and Ice-Covered Regions](https://www.igsd.org/cutting-short-lived-climate-pollutants-critical-for-protecting-earths-snow-and-ice-covered-regions/) - Cutting short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs) can significantly reduce warming in vulnerable ice and snow covered areas of the world such as the Arctic and Himalayas, known as... - [Climate Emissions Off-Track for 2°C Goal, But Still Possible with Fast, Focused, Firm Action](https://www.igsd.org/climate-emissions-off-track-for-2c-goal-but-still-possible-with-fast-focused-firm-action/) - The gap continues to grow between emissions pledges that countries have made and the emissions levels needed by 2020 to keep global temperature rise below 2° (or 1.5°) C by 2100. - [Montreal Protocol Success Slowed Global Warming](https://www.igsd.org/montreal-protocol-success-slowed-global-warming/) - Scientists using sophisticated statistical methods show in a paper in Nature Geoscience that the successful phase out of chlorofluorocarbons, or CFCs, by the Montreal Protocol slowed climate change... - [Effort to Reduce Short-Lived Climate Pollutants Brings Hope to Climate Negotiations](https://www.igsd.org/effort-to-reduce-short-lived-climate-pollutants-brings-hope-to-climate-negotiations/) - Amid a desultory UN climate negotiation session in Warsaw this week and last—the 19th Meeting of the Parties—one strategy emerged with wide-spread support. - [World Already Teetering on Tipping Points for Abrupt Climate Change](https://www.igsd.org/world-already-teetering-on-tipping-points-for-abrupt-climate-change/) - The world is already beginning to pass tipping points for abrupt, catastrophic, and irreversible changes to the global climate according to a new 200-page report released yesterday by the US National Academy of Sciences. Abrupt climate change, unlike gradual changes such as steadily increasing... - [Cuts Needed in Both CO2 and Short-Lived Climate Pollutants](https://www.igsd.org/cuts-needed-in-both-co2-and-short-lived-climate-pollutants/) - A paper to be published today in Science describes the importance of reducing both long-lived CO2 and short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs) to achieve... - [Climate Change Will Be Overwhelming and Ubiquitous](https://www.igsd.org/climate-change-will-be-overwhelming-and-ubiquitous/) - Widespread climate change impacts have already begun and are expected to get worse, according to the latest report released by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) this weekend in Yokohamo, Japan. - [Bipartisan Team to Introduce Super Pollutants Act to Cut HFCs, Black Carbon, Methane](https://www.igsd.org/bipartisan-team-to-introduce-super-pollutants-act-to-cut-hfcs-black-carbon-methane/) - Senators Murphy (D-Connecticut) and Collins (R-Maine) announced today their plans to introduce the Super Pollutants Act of 2014 to cut short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs) by... - [Fast Action to Cut HFCs Avoids Up to 0.5°C of Warming by End of Century](https://www.igsd.org/fast-action-to-cut-hfcs-avoids-up-to-0-5c-of-warming-by-end-of-century/) - A study published today in Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics confirms the importance President Obama is placing on cutting hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), as reflected in his... - [Phasing Down HFCs Under Montreal Protocol Can Cut Climate Pollution Twice Over](https://www.igsd.org/phasing-down-hfcs-under-montreal-protocol-can-cut-climate-pollution-twice-over-2/) - A global phase-down of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) under the Montreal Protocol will drive the development of super-efficient air conditioning and refrigeration that in turn reduces energy use and carbon dioxide pollution, according to... - [Air Pollution Shorting Lives in China, Europe](https://www.igsd.org/air-pollution-shorting-lives-in-china-europe/) - A new study finds that air pollution during the 90’s caused the combined loss of more than 2.5 billion years of life for the 500 million residents of Northern China. The study... - [The US-China Agree to Further Climate Cuts](https://www.igsd.org/the-us-china-agree-to-further-climate-cuts/) - The U.S.-China Working Group on Climate Change, set up in April during Secretary of State John Kerry’s first visit to China, yesterday announced agreement on five new initiatives to... - [Wildfires Causing Melting in Low-Lying Himalayan Glaciers](https://www.igsd.org/wildfires-causing-melting-in-low-lying-himalayan-glaciers-2/) - A new study by Indian glaciologists suggests black carbon from forest fires may affect the “reflectance” or albedo of glaciers in a manner that reduces their mass balance. The report indicates... - [Cutting Short-Lived Climate Pollutants Central Strategy in Abu Dhabi Climate Ascent](https://www.igsd.org/cutting-short-lived-climate-pollutants-central-strategy-in-abu-dhabi-climate-ascent/) - The message was clear coming out of the May 4 & 5 Abu Dhabi Ascent in the to the UN Secretary General's Climate Summit in September: time is running out... - [New National Climate Assessment Cries Out for Fast Climate Mitigation](https://www.igsd.org/new-national-climate-assessment-cries-out-for-fast-climate-mitigation/) - The last decade has been the hottest on record in the U.S., periods of extreme heat now last longer than any living American has ever experienced, rainfall is becoming both more intense and more erratic, and sea-level rise and storm surges threaten thousands of coastal communities. - [Fast HFC Phase-Down Could Avoid 200 Billion Tonnes of CO2–eq by 2050](https://www.igsd.org/fast-hfc-phase-down-could-avoid-200-billion-tonnes-of-co2-eq-by-2050/) - A fast phase-down of factory-made HFCs could avoid the equivalent of as much as 200 billion tonnes of CO2 (GtCO2-eq) by 2050, according to a study published today in Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics, by... - [Comprehensive Four-Year Study Finds Black Carbon Second Biggest Climate Pollutant Behind Carbon Dioxide](https://www.igsd.org/comprehensive-four-year-study-finds-black-carbon-second-biggest-climate-pollutant-behind-carbon-dioxide/) - Black carbon is the second most powerful climate pollutant behind only carbon dioxide, according to a landmark four-year assessment lead by T.C. Bond, S. J. Doherty, D. W. Fahey, and P. Forster, and a multinational team of 27 other experts, including prominent scientists from China and India. - [Switching Car Coolants Provides Fast Climate Benefits for US, World](https://www.igsd.org/news3/) - The US can use existing authority to help meet its pledge to reduce emissions by 17% below 2005 levels by 2020, although Congressional action will be needed to meet the steeper emission cuts needed to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. - [Reducing Black Carbon, HFCs, Methane Key to Protecting Arctic in Near-Term, Say Arctic Ministers](https://www.igsd.org/reducing-black-carbon-hfcs-methane-key-to-protecting-arctic-in-near-term-say-arctic-ministers/) - Arctic Environment Ministers are calling for “urgent action” to reduce black carbon, methane, and HFCs in order to help protect the Arctic and reduce the risk of setting off self-amplifying feedback mechanisms that accelerate warming and lead to irreversible impacts. - [Air Pollution, Among Top Global Killers, Is Critical Climate Target](https://www.igsd.org/air-pollution-among-top-global-killers-is-critical-climate-target/) - Indoor air pollution is the fourth leading global risk factor for death according to the Global Burden of Disease study produced by 488 researchers from 50 countries. - [Climate Change a Growing “Threat Multiplier,” Says Pentagon](https://www.igsd.org/climate-change-a-growing-threat-multiplier-says-pentagon/) - Climate change is a “threat multiplier” and a critical component of future defense strategy, according to the Pentagon’s Quadrennial Defense Review 2014 released yesterday. - [World Health Organization Confirms Air Pollution Is World’s Single Largest Preventable Health Risk](https://www.igsd.org/world-health-organization-confirms-air-pollution-is-worlds-single-largest-preventable-health-risk/) - One in eight deaths in 2012 is attributed to exposure to indoor and outdoor air pollution, according to new estimates released today by the World Health Organization (WHO). - [World On Pace to Hit 4.8ºC by End of Century, Says UN Scientific Panel](https://www.igsd.org/world-on-pace-to-hit-4-8oc-by-end-of-century-says-un-scientific-panel/) - Global greenhouse gas emissions increased by the equivalent of ten billion tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO2) between 2000 and 2010, according to a new report released this week. - [Citizens March, Obama and Other Leaders Listen, Pledge Action](https://www.igsd.org/citizens-march-obama-and-other-leaders-listen-pledge-action/) - Two days after the historic People's Climate March, more than 100 heads of State met the challenge from the Secretary General to step up their climate mitigation actions. ## Pages - [Homepage](https://www.igsd.org/) - [Job Openings](https://www.igsd.org/job-openings/) - [Stopping Harmful Environmental Dumping of Cooling Equipment](https://www.igsd.org/history-progress-stop-dumping-timeline/) - * - [Op Eds](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds/) - [Our Team](https://www.igsd.org/our-team/) - [Primers](https://www.igsd.org/primers/) - [Other Efforts](https://www.igsd.org/other-efforts/) - [Energy-Efficient Cooling Equipment Using Low- or Zero-GWP Refrigerants](https://www.igsd.org/energy-efficient-and-climate-safe-cooling-equipment/) - * - [What We Do](https://www.igsd.org/what-we-do/) - [Short-Lived Climate Pollutants (SLCPs)](https://www.igsd.org/short-lived-climate-pollutants-slcps/) - * - [FACE Intergenerational Justice](https://www.igsd.org/face-intergenerational-justice/) - [About](https://www.igsd.org/about-us/) - [News & Updates](https://www.igsd.org/news-updates/) - [President & Founder](https://www.igsd.org/president-founder/) - [Climate Litigation](https://www.igsd.org/climate-litigation/) - [02 - Sample Page](https://www.igsd.org/sample-page/) - [Partners](https://www.igsd.org/partners/) - [02 - Sample Page](https://www.igsd.org/02-sample-page/) - [Audio & Video](https://www.igsd.org/audio-video/) - [02 - Sample Page Guide](https://www.igsd.org/02-sample-page-guide/) - [Contact Us](https://www.igsd.org/contact-us/) - [03 - What We Do](https://www.igsd.org/03-what-we-do/) - [Publications Library](https://www.igsd.org/publications-library/) - [05 - Post Directory](https://www.igsd.org/05-directory-posts/) - [06 - Op Eds Directory](https://www.igsd.org/06-op-eds-directory/) - [04 - Publications Library](https://www.igsd.org/publications/) - [Thank you for your message!](https://www.igsd.org/thank-you-for-your-message/) ## Publications - [National Plans for Lifecycle Refrigerant Management](https://www.igsd.org/publications/national-plans-for-lifecycle-refrigerant-management/) - A Practical Guide for Developing Countries National Plans for Lifecycle Refrigerant Management: A Practical Guide for Developing Countries provides a structured approach to help governments translate national inventories of ozone-depleting substances (ODS) and hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) banks into practical and costed National Action Plans (NAPs). The Guide supports Article 5 Parties in preventing emissions from existing - [Compendium of Key Climate Change Jurisprudence](https://www.igsd.org/publications/compendium-of-key-climate-change-jurisprudence/) - In 2026, IGSD updated its compendium of key climate jurisprudence to reflect the monumental developments represented by the 2025 climate Advisory Opinions from the Inter-American Court of Human Rights and the International Court of Justice. Summaries and analyses of these opinions can now be found in Annex 2 of the document. The compendium now covers all - [Pathways to prevent environmental dumping of climate-harming room air conditioners in Latin America and the Caribbean](https://www.igsd.org/publications/pathways-to-prevent-environmental-dumping-of-climate-harming-room-air-conditioners-in-latin-america-and-the-caribbean/) - This study assesses the extent of environmental dumping of new room air conditioners (room ACs) in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) and explores this practice’s linkages to cooling access and affordability there. It also examines the current state of the room AC market and energy efficiency policies in the region. Covering 11 countries (Argentina, - [Tackling Non-CO2 Emissions: Pathways for Himachal Pradesh](https://www.igsd.org/publications/tackling-non-co2-emissions-pathways-for-himachal-pradesh/) - This report presents a comprehensive emission inventory of Short-Lived Climate Pollutants (SLCPs) and other non-CO₂ pollutants for the state of Himachal Pradesh, using 2019 as the baseline year. It underscores the urgent need to strengthen focus on non-CO₂ pollutants—particularly SLCPs such as CH₄, BC, hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), and tropospheric O₃, to mitigate near-term climate impacts, while - [A Dual Strategy Sprint Towards Sustainability: Non-CO₂ Pathways for Haryana](https://www.igsd.org/publications/a-dual-strategy-sprint-towards-sustainability-non-co₂-pathways-for-haryana/) - This report presents a comprehensive emission inventory of non-CO2 pollutants for the state of Haryana, using 2019 as the baseline year. It highlights the critical need to sharpen focus on such non-CO2 pollutants, especially Short-Lived Climate Pollutants (SLCPs)—including methane (CH4), black carbon (BC), hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), and tropospheric ozone (O3) to mitigate shorter-term climate impacts, while - [Energy-Efficient Phasedown of HFCs: Case Study of Room Air Conditioner (RAC) Investment Opportunities in Brazil](https://www.igsd.org/publications/energy-efficient-phasedown-of-hfcs-case-study-of-room-air-conditioner-rac-investment-opportunities-in-brazil/) - This paper documents that air conditioners sold in Brazil and most other A5 Parties have far lower energy efficiency than the products sold by the same companies in developed countries (non-A5 Parties). The study is original and unique because a certification laboratory contrasts the energy performance of brands for the same size ductless mini-split room - [How the Montreal Protocol Put the Stratospheric Ozone Layer on the Path to Recovery and Delayed Climate Tipping Points That Would Have Forced Earth Further Beyond Planetary Boundaries](https://www.igsd.org/publications/how-the-montreal-protocol-put-the-stratospheric-ozone-layer-on-the-path-to-recovery-and-delayed-climate-tipping-points-that-would-have-forced-earth-further-beyond-planetary-boundaries/) - Note: The authors thank readers for their crowd-sourced peer review and particularly for suggestions of elaboration. The paper has been submitted for publication in an open-access journal and will be back on the IGSD website as soon as published. The framework, introduced in 2009 by co-author Professor Johan Rockström and colleagues, defines Planetary Boundaries as - [Climate Justice and Human Rights: Legal Standards and Tools from the Inter-American Court’s Advisory Opinion 32/25](https://www.igsd.org/publications/climate-justice-and-human-rights-legal-standards-and-tools-from-the-inter-american-courts-advisory-opinion-32-25/) - This publication compiles fourteen thematic documents developed through the collaborative efforts of a coalition of environmental, human rights, and academic organizations, alongside experts who have actively participated in the advisory proceedings from the outset. The topics reflect the main thematic areas articulated by the Court in the Advisory Opinion and are organized into four sections: - [HFC Phasedown Under the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol Is Less Costly if Fast Than if Slow](https://www.igsd.org/publications/hfc-phasedown-under-the-kigali-amendment-to-the-montreal-protocol-is-less-costly-if-fast-than-if-slow/) - This paper makes the case that faster phasedown of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) to help avert nearterm climate tipping points will be less costly than the existing schedule for both non-Article 5 and Article 5 Parties. In particular, the paper demonstrates that a faster HFC phasedown is less costly for: 1) non-Article 5 donors to the Multilateral - [Primer on Anthropogenic Nitrous Oxide](https://www.igsd.org/publications/a-primer-on-anthropogenic-nitrous-oxide/) - Nitrous oxide (N2O) is a potent greenhouse gas and an ozone-depleting substance (ODS). Its global warming potential over 100 years is 273 times greater than that of carbon dioxide (CO2). To slow self-amplifying feedbacks and avoid irreversible climate tipping points, the world must quickly cut global human-caused N2O emissions as part of any fast climate - [From Climate Science to Climate Justice: The Mandatory Inclusion of Climate Considerations in Environmental Impact Assessments and Its Connection to Enhanced Due Diligence](https://www.igsd.org/publications/from-climate-science-to-climate-justice-the-mandatory-inclusion-of-climate-considerations-in-environmental-impact-assessments-and-its-connection-to-enhanced-due-diligence/) - The article explores how the Inter-American Court of Human Rights' long-awaited Advisory Opinion on Human Rights and the Climate Emergency marks a turning point in the jurisprudence of the Court by acknowledging the climate emergency as an existential threat to human rights and providing a framework for States to respond with urgency, ambition, and accountability. - [Industry Leadership in Motor Vehicle Air Conditioning (MACs) ](https://www.igsd.org/publications/industry-leadership-in-motor-vehicle-air-conditioning-macs/) - Includes a Case Study of MAC Secondary-Loop Architecture Vital to Economic and Environmental Performance of All-Electric Vehicles. This publication offers the back and front story, the timeline, and the comprehensive bibliography of leadership in the full spectrum of environmentally improved motor vehicle air conditioning, including ozone-safe and climate-friendly refrigerants, leak-tight systems, repair before recharge with - [Pathways to Net Zero in Punjab: The Critical Role of Non-CO₂ Pollutants](https://www.igsd.org/publications/pathways-to-net-zero-in-punjab-the-critical-role-of-non-co₂-pollutants/) - Presenting a novel emission estimation study of Short-lived Climate Forcers (SLCFs) for the state of Punjab for the baseline year 2019; this report highlights all the projected changes in these compounds by 2047 under a Business-As-Usual scenario. It highlights the critical need to sharpen focus on SLCFs—which include Short-lived Climate Pollutants, i.e., methane (CH4), black - [Preventing the Dumping in Vulnerable Developing-Country Markets of Inefficient Cooling Equipment Using Obsolete Refrigerants](https://www.igsd.org/publications/preventing-the-dumping-in-vulnerable-developing-country-markets-of-inefficient-cooling-equipment-using-obsolete-refrigerants/) - The IGSD Resource Guide on Preventing the Dumping of Inefficient Cooling Equipment provides information and resources for government representatives and their advisors, researchers, academics, non-profit, philanthropic and other nongovernmental organizations, and other citizens to understand the practice of environmentally harmful dumping of new but energy-inefficient cooling equipment that uses high global-warming-potential refrigerants. The Resource Guide also provides insights for those working - [Handbook of Best Practices: Room Air Conditioner Installation for the Lowest Carbon Footprint](https://www.igsd.org/publications/handbook-of-best-practices-room-air-conditioner-installation-for-the-lowest-carbon-footprint/) - The Center for Environmental Energy Engineering (CEEE) at University of Maryland, the Climate & Clean Air Coalition (CCAC), Centro Studi Galileo, and the Institute for Governance & Sustainable Development (IGSD) have released the Handbook of Best Practices: Room Air Conditioner Installation for the Lowest Carbon Footprint, which explains how to appropriately install high-efficiency room air conditioners (RACs) for the highest - [Background Note: The Need for Fast Near-Term Climate Mitigation to Slow Feedbacks and Tipping Points](https://www.igsd.org/publications/background-note-the-need-for-fast-near-term-climate-mitigation-to-slow-feedbacks-and-tipping-points/) - This IGSD Background Note summarizes the science supporting the need for fast climate mitigation to slow warming in the near term (2022–2041). It also describes the importance of cutting short-lived climate pollutants and protecting sinks in order to slow self-reinforcing feedbacks and avoid tipping points. It explains why winning a fast mitigation sprint to 2030 - [Enhanced Rock Weathering in the Global South: Exploring Potential for Enhanced Agricultural Productivity and Carbon dioxide Drawdown](https://www.igsd.org/publications/enhanced-rock-weathering-in-the-global-south-exploring-potential-for-enhanced-agricultural-productivity-and-carbon-dioxide-drawdown/) - PxD and IGSD are partnering on an initiative to collaboratively identify opportunities for innovation in climate change mitigation, particularly for the greenhouse gases most problematic in agricultural production, methane and nitrous oxide, as well as carbon dioxide. This initiative includes four analytical pieces on the opportunities for climate change mitigation by smallholder famers, starting with - [Climate Change Mitigation through Organic Carbon Strategies](https://www.igsd.org/publications/climate-change-mitigation-through-organic-carbon-strategies/) - PxD and IGSD are partnering on an initiative to collaboratively identify opportunities for innovation in climate change mitigation, particularly for the greenhouse gases most problematic in agricultural production, methane, and nitrous oxide, as well as carbon dioxide. This initiative includes four analytical pieces on the opportunities for climate change mitigation by smallholder farmers. The agriculture - [Opportunities for Improving Productivity and Reducing Methane Emissions in Smallholder Dairy Systems in Low- and Middle-Income Countries](https://www.igsd.org/publications/opportunities-for-improving-productivity-and-reducing-methane-emissions-in-smallholder-dairy-systems-in-low-and-middle-income-countries/) - PxD and IGSD are partnering on an initiative to collaboratively identify opportunities for innovation in climate change mitigation, particularly for the greenhouse gases most problematic in agricultural production, methane, and nitrous oxide, as well as carbon dioxide. This initiative includes four analytical pieces on the opportunities for climate change mitigation by smallholder farmers. Methane is - [Reducing nitrous oxide emissions from smallholder farmer agriculture through site-specific nutrient management](https://www.igsd.org/publications/reducing-nitrous-oxide-emissions-from-smallholder-farmer-agriculture-through-site-specific-nutrient-management/) - PxD and IGSD are partnering on an initiative to collaboratively identify opportunities for innovation in climate change mitigation, particularly for the greenhouse gases most problematic in agricultural production, methane, and nitrous oxide, as well as carbon dioxide. This initiative includes four analytical pieces on the opportunities for climate change mitigation by smallholder farmers. Nitrous oxide - [Supplementary Brief: Recognition of the Human Right to Resilience in Times of Climate Emergency](https://www.igsd.org/publications/supplementary-brief-recognition-of-the-human-right-to-resilience-in-times-of-climate-emergency/) - IGSD's supplementary brief presented to the Inter-American Human Rights Court Advisory Opinion Proceedings on the Human Right to Resilience. This supplementary brief further addresses the legal obligations of States to establish and maintain climate resilience in response to the climate emergency to protect and ensure human rights. Also available in Spanish, El Reconocimiento del Derecho Humano - [Primer on Non-Carbon Dioxide Pollutants in India](https://www.igsd.org/publications/primer-on-non-carbon-dioxide-pollutants-in-india/) - India’s efforts to address climate change have often centered on carbon dioxide (CO2), but with growing evidence of the substantial impact of short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs), this focus is sharpening. SLCPs, including black carbon, methane, tropospheric ozone, hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), and nitrous oxide (N2O), are potent contributors to climate change, accelerating global warming with far-reaching implications - [Including and quantifying methane mitigation in NDCs is key to a better climate outcome](https://www.igsd.org/publications/including-and-quantifying-methane-mitigation-in-ndcs-is-key-to-a-better-climate-outcome/) - Long-term success requires that NDCs be aggressive in terms of ambition and comprehensive in terms of gasses and sectors covered. We call upon nations to include all GHGs in the next NDCs and specify additional ambitious quantitative contributions from methane and other non-CO₂ gasses; this is a critically important opportunity to increase overall mitigation ambition, - [Integrating Human Rights and Science Perspectives in Climate Responses](https://www.igsd.org/publications/integrating-human-rights-and-science-perspectives-in-climate-responses/) - As climate change increasingly impacts our lives, international and regional judicial advisory opinions are reshaping our approach to the climate emergency from an international law perspective. We are at an historic juncture, with three major international courts issuing advisory opinions on States’ obligations to address the climate emergency. These opinions could become crucial tools in - [Beyond the single-basket mindset: a multi-gas approach to better constrain overshoot in near term warming](https://www.igsd.org/publications/beyond-the-single-basket-mindset-a-multi-gas-approach-to-better-constrain-overshoot-in-near-term-warming/) - The remaining carbon budget framework tracks progress towards the Paris Agreement's goal to limit longer-term warming to well below 2 °C, but no analogous framework exists for constraining mid-century warming. Established single-basket methods of combining gases into CO2-equivalents using Global Warming Potentials (GWPs) lead to ambiguity over what combination of short- and long-lived emissions reductions - [The methane imperative](https://www.igsd.org/publications/the-methane-imperative/) - Anthropogenic methane (CH4) emissions increases from the period 1850–1900 until 2019 are responsible for around 65% as much warming as carbon dioxide (CO2) has caused to date, and large reductions in methane emissions are required to limit global warming to 1.5°C or 2°C. However, methane emissions have been increasing rapidly since ~2006. This study shows - [Keeping it Chill: How to meet cooling demands while cutting emissions](https://www.igsd.org/publications/keeping-it-chill-how-to-meet-cooling-demands-while-cutting-emissions/) - The Global Cooling Watch report, Keeping it Chill: How to meet cooling demands while cutting emissions – by the UN Environment Programme-led Cool Coalition – lays out sustainable cooling measures in three areas: passive cooling, higher-energy efficiency standards, and a faster phase down of climate-warming refrigerants. The report is released in support of the Global Cooling Pledge, a - [Technical note: A method for calculating offsets to ozone depletion and climate impacts of ozone-depleting substances](https://www.igsd.org/publications/a-method-for-calculating-offsets-to-ozone-depletion-and-climate-impacts-of-ozone-depleting-substances/) - By phasing out production and consumption of most ozone-depleting substances (ODSs), the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer (Montreal Protocol) has avoided consequences of increased ultraviolet (UV) radiation and will restore stratospheric ozone to pre-1980 conditions by mid-century, assuming compliance with the phaseout. However, several studies have documented an unexpected increase in - [Brief: The Science Behind the Climate Emergency/Claves Científicas sobre la Emergencia Climática](https://www.igsd.org/publications/brief-the-science-behind-the-climate-emergency/) - Climate change poses an existential threat to humankind. The intertwined nature of climate change and human rights becomes apparent as we witness the adverse effects on various dimensions of human life. To address the climate emergency, we must slow down the rate of warming as much as possible as quickly as possible. Only a dual - [Reduction of Anode Effect Duration in 400kA Prebake Cells](https://www.igsd.org/publications/brief-the-science-behind-the-climate-emergency-claves-cientificas-sobre-la-emergencia-climatica/) - In order to improve energy efficiency and reduce green house gas emissions, the aluminum smelting industry has been continuously working on reducing both anode effect frequency (AEF) and duration (AED). However, there is still a long way to go to achieve zero anode effect (AE) on very high amperage, low specific power consumption cells due - [China’s Ongoing Efforts toAddress Methane Emissions andOpportunities to Further RaiseChina’s Methane Mitigation Ambition](https://www.igsd.org/publications/chinas-ongoing-efforts-toaddress-methane-emissions-andopportunities-to-further-raisechinas-methane-mitigation-ambition/) - Cutting methane emissions is the fastest way to slow warming in the near term and keep the goal of limiting global warming to 1.5°C within reach. Methane plays an increasingly important role in China’s responses to climate change. This paper reviews a number of measures aimed at reducing its methane emissions China has adopted over - [A Primer on Cutting Methane: The Best Strategy for Slowing Warming in the Decade to 2030](https://www.igsd.org/publications/a-primer-on-cutting-methane-the-best-strategy-for-slowing-warming-in-the-decade-to-2030/) - The IGSD Primer on Cutting Methane provides decision-makers with clarity on the science of methane mitigation and why action is urgently needed; current and emerging mitigation opportunities by sector; national, regional, and international efforts that can inform emergency global action on methane; and financing initiatives to secure support for fast methane reduction. This Methane Primer - [Well Under 2 Degrees Celsius: Fast Action Policies to Protect People and the Planet from Extreme Climate Change](https://www.igsd.org/publications/well-under-2-degrees-celsius-fast-action-policies-to-protect-people-and-the-planet-from-extreme-climate-change/) - Climate change is an urgent problem requiring urgent solutions. This report lays out urgent and practical solutions that are ready for implementation now, will deliver benefits in the next few critical decades, and places the world on a path to achieving the longterm targets of the Paris Agreement and near-term sustainable development goals. The solutions consist of four building - [Community Benefits of Local Spending of Money Saved with Super-Efficient Air Conditioning Including New Local Employment](https://www.igsd.org/publications/community-benefits-of-local-spending-of-money-saved-with-super-efficient-air-conditioning-including-new-local-employment/) - This paper presents a pioneering benefit assessment framework and indicative quantification of the community and national benefits of operating cost savings from super-efficient room air conditioning (RAC) that are spent locally and not for imported fuel, electricity, and power plants. It also estimates the benefits of expanded employment to replace and service the new RACs - [Indicative Saving of Up To 70% with Inverter R-32 Replacement Room ACs at The Bank of Africa](https://www.igsd.org/publications/indicative-saving-of-up-to-70-with-inverter-r-32-replacement-room-acs-at-the-bank-of-africa/) - In 2019, the Government of Morocco with industry and non-governmental partners organized the Morocco Banker’s Air Conditioner Buyers Club with an ambition to gain access at a competitive and affordable cost to room air conditioners (RACs) with high-efficiency and low global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants as mandated globally by the Montreal Protocol. In 2020 the - [Speeding Ghana’s Transition to Low-GWP and Energy-Efficient Cooling](https://www.igsd.org/publications/speeding-ghanas-transition-to-low-gwp-and-energy-efficient-cooling/) - This paper describes how the Ghana Energy Commission and the Environmental Protection Agency’s National Ozone Unit have joined forces in a comprehensive strategy to access and implement low-global warming potential (GWP) and energy-efficient cooling technologies that protect the Earth’s climate and stratospheric ozone layer. This strategy, in line with the objectives of the Montreal Protocol - [Post-Paris Pivot to Fast Climate Change Mitigation](https://www.igsd.org/publications/post-paris-pivot-to-fast-climate-change-mitigation/) - This paper explores the question; How Can the U.S. Lead in Paris to Achieve a Climate Agreement We Can Live With? - [China’s Air Pollution Rules: Compliance and Enforcement Lessons From Global Good Practices](https://www.igsd.org/publications/chinas-air-pollution-rules-compliance-and-enforcement-lessons-from-global-good-practices/) - In recent years, air pollution issues have received unprecedented public attention in China. Partly for this reason, the Chinese government has made significant efforts toward reducing air pollution. However, compliance and enforcement will be key to cleaning up the air in China and around the globe. This Article discusses seven specific challenges to achieving effective - [Strengthening Ambition for Climate Mitigation: The Role of the Montreal Protocol in Reducing Short-lived Climate Pollutants](https://www.igsd.org/publications/strengthening-ambition-for-climate-mitigation-the-role-of-the-montreal-protocol-in-reducing-short-lived-climate-pollutants/) - The level of ambition of the public and policy makers to protect the climate is currently far too low to slow the accelerating pace of climate impacts. Ambition can be strengthened using strategies that disaggregate the overall climate problem into manageable pieces, borrow existing laws and institutions to take fast action following a ‘start and - [Enhanced and Localized Life-Cycle Climate Performance Metric for Air Conditioners](https://www.igsd.org/publications/metrics-and-measurements-of-methane-emissions/) - The Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol phases down the production and consumption of hydrofluorocarbon greenhouse gases that were once necessary to rapidly phase out ozone-depleting substances but are no longer needed. The Kigali Amendment complements the emission controls of the UNFCCC Kyoto Protocol and contributes to satisfying the “nationally determined contributions” to reduce greenhouse - [Metrics and Measurements of Methane Emissions](https://www.igsd.org/publications/sample-resource/) - Fast action to mitigate non-CO2 climate pollutants, such as methane, including through implementing methane intensity requirements (such as via procurement specifications) for domestic and imported oil and gas, can have a significant role in reducing the likelihood of triggering catastrophic climate impacts as countries pursue carbon-neutrality goals. Without robust monitoring, reporting, and verification (MRV) of methane emissions, we will not be - [Reducing Abrupt Climate Change Risk Using the Montreal Protocol and Other Regulatory Actions to Complement Cuts in CO2 Emissions](https://www.igsd.org/publications/reducing-abrupt-climate-change-risk-using-the-montreal-protocol-and-other-regulatory-actions-to-complement-cuts-in-co2-emissions/) - Current emissions of anthropogenic greenhouse gases (GHGs) have already committed the planet to an increase in average surface temperature by the end of the century that may be above the critical threshold for tipping elements of the climate system into abrupt change with potentially irreversible and unmanageable consequences. This would mean that the climate system - [Integrated Assessment of Black Carbon and Tropospheric Ozone](https://www.igsd.org/publications/integrated-assessment-of-black-carbon-and-tropospheric-ozone/) - The Integrated Assessment of Black Carbon and Tropospheric Ozone addresses the short-lived cli- mate forcers (SLCFs) that also have an impact on air quality. Its findings on both the state of scientific knowledge and existing policy options to cut emissions come from 50 authors convened by UNEP and WMO. Previous assessments have often studied either - [Mobile Air Conditioning and Room Air Conditioning Strategy to Reduce Climate Forcing from Hydrofluorocarbons](https://www.igsd.org/publications/mobile-air-conditioning-and-room-air-conditioning-strategy-to-reduce-climate-forcing-from-hydrofluorocarbons/) - [The Importance of Phasing Down HFCs and Other Short-lived Climate Pollutants](https://www.igsd.org/publications/the-importance-of-phasing-down-hydrofluorocarbons-and-other-short-lived-climate-pollutants/) - While negotiations continue for a United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) by December 2015 to take effect in 2020, a parallel effort to achieve fast climate mitigation is needed under the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer (Montreal Protocol) to slow current impacts and reduce risks of passing tipping points - [Stratospheric Ozone, Global Warming, and the Principle of Unintended Consequences](https://www.igsd.org/publications/stratospheric-ozone-global-warming-and-the-principle-of-unintended-consequences/) - Stratospheric ozone, global warming, and the principle of unintended consequences—An ongoing science and policy success story. - [The Role of HFCs in Mitigating 21st Century Climate Change](https://www.igsd.org/publications/the-role-of-hfcs-in-mitigating-21st-century-climate-change/) - There is growing international interest in mitigating climate change during the early part of this century by reducing emissions of short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs), in addition to reducing emissions of CO2. The SLCPs include methane (CH4), black carbon aerosols (BC), tropospheric ozone (O3) and hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs). Recent studies have estimated that by mitigating emissions of - [A comprehensive approach for reducing anthropogenic climate impacts including risk of abrupt climate changes](https://www.igsd.org/publications/a-comprehensive-approach-for-reducing-anthropogenic-climate-impacts-including-risk-of-abrupt-climate-changes/) - A report by the working group commissioned by the Pontifical Academy of Sciences. Annual greenhouse gases emissions in 2010 were at their highest recorded level in spite of a global recession. The risk is growing that the climate system could pass tipping points that lead to abrupt and irreversible impacts on a continental scale, perhaps - [Alternatives to High-GWP Hydrofluorocarbons](https://www.igsd.org/publications/alternatives-to-high-gwp-hydrofluorocarbons/) - This assessment report aims to give a concise and accessible picture of the current availability of alternatives to high-global warming potential (GWP) hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) in their main uses with the elaboration of their efficiency, cost-effectiveness, safety, environmental impacts, and technical performance, as well as their applicability at high ambient temperatures, with the goal of better - [A Global Response to HFCs through Fair and Effective Ozone and Climate Policies](https://www.igsd.org/publications/a-global-response-to-hfcs-through-fair-and-effective-ozone-and-climate-policies/) - This research paper draws on the discussions at a workshop held at Chatham House in April 2014, outlines the main issues around the question of how best to craft a fair and effective global response to the growth in HFC use. A number of key issues are central to the debate: the principle of equity between - [Patents and the Role of the Multilateral Fund](https://www.igsd.org/publications/patents-and-the-role-of-the-multilateral-fund/) - Parties to the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer are considering actions to phase down hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) because of their contributions to climate change. One important issue raised by Article 5 Parties1 is the concern that patents on recently developed low-global warming alternatives could restrict access to or increase the costs of - [Technological Change in the Production Sector under the Montreal Protocol](https://www.igsd.org/publications/technological-change-in-the-production-sector-under-the-montreal-protocol/) - With negotiations under the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer (Montreal Protocol) considering limits on hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) as potent greenhouse gases, this paper examines past transitions during the relatively short, but dynamic history of this international treaty. It focuses on past shifts from chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) to hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) to HFCs, with the - [Amending the Montreal Protocol: Summary of amendment proposals and discussion of key components to phasing down HFCs](https://www.igsd.org/publications/amending-the-montreal-protocol-summary-of-amendment-proposals-and-discussion-of-key-components-to-phasing-down-hfcs/) - This paper discusses key aspects of proposed amendments for phasing down HFCs under the Montreal Protocol, including the North American proposal, Micronesian proposal, and the European Union discussion paper. It also discusses key features that could be included in a proposal to phase down HFCs under the Montreal Protocol, including control measures, grace periods, financial - [Reducing Stress on India’s Energy Grid: The Power Sector Benefits of Transitioning to Lower Global Warming Potential and Energy Efficient Refrigerants in Room Air Conditioners](https://www.igsd.org/publications/reducing-stress-on-indias-energy-grid-the-power-sector-benefits-of-transitioning-to-lower-global-warming-potential-and-energy-efficient-refrigerants-in-room-air-conditioners/) - This interim draft paper explores the energy efficiency and power sector benefits of air conditioning companies in India to “leapfrog” and phase down high GWP. - [The Extraordinary Experience of Building the Montreal Protocol, Lessons Learned, and Hopes for Future Climate Change Efforts](https://www.igsd.org/publications/the-extraordinary-experience-of-building-the-montreal-protocol-lessons-learned-and-hopes-for-future-climate-change-efforts/) - This special issue on Ozone Layer Protection and Climate Change reflects the leadership of the Association of Environmental Studies and Sciences (AESS) in drawing interdisciplinary attention to important environmental issues. The authors are scientists, diplomats, regulatory authorities, environmental activists, and scholars who are intimately involved in actions that protect the stratospheric ozone layer and climate. - [Lessons from the Stratospheric Ozone Layer Protection for Climate](https://www.igsd.org/publications/lessons-from-the-stratospheric-ozone-layer-protection-for-climate/) - Ozone protection was the result of professional confidence and sacrifice; brilliant interdisciplinary science and the good fortune of an ozone hole with no explanation other than manufactured fluorocarbons; and industry and government leadership inspired by the realization that life on earth was in jeopardy. In response to the 1974 warning by Dr. Mario Molina and - [Phasing Down the Use of Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs)](https://www.igsd.org/publications/phasing-down-the-use-of-hydrofluorocarbons-hfcs/) - This New Climate Economy Working Paper was written as a supporting document for the 2015 report of the Global Commission on the Economy and Climate, Seizing the Global Opportunity: Partnerships for Better Growth and a Better Climate. It reflects the research conducted for Section 2.10 of the full report and is part of a series - [Alternative Refrigerant Evaluation for High-Ambient-Temperature Environments: R-22 and R-410A Alternatives for Mini-Split Air Conditioners](https://www.igsd.org/publications/alternative-refrigerant-evaluation-for-high-ambient-temperature-environments-r-22-and-r-410a-alternatives-for-mini-split-air-conditioners/) - The Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) High-Ambient-Temperature Evaluation Program for low– global warming potential (Low-GWP) Refrigerants aims to develop an understanding of the performance of low-GWP alternative refrigerants to hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) and hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerants in mini-split air conditioners under high-ambient-temperature conditions. This final report describes the parties involved, the alternative refrigerant selection process, the - [Short-Lived Promise? The Science and Policy of Cumulative and Short-Lived Climate Pollutants](https://www.igsd.org/publications/short-lived-promise-the-science-and-policy-of-cumulative-and-short-lived-climate-pollutants/) - This policy paper provides a non-technical overview of these issues and sets out policy recommendations as countries and companies prepare for the 21st Session of the Conference of the Parties to the UNFCCC, to be held in Paris in December 2015. in doing so, the paper explains how the ‘short-lived’ versus ‘long-lived’ discussion is not - [Examining Patents for Alternatives to Hydrofluorocarbons in India](https://www.igsd.org/publications/examining-patents-for-alternatives-to-hydrofluorocarbons-in-india/) - Patents and other intellectual property such as know how are a complex issue for policy makers and civil society experts, especially considering the large number of patents involved and the sensitivity and confidentiality around licensing agreements. This paper does not attempt to find a solution to the patent debate. Rather, it examines developing country experiences - [Benefits of Leapfrogging to Superefficiency and Low Global Warming Potential Refrigerants in Room Air Conditioning](https://www.igsd.org/publications/benefits-of-leapfrogging-to-superefficiency-and-low-global-warming-potential-refrigerants-in-room-air-conditioning/) - Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) emitted from uses such as refrigerants and thermal insulating foam, are now the fastest growing greenhouse gases (GHGs), with global warming potentials (GWP) thousands of times higher than carbon dioxide (CO2). Because of the short lifetime of these molecules in the atmosphere, mitigating the amount of these short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs) provides a - [Ambitious Replenishment of the Multilateral Fund for Implementation of the Montreal Protocol Delivers High Impact Climate Benefits at Low Cost](https://www.igsd.org/publications/ambitious-replenishment-of-the-multilateral-fund-for-implementation-of-the-montreal-protocol-delivers-high-impact-climate-benefits-at-low-cost/) - This paper reviews MLF accomplishments, summarizes TEAP assessment of funding required to replenish MLF, and offers analyses of the benefits that could be achieved with more funding. - [Pathways to Prevent Dumping of Climate Harming Room Air Conditioners in Southeast Asia](https://www.igsd.org/publications/pathways-to-prevent-dumping-of-climate-harming-room-air-conditioners-in-southeast-asia/) - In an effort to provide insight into six Southeast Asian (SEA) markets at risk of environmental dumping, CLASP and IGSD assessed the RAC markets for Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. The six countries represent 90% of the regional SEA market. Currently energy efficiency policies in Southeast Asia lag behind the innovation in - [Innovative Technologies for Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Carbon Sequestration Monitoring](https://www.igsd.org/publications/innovative-technologies-for-greenhouse-gas-emissions-and-carbon-sequestration-monitoring/) - There are well-established international standards for GHG monitoring and reporting, notably those under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). This study examines: (i) GHG data monitoring and reporting for mandatory carbon markets based on China’s sector-based reporting standards; (ii) methods and practices related to carbon sequestration measurement; (iii) metrics and measurement standards for - [Trifluoroiodomethane as a Precursor to High Global Warming Potential Climate Pollutants: Could the Transformation of Climatically Benign CF3I into Potent Greenhouse Gases Significantly Increase Refrigerant-Related Greenhouse Gas Emissions?](https://www.igsd.org/publications/trifluoroiodomethane-as-a-precursor-to-high-global-warming-potential-climate-pollutants-could-the-transformation-of-climatically-benign-cf3i-into-potent-greenhouse-gases-significantly-increase-refrig/) - The transition away from the production and consumption of high global warming potential (GWP) hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) under the 2016 Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer has prompted air conditioning, refrigeration, and heat pump equipment manufacturers to seek alternative refrigerants with lower direct climate impacts. Additional factors affecting alternative - [Greening Cold Chain Infrastructure to Develop Global Food Corridors: Accelerating the Achievement of the 2030 Agenda](https://www.igsd.org/publications/greening-cold-chain-infrastructure-to-develop-global-food-corridors-accelerating-the-achievement-of-the-2030-agenda/) - Each year, one-third of the total food for human consumption is either lost or wasted even as millions worldwide experience food insecurity. Similarly, over 25 percent of vaccines are wasted each year while millions die from vaccine-preventable illnesses Sustainable cold chain infrastructure can significantly reduce post-harvest food loss and vaccine wastage and deliver social and - [Developing a Global Nitrous Oxide Reduction Policy for A Food-Secure Future](https://www.igsd.org/publications/developing-a-global-nitrous-oxide-reduction-policy-for-a-food-secure-future/) - Multilateral approaches to nitrogen pollution are generating synergies between climate change and food security and presenting opportunities to reduce nitrous oxide (N2O) globally. N2O is the most abundant ozone-depleting substance not yet regulated by the Montreal Protocol and a powerful greenhouse gas. Failure to reduce emissions will delay ozone layer recovery and worsen the climate - [Low Carbon Development Pathways for Cooling: Leveraging Kigali Amendment Across Residential Applications](https://www.igsd.org/publications/low-carbon-development-pathways-for-cooling-leveraging-kigali-amendment-across-residential-applications/) - Heating and cooling demand for space conditioning and refrigeration accounts for around a fifth of global final energy consumption. Climate change, urbanization, and economic development have tripled electricity demand for cooling alone since the 1990s, with the majority coming from the use of inefficient cooling equipment, which burdens electricity grids, especially during peak hours. It - [From Planning to Action: Rethinking the Role of Cities in Accelerating Net-Zero Transitions](https://www.igsd.org/publications/from-planning-to-action-rethinking-the-role-of-cities-in-accelerating-net-zero-transitions/) - Cities are responsible for over 70 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions and 75 percent of primary energy consumption. By 2050, over two-thirds of the world population will live in cities, resulting in even greater infrastructure needs and increased carbon emissions. Yet, cities largely remain on the sidelines in the design of national and international - [Military Leadership Spun Off to Civilian Sectors Protects Global Security](https://www.igsd.org/publications/military-leadership-spun-off-to-civilian-sectors-protects-global-security/) - This paper recalls and documents the military leadership under the Montreal Protocol, presents indicative case studies of how technical performance of military systems was maintained or improved by adopting newer technologies and summarizes key lessons from military leadership in protecting the ozone layer. In addition to collaboration on technology development and demonstration, between 1991 and - [Fluorinated Gasses](https://www.igsd.org/publications/fluorinated-gasses/) - The chapter covers fluorinated GHGs, namely hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs). The Deep Decarbonization Pathways Project reports seek to reduce HFC and hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) emissions in the United States by 96 million metric tons (MMT) CO2 equivalent (CO2eq) by 2050. HFCs replaced chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and HCFCs that have been phased out under the Montreal Protocol on Substances That Deplete the Ozone - [Bending the Curve](https://www.igsd.org/publications/bending-the-curve/) - Over the past half century, California has provided a remarkable example for the world by achieving dramatic reductions in air pollution, while continuing to grow economically. In this report, we propose a set of strategies for combating climate change and growing the economy in California, the nation and the world, while building present-day and intergenerational - [Opportunities for Simultaneous Efficiency Improvement and Refrigerant Transition in Air Conditioning](https://www.igsd.org/publications/opportunities-for-simultaneous-efficiency-improvement-and-refrigerant-transition-in-air-conditioning/) - In October of 2016, nearly 200 Parties agreed to amend the Montreal Protocol in Kigali, Rwanda, to phase-down consumption and production of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) by 2050. Growth in the use of HFCs, including those currently used as refrigerants in air-conditioning systems, is being driven by demand from emerging economies, hot climates, and rising incomes that - [The Global Search and Commercialization of Alternatives and Substitutes for Ozone Depleting Substances](https://www.igsd.org/publications/the-global-search-and-commercialization-of-alternatives-and-substitutes-for-ozone-depleting-substances/) - The Montreal Protocol has halted 99% of global production of chemical substances that deplete stratospheric ozone, which protects life on earth from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UVB) radiation. UVB causes skin cancer and cataracts, suppresses the human immune system, destroys plastics, and damages agricultural crops and natural ecosystems. Because ozone-depleting substances (ODSs) are powerful - [Defining the Legal and Policy Framework to Stop the Dumping of Environmentally Harmful Products](https://www.igsd.org/publications/defining-the-legal-and-policy-framework-to-stop-the-dumping-of-environmentally-harmful-products/) - Environmental dumping is a practice historically associated with the export of hazardous product waste from a developed country for irresponsible and often illegal disposal in a developing country. Now, with the industrialization and globalization of China and other developing countries, environmental dumping can involve both developing and developed countries as origin and destination. This dumping - [Life-Cycle Climate Performance Metrics and Room AC Carbon Footprint](https://www.igsd.org/publications/life-cycle-climate-performance-metrics-and-room-ac-carbon-footprint/) - The comprehensive carbon metric accounts for the fact that AC electricity use and the integrated carbon intensity of that electricity can be up to 48% higher than estimated using national “average” assumptions. Taking real-world operating conditions and the actual carbon intensity of electricity generation, transmission, and distribution at the end-use into consideration provides for a - [The Kigali Amendment’s and China’s Critical Roles in Evolving the Montreal Protocol](https://www.igsd.org/publications/the-kigali-amendments-and-chinas-critical-roles-in-evolving-the-montreal-protocol/) - The following is a review of the continuing evolution of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer, including the Kigali Amendment’s critical role in evolving the Montreal Protocol into a full-fledged climate treaty. Before the Kigali Amendment, the Montreal Protocol controlled about 100 ozone-depleting substances including chlorofluorocarbons and hydrochlorofluorocarbons, which are powerful - [Improving Air Conditioners in India](https://www.igsd.org/publications/improving-air-conditioners-in-india/) - Urbanization, rising temperatures, and more frequent heat waves in India are driving cooling demand higher. Further, as living standards rise and electricity reaches more homes across India, sales of room air conditioners (ACs) are growing. The room AC stock has skyrocketed from 2 million units in 2006 to approximately 30 million units in 2017. Air conditioners are now - [Market Report Series: Energy Efficiency 2018](https://www.igsd.org/publications/market-report-series-energy-efficiency-2018/) - Energy Efficiency 2018, the sixth edition in the IEA Market Report Series, is the global tracker of trends and indicators in energy efficiency and an invaluable resource for energy efficiency policy makers and market actors. This year’s report provides a special feature in the form of a new World Energy Outlook Efficient World Scenario, which answers the - [The Future of Cooling: Opportunities for energy- efficient air conditioning](https://www.igsd.org/publications/the-future-of-cooling-opportunities-for-energy-efficient-air-conditioning/) - The International Energy Agency (IEA) is shining a spotlight on some of the blind spots of energy policy – issues that get little attention but are of crucial importance. The growth in global demand for space cooling is such a blind spot: it is one of the most critical yet often overlooked energy issues of - [Chilling Prospects: Providing Sustainable Cooling for All](https://www.igsd.org/publications/chilling-prospects-providing-sustainable-cooling-for-all/) - This report is the first to define and quantify the magnitude of the cooling access challenge, including an assessment of countries facing the biggest risks, measured by extreme heat, food losses, and damaged or destroyed vaccines and medicines. The report illustrates the social and economic risks of ignoring the challenge and the enormous economic and - [A Cool World – Defining the Energy Conundrum of ‘Cooling for All’](https://www.igsd.org/publications/a-cool-world-defining-the-energy-conundrum-of-cooling-for-all/) - Cooling is finally coming in from the cold. After many years on the side lines of the energy debate, the importance of cooling to modern ways of living for all, but also the damage it causes to the environment and our health, is being recognised. And so it should be sustainable, affordable artificial cooling with - [Bending the Curve: Climate Change Solutions, Technologies for Super Pollutant Mitigation](https://www.igsd.org/publications/bending-the-curve-climate-change-solutions-technologies-for-super-pollutant-mitigation/) - Chapter 15: Technologies for Super Pollutant Mitigation The chapter explore a complementary climate solution to CO2 reductions: reducing a key group of warming agents knows as super pollutants or short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs) to bend the warming curve quickly (over a few decades) while we pursue CO2 mitigation to bend the curve in the long term (over several decades to - [Mobile Air Conditioning: The Life-Cycle and Greenhouse- Gas Benefits of Switching to Alternative Refrigerants and Improving System Efficiencies](https://www.igsd.org/publications/mobile-air-conditioning-the-life-cycle-and-greenhouse-gas-benefits-of-switching-to-alternative-refrigerants-and-improving-system-efficiencies/) - Mobile air conditioning (MAC) systems are a significant source of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from vehicles. This study, conducted by the International Council on Clean Transportation in partnership with IGSD, examines the GHG benefits and costs of switching to improved refrigerants and more efficient AC systems. This research is intended to support implementation of the - [Cooling in a Warming World](https://www.igsd.org/publications/cooling-in-a-warming-world/) - In a warming world cooling will be increasingly important for people’s health and productivity, and for achievement of many of the SDGs. However, growing demand for cooling will, if current approaches are continued, contribute significantly to further global warming, both from the emissions of HFCs and other refrigerants, and from the CO2 and black carbon emissions - [Global Linkages: A graphic look at the changing Arctic](https://www.igsd.org/publications/global-linkages-a-graphic-look-at-the-changing-arctic/) - The new report is a set of maps and graphics, accompanied by short narratives to synthesize and illustrate the most critical, connected environmental challenges with Arctic and global relevance and focusing on issues which call for common solutions. The graphics builds on Arctic and global environmental assessments and reflect the dynamic connection between the Arctic - [Benefits of Energy Efficient and Low-Global Warming Potential Refrigerant Cooling Equipment](https://www.igsd.org/publications/benefits-of-energy-efficient-and-low-global-warming-potential-refrigerant-cooling-equipment/) - This report quantifies the GHG benefits of implementing aggressive but economic energy efficiency measures (about 30% more efficient than current technology) in air- conditioning (AC) and large commercial refrigeration equipment (CRE) together with low-GWP refrigerants. Shifting the 2030 world stock of room ACs and CRE from current levels of energy- efficiency and high-GWP refrigerants to - [Environmentally Harmful Dumping of Inefficient and Obsolete Air Conditioners in Africa](https://www.igsd.org/publications/environmentally-harmful-dumping-of-inefficient-and-obsolete-air-conditioners-in-africa/) - The demand for air conditioners that provide thermal comfort is steadily growing across the African continent as consumers seek to improve their quality of life in the face of urbanization and rising global temperatures. Since 2016, Africa’s market for new split room air conditioners has grown by approximately 5%, annually. As manufacturing and industrialized economies - [Chinese policy leadership would cool global air conditioning impacts: Looking east](https://www.igsd.org/publications/chinese-policy-leadership-would-cool-global-air-conditioning-impacts-looking-east/) - The International Energy Agency expects the global stock of room air conditioners (RACs) to triple between today and 2050, with critical implications for energy use and greenhouse gas emissions. Because China produces approximately 70% of the world’s RACs, it is in a unique position to lead a global transition to higher-efficiency RACs with substantially lower - [Well Under 2 °C: Ten Solutions for Carbon Neutrality and Climate Stability](https://www.igsd.org/publications/well-under-2-c-ten-solutions-for-carbon-neutrality-and-climate-stability/) - Chapter 25 in Health of People, Health of Planet and Our Responsibility: Climate Change, Air Pollution and Health (Al-Delaimy, W. K., Ramanathan, & V., Sorondo, M. S. eds). Springer, Cham. Pages 321-331. Climate change is becoming an existential threat with warming in excess of 2 °C within the next three decades and 4–6 °C within the next several - [Assessment of Climate and Development Benefits of Efficient and Climate-Friendly Cooling](https://www.igsd.org/publications/assessment-of-climate-and-development-benefits-of-efficient-and-climate-friendly-cooling/) - The global phasedown of hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerants under the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol will make a crucial contribution to slowing climate change and meeting the goals of the 2015 Paris Agreement. An even faster phasedown could be achieved with a more extensive replacement of high-GWP HFCs with commercially available low-GWP alternatives in refrigeration - [The Moroccan Perspective on the Importance of High Energy Efficiency During the Refrigerant Transition](https://www.igsd.org/publications/the-moroccan-perspective-on-the-importance-of-high-energy-efficiency-during-the-refrigerant-transition/) - This paper explains how Moroccan government authorities are cooperating with international organizations in finding the way forward with a combination of more stringent Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS), private and public AC Buyers Clubs, and economic incentives such as import duties that favour efficiency and caps the global warming potential (GWP) of refrigerants used in - [Cooling Emissions and Policy Synthesis Report](https://www.igsd.org/publications/cooling-emissions-and-policy-synthesis-report/) - By combining energy efficiency improvements with the transition away from super-polluting refrigerants, the world could avoid cumulative greenhouse gas emissions of up to 210-460 gigatonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (GtCO2e) over the next four decades, depending on future rates of decarbonisation. This is roughly equal to 4-8 years of total annual global greenhouse gas emissions, - [Glasgow Climate Summit: COP26](https://www.igsd.org/publications/glasgow-climate-summit-cop26/) - This chapter provides open-access teaching materials for COP 26 — the Glasgow Climate Summit — held in November 2021. It was written as a supplement to the 6th edition of the casebook, International Environmental Law and Policy, but can be used as a stand-alone assignment for any environmental law course. It contains separate sections on Finishing - [Global Methane Assessment](https://www.igsd.org/publications/global-methane-assessment/) - The Global Methane Assessment shows that human-caused methane emissions can be reduced by up to 45 per cent this decade. Such reductions would avoid nearly 0.3°C of global warming by 2045 and would be consistent with keeping the Paris Climate Agreement’s goal to limit global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius (1.5˚C) within reach. The assessment, for - [Status of Patents and Legal Challenges: Patents Related to the Use of HFO-1234yf in Auto Air Conditioning](https://www.igsd.org/publications/status-of-patents-and-legal-challenges-patents-related-to-the-use-of-hfo-1234yf-in-auto-air-conditioning/) - This paper addresses what has been described as a primary concern related to patents: even if chemical companies in Montreal Protocol Article 5 Parties can develop their own methods of producing low-GWP refrigerant hydrofluoroolefin (HFO) or using them in the products they make, they could be prevented (absent a license) from selling their products at home - [Narrowing feedstock exemptions under the Montreal Protocol has multiple environmental benefits](https://www.igsd.org/publications/narrowing-feedstock-exemptions-under-the-montreal-protocol-has-multiple-environmental-benefits/) - The Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer (Montreal Protocol) can be further strengthened to control ozone-depleting substances and hydrofluorocarbons used as feedstocks to provide additional protection of the stratospheric ozone layer and the climate system while also mitigating plastics pollution. The feedstock exemptions were premised on the assumption that feedstocks presented an - [Three Decades of Climate Mitigation: Why Haven't We Bent the Global Emissions Curve?](https://www.igsd.org/publications/three-decades-of-climate-mitigation-why-havent-we-bent-the-global-emissions-curve/) - Despite three decades of political efforts and a wealth of research on the causes and catastrophic impacts of climate change, global carbon dioxide emissions have continued to rise and are 60% higher today than they were in 1990. Exploring this rise through nine thematic lenses—covering issues of climate governance, the fossil fuel industry, geopolitics, economics, - [An Opportunity that Should Not be Missed: Applying Chinese Policy that Promotes Efficient Air Conditioning to Countries that Need It](https://www.igsd.org/publications/an-opportunity-that-should-not-be-missed-applying-chinese-policy-that-promotes-efficient-air-conditioning-to-countries-that-need-it/) - As the world warms, the growing use of air conditioners (“ACs”) and other cooling equipment becomes essential for human comfort and public health. In addition, cooling-equipment energy and refrigerant consumption also presents tremendous climate mitigation opportunities. This article highlights China’s “Same Line, Same Standard and Same Quality” policy (“Same-Line Policy” or “Policy”), intended to support - [The Precautionary Principle and the Environment: A Case Study of an Immediate Global Response to the Molina and Rowland Warning](https://www.igsd.org/publications/the-precautionary-principle-and-the-environment-a-case-study-of-an-immediate-global-response-to-the-molina-and-rowland-warning/) - In 1974, Mario J. Molina and F. Sherwood Rowland warned that chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) could destroy the stratospheric ozone layer, which protects Earth against the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation [Molina and Rowland Nature 1974, 249, 810]. In 1975, Ramanathan warned that CFCs are powerful greenhouse gases (GHGs) and would rival carbon dioxide (CO2) in causing - [A comprehensive review of life cycle climate performance (LCCP) for air conditioning systems](https://www.igsd.org/publications/a-comprehensive-review-of-life-cycle-climate-performance-lccp-for-air-conditioning-systems/) - Life Cycle Climate Performance (LCCP) is a widely accepted metric to evaluate the carbon footprint of air conditioning (AC) systems “from cradle to grave.” This paper: (1) reviews the invention and evolution of LCCP, including a comprehensive timeline and bibliography; (2) documents the successful application of LCCP in the replacement of HFC-410A with HFC-32 in - [Investing in US Energy Efficiency and Infrastructure Creates More Nationally-Distributed Jobs while Saving Money and Protecting the Climate](https://www.igsd.org/publications/investing-in-us-energy-efficiency-and-infrastructure-creates-more-nationally-distributed-jobs-while-saving-money-and-protecting-the-climate/) - This paper explains how investing in energy efficiency increases net employment, including as a result of the money saved by energy efficiency improvements being spent locally in support of household and community development. This higher efficiency also allows a sustained improvement in the quality of life with cleaner air, better health, less damage from climate - [Recommendations for Climate Friendly Refrigerant Management and Procurement](https://www.igsd.org/publications/recommendations-for-climate-friendly-refrigerant-management-and-procurement/) - This document is the updated edition of the Recommendations for Climate Friendly Refrigerant Management and Procurement authored by the SPLC Climate Friendly Refrigerant Action Team. The Climate Friendly Refrigerant Action Team is dedicated to investigating global regulatory and voluntary programs to avoid and/or reduce emissions from high global warming potential (GWP) HFCs. This document identifies - [The 90 Billion Ton Opportunity](https://www.igsd.org/publications/the-90-billion-ton-opportunity/) - Today, built into each cooling appliance and insulating foam in nearly every household, building, and car in America and across most of the world, there sits a type of fluorinated gas called a hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) and/or a hydrofluorocarbon (HFC). When leaked out into the atmosphere, HCFCs cause the depletion of Earth’s ozone layer and both - [Setting the Stage for Climate Action Under the Montreal Protocol](https://www.igsd.org/publications/setting-the-stage-for-climate-action-under-the-montreal-protocol/) - This evaluation identifies the 12 papers that formed the scientific foundation for the Montreal Protocol parties to take bold steps to phase down HFCs via the Kigali Amendment. These thoroughly researched and clearly presented scientific papers, which were among those contributing to SAP presentations at Meetings of the Parties and were directly read and considered by - [Scenarios for future Indian HFC demand compared to the Kigali Amendment](https://www.igsd.org/publications/scenarios-for-future-indian-hfc-demand-compared-to-the-kigali-amendment/) - Demand for hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerants used as substitutes for ozone-depleting substances is growing in India and is estimated to continue growing at a high rate through the middle of this century. HFCs, although not directly ozone-depleting, are highly potent greenhouse gases subject to a global phasedown under the 2016 Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol - [Fast action on short-lived climate pollutants and nature-based solutions to help countries meet carbon neutrality goals](https://www.igsd.org/publications/fast-action-on-short-lived-climate-pollutants-and-nature-based-solutions-to-help-countries-meet-carbon-neutrality-goals/) - Scientific studies show that fast actions to reduce near-term warming are essential to slowing self-reinforcing climate feedbacks and avoiding irreversible tipping points. Yet cutting CO2 emissions only marginally impacts near-term warming. This study identifies two of the most effective mitigation strategies to limit near-term warming beyond CO2 mitigation, namely reducing short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs) and promoting targeted - [Mitigating climate disruption in time: A self-consistent approach for avoiding both near-term and long-term global warming](https://www.igsd.org/publications/mitigating-climate-disruption-in-time-a-self-consistent-approach-for-avoiding-both-near-term-and-long-term-global-warming/) - The ongoing and projected impacts from human-induced climate change highlight the need for mitigation approaches to limit warming in both the near term (2050). We clarify the role of non-CO2 greenhouse gases and aerosols in the context of near-term and long-term climate mitigation, as well as the net effect of decarbonization - [The Importance of Stopping Environmental Dumping in Ghana: The Case of Inefficient New and Used Cooling Appliances with Obsolete Refrigerants](https://www.igsd.org/publications/the-importance-of-stopping-environmental-dumping-in-ghana-the-case-of-inefficient-new-and-used-cooling-appliances-with-obsolete-refrigerants/) - Environmentally harmful product dumping (“environmental dumping”) of new and used low-efficiency cooling appliances with obsolete ozone-depleting and greenhouse gas refrigerants in African countries impoverishes communities, hinders economic development, threatens ecological systems, and harms public health. The use of lowefficiency cooling appliances increases energy demand, leading to higher power plant emissions and limiting affordable energy access - [A Call to Stop Burning Forests in the Name of Climate Mitigation](https://www.igsd.org/publications/a-call-to-stop-burning-forests-in-the-name-of-climate-mitigation/) - Burning trees for energy delivers a one-two punch against climate change mitigation efforts. Harvesting woody biomass reduces the sequestration potential of forest carbon sinks, while the combustion of woody biomass releases large quantities of carbon into the air. Forest regrowth may not offset these emissions for many decades —well beyond the time the world has - [Powering Climate Solutions](https://www.igsd.org/publications/powering-climate-solutions/) - Issue of Our Planet, the magazine of the United Nations Environment Programme. - [Preserving Montreal Protocol Climate Benefits by Limiting HFCs](https://www.igsd.org/publications/preserving-montreal-protocol-climate-benefits-by-limiting-hfcs/) - Inclusion of HFCs under the Montreal Protocol offers a path, starting in the short term, to preserve the climate benefits already achieved by this treaty. - [The Montreal Protocol and the Green Economy](https://www.igsd.org/publications/the-montreal-protocol-and-the-green-economy/) - Assessing the contributions and co-benefits of the Montreal Protocol treaty. - [Unpacking the Problem](https://www.igsd.org/publications/unpacking-the-problem/) - Issue of Our Planet, the magazine of the United Nations Environment Programme. - [Cooling India with Less Warming: The Business Case for Phasing Down HFCs in Room and Vehicle Air Conditioners](https://www.igsd.org/publications/cooling-india-with-less-warming-the-business-case-for-phasing-down-hfcs-in-room-and-vehicle-air-conditioners/) - This paper explores the business case for Indian AC companies to phase down HFCs and move to a future based on climate-friendly refrigerants and energy-efficient equipment designs. - [Enforcement Strategies for Combating the Illegal Trade in HCFCs and Methyl Bromide](https://www.igsd.org/publications/enforcement-strategies-for-combating-the-illegal-trade-in-hcfcs-and-methyl-bromide/) - Highlights the importance of national enforcement against illegal trade in ensuring reductions in the emission of chemicals that damage the ozone layer and the climate system. - [Cooling with Less Warming: Improving Air Conditioners in India](https://www.igsd.org/publications/cooling-with-less-warming-improving-air-conditioners-in-india/) - This factsheet provides an overview of the growing Indian AC market, strategies to advance climate- friendly ACs, and market opportunities under the Montreal Protocol. ## Map Directory - [Sean Dennis](https://www.igsd.org/map_directory/sean-dennis-platanillo-costa-rica/) - [Dr. Gabrielle Dreyfus](https://www.igsd.org/map_directory/gabrielle-dreyfus-washington-dc/) - [Dr. Stephen O. Andersen](https://www.igsd.org/map_directory/stephen-andersen-surry-virginia/) - [Dr. Julie Miller](https://www.igsd.org/map_directory/julie-miller-bellingham-washington/) - [Durwood Zaelke](https://www.igsd.org/map_directory/durwood-zaelke-washington-dc/) - [Tad Ferris](https://www.igsd.org/map_directory/tad-ferris-washington-dc/) - [Romina Picolotti](https://www.igsd.org/map_directory/romina-picolotti-jupiter-florida/) - [Maxime Beaugrand](https://www.igsd.org/map_directory/maxime-beaugrand-london-uk/) - [Mohamed Rida Derder](https://www.igsd.org/map_directory/mohamed-rida-derder-marrakesh-morocco/) - [Xiaopu Sun](https://www.igsd.org/map_directory/xiaopu-sun-metuchen-new-jersey/) - [Zerin Osho](https://www.igsd.org/map_directory/zerin-osho-new-delhi-india/) - [Matthew Stilwell](https://www.igsd.org/map_directory/matthew-stilwell-hobart-tasmania/) ## Op-Eds - [A Nord Stream disaster every day](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/a-nord-stream-disaster-every-day/) - [Las tormentas de nuestros nietos (10 años despues)](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/las-tormentas-de-nuestros-nietos-10-anos-despues/) - [This is the do-or-die decade for climate change, world scientists warn](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/this-is-the-do-or-die-decade-for-climate-change-world-scientists-warn/) - [Breaking the ice: How India can help save the Arctic](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/breaking-the-ice-how-india-can-help-save-the-arctic/) - [Saving the Ozone Layer: Our Best Blueprint for the Climate Crisis](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/saving-the-ozone-layer-our-best-blueprint-for-the-climate-crisis/) - [The Climate Kids Are All Right — At Least in Montana, Following a Constitutional Victory](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/the-climate-kids-are-all-right-at-least-in-montana-following-a-constitutional-victory/) - [PM Modi in France: On Bastille Day, a climate pledge](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/pm-modi-in-france-on-bastille-day-a-climate-pledge/) - [Narendra Modi invité du 14 Juillet: «Vers une coalition franco-indienne pour la protection de l’Arctique ?»](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/narendra-modi-invite-du-14-juillet-vers-une-coalition-franco-indienne-pour-la-protection-de-larctique/) - [A Melting Arctic Will Bring Climate Disaster Without Urgent Action](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/a-melting-arctic-will-bring-climate-disaster-without-urgent-action/) - [Will Modi’s US Visit Provide a Cooling Solution to a Warming Planet?](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/will-modis-us-visit-provide-a-cooling-solution-to-a-warming-planet/) - [Can the UAE help get a planet-saving methane deal at COP28?](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/can-the-uae-help-get-a-planet-saving-methane-deal-at-cop28/) - [A global methane agreement can prevent climate chaos](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/a-global-methane-agreement-can-prevent-climate-chaos/) - [COP27: A global methane agreement can prevent climate catastrophe](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/cop27-a-global-methane-agreement-can-prevent-climate-catastrophe/) - [New abnormal: 2022 should be a cooler year — but keeps breaking heat records](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/new-abnormal-2022-should-be-a-cooler-year-but-keeps-breaking-heat-records/) - [Can we beat the heat — or is this the beginning of the end?](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/can-we-beat-the-heat-or-is-this-the-beginning-of-the-end/) - [Russia’s war on Ukraine underscores the importance of curbing methane emissions](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/russias-war-on-ukraine-underscores-the-importance-of-curbing-methane-emissions/) - [West Virginia vs. EPA: A political tragedy disguised as a legal farce](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/west-virginia-vs-epa-a-political-tragedy-disguised-as-a-legal-farce/) - [Dix ans pour remporter le sprint climatique](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/dix-ans-pour-remporter-le-sprint-climatique/) - [Hurricane hell and climate punishment](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/hurricane-hell-and-climate-punishment/) - [Cut Methane Now or Doom the Planet](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/cut-methane-now-or-doom-the-planet/) - [SEC proposed disclosure: Worsening climate change is no longer an acceptable business model](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/sec-proposed-disclosure-worsening-climate-change-is-no-longer-an-acceptable-business-model/) - [US Arctic Report Card is incomplete without tackling solutions](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/us-arctic-report-card-is-incomplete-without-tackling-solutions/) - [The good, the bad, and the ugly of climate change in 2021 — but it’s not too late to act](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/the-good-the-bad-and-the-ugly-of-climate-change-in-2021-but-its-not-too-late-to-act/) - [How to Limit Temperature Increases in the Very Near Term](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/how-to-limit-temperature-increases-in-the-very-near-term/) - [Glasgow climate summit: A glass half full](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/glasgow-climate-summit-a-glass-half-full/) - [Es ahora o nunca y el metano es la clave](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/es-ahora-o-nunca-y-el-metano-es-la-clave/) - [A new UN climate architecture is emerging focused on need for speed](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/a-new-un-climate-architecture-is-emerging-focused-on-need-for-speed/) - [Leaked UN climate report underscores growing risks, need for fast action](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/leaked-un-climate-report-underscores-growing-risks-need-for-fast-action/) - [How to fast-track climate action? EPA cutting super pollutant HFCs](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/how-to-fast-track-climate-action-epa-cutting-super-pollutant-hfcs/) - [Global cooling industry transition and China power](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/global-cooling-industry-transition-and-china-power/) - [We have a chance to halt climate change if we stop destroying carbon sinks and cut methane](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/we-have-a-chance-to-halt-climate-change-if-we-stop-destroying-carbon-sinks-and-cut-methane/) - [Slashing emissions by 2050 isn’t enough. We can bring down temperatures now](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/slashing-emissions-by-2050-isnt-enough-we-can-bring-down-temperatures-now/) - [We want to cut global warming in half starting on Earth Day](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/we-want-to-cut-global-warming-in-half-starting-on-earth-day/) - [Un dernier sprint climatique](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/un-dernier-sprint-climatique/) - [Only fast action can cut planetary heating in time](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/only-fast-action-can-cut-planetary-heating-in-time/) - [Debt-for-climate Swaps Can Help Developing Countries Make a Green Recovery](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/debt-for-climate-swaps-can-help-developing-countries-make-a-green-recovery/) - [The Time Bomb at the Top of the World](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/the-time-bomb-at-the-top-of-the-world/) - [Climate-Friendly Cooling Can Slow Global Warming](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/climate-friendly-cooling-can-slow-global-warming/) - [Best path to net zero: Cut short-lived climate pollutants](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/best-path-to-net-zero-cut-short-lived-climate-pollutants/) - [Our Future Depends on the Arctic](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/our-future-depends-on-the-arctic/) - [How to save the Arctic’s moderating role on global warming](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/how-to-save-the-arctics-moderating-role-on-global-warming/) - [Global agreement addressing ozone depletion will also bring large climate benefits](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/global-agreement-addressing-ozone-depletion-will-also-bring-large-climate-benefits/) - [Climate studies say warming may cost US $500 billion a year — it will cost much more](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/climate-studies-say-warming-may-cost-us-500-billion-a-year-it-will-cost-much-more/) - [Climate report understates threat](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/climate-report-understates-threat/) - [Why California summit is make or break for climate safety](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/why-california-summit-is-make-or-break-for-climate-safety/) - [How G-7 Leaders Can Push for Relief to Global Warming](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/how-g-7-leaders-can-push-for-relief-to-global-warming/) - [Canada Takes the Lead on Methane Emissions](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/canada-takes-the-lead-on-methane-emissions/) - [Pour résoudre la crise climatique, Macron doit insuffler un optimisme nouveau : celui de l’urgence!](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/pour-resoudre-la-crise-climatique-macron-doit-insuffler-un-optimisme-nouveau-celui-de-lurgence/) - [Making Our Planet Great, Again, Requires Fast Action](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/making-our-planet-great-again-requires-fast-action/) - [The Montreal Protocol: triumph by treaty](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/the-montreal-protocol-triumph-by-treaty/) - [We can and must govern climate engineering](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/we-can-and-must-govern-climate-engineering/) - [O Brasil na liderança em favor do planeta](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/o-brasil-na-lideranca-em-favor-do-planeta/) - [Montreal Protocol Nearing Epic Climate Win on HFCs](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/montreal-protocol-nearing-epic-climate-win-on-hfcs/) - [How President Obama Became the World’s Leading Climate Champion](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/how-president-obama-became-the-worlds-leading-climate-champion/) - [Nordic Summit Must Help Tame Climate](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/nordic-summit-must-help-tame-climate/) - [G7 Leaders Commit to Cut Near-Term Warming by Reducing HFCs, Other Super Pollutants](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/g7-leaders-commit-to-cut-near-term-warming-by-reducing-hfcs-other-super-pollutants/) - [Post-Paris Pivot to Fast Near-term Climate Mitigation](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/post-paris-pivot-to-fast-near-term-climate-mitigation/) - [Paris deal’s carbon cuts miss critical warming target](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/paris-deals-carbon-cuts-miss-critical-warming-target/) - [Cutting Short-Lived Pollutants Can Give Quick Wins on Warming](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/cutting-short-lived-pollutants-can-give-quick-wins-on-warming/) - [Hydrofluorocarbures il n’y a pas que sur le CO2 qu’il faut freiner !](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/hydrofluorocarbures-il-ny-a-pas-que-sur-le-co2-quil-faut-freiner/) - [Climate Agreement in Paris: Champagne Tonight, Hard Work, Fast Mitigation Tomorrow](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/climate-agreement-in-paris-champagne-tonight-hard-work-fast-mitigation-tomorrow/) - [Countries Agree to Use Montreal Protocol to Phase Down HFCs](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/countries-agree-to-use-montreal-protocol-to-phase-down-hfcs/) - [Giving the Cold Shoulder to Wasteful Air Conditioners](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/giving-the-cold-shoulder-to-wasteful-air-conditioners/) - [Celebrating the Best Climate Treaty of All Time](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/celebrating-the-best-climate-treaty-of-all-time/) - [Reducing Climate Injustice to the Poor Is Within Our Reach](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/reducing-climate-injustice-to-the-poor-is-within-our-reach/) - [Controlling greenhouse gases besides CO2 could make quick progress on global warming](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/controlling-greenhouse-gases-besides-co2-could-make-quick-progress-on-global-warming/) - [The Best Shot for Slowing Climate Impacts in Alaska and the Arctic](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/the-best-shot-for-slowing-climate-impacts-in-alaska-and-the-arctic/) - [Responding to Pope Francis’ call for environmental change](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/responding-to-pope-francis-call-for-environmental-change/) - [Soot and short-lived pollutants provide political opportunity](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/soot-and-short-lived-pollutants-provide-political-opportunity/) - [The Path to a Safe Climate Goes Through India](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/the-path-to-a-safe-climate-goes-through-india/) - [3 Climate Lessons from Lima](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/3-climate-lessons-from-lima/) - [Obama-Xi Climate Agreement Opens Door to Success in Paris in 2015](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/obama-xi-climate-agreement-opens-door-to-success-in-paris-in-2015/) - [Cette semaine, les Etats peuvent faire un grand pas dans la lutte contre le changement climatique](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/cette-semaine-les-etats-peuvent-faire-un-grand-pas-dans-la-lutte-contre-le-changement-climatique/) - [A Development-Savvy Climate Strategy for India](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/a-development-savvy-climate-strategy-for-india/) - [As Climate Impacts Accelerate, Speed of Mitigation Becomes Key](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/as-climate-impacts-accelerate-speed-of-mitigation-becomes-key/) - [Bringing Climate Solutions Down to Earth](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/bringing-climate-solutions-down-to-earth/) - [Effective Climate Agreements: Past, Present and Future](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/effective-climate-agreements-past-present-and-future/) - [Fast and refreshing](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/fast-and-refreshing/) - [Unpacking the problem](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/unpacking-the-problem/) - [Waste not, warm less](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/waste-not-warm-less/) - [Climate Policy’s Twin Challenges](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/climate-policys-twin-challenges/) - [A climate victory waiting for presidents Obama and Xi](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/a-climate-victory-waiting-for-presidents-obama-and-xi/) - [India Can Join the U.S. and China to Cut Super Greenhouse Gases](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/india-can-join-the-u-s-and-china-to-cut-super-greenhouse-gases/) - [Going Beyond Carbon Dioxide](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/going-beyond-carbon-dioxide/) - [The Montreal Protocol: 25 years and still going strong](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/the-montreal-protocol-25-years-and-still-going-strong/) - [A Climate Success Story to Build On](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/a-climate-success-story-to-build-on/) - [Rio meeting can still produce a key climate outcome](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/rio-meeting-can-still-produce-a-key-climate-outcome/) - [Earth Day: Saving our planet, saving ourselves](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/earth-day-saving-our-planet-saving-ourselves/) - [How to cut climate change in half](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds_blog/how-to-cut-climate-change-in-half/) ## Team Bios - [Richard Ferris](https://www.igsd.org/team_bios/richard-ferris/) - Richard ‘Tad’ Ferris is Senior Counsel at IGSD, where he leads governance work on non-CO2 super climate pollutants, including methane (CH4), hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), and nitrous oxide (N2O). Tad is also IGSD’s acting General Counsel. Tad has over three decades of experience as an international environmental and climate lawyer focusing on treaties, compliance, developing-country legal systems, - [Madelyn Zuckerman](https://www.igsd.org/team_bios/madelyn-zuckerman/) - Madelyn Zuckerman is a Research Associate at IGSD. She assists the broader IGSD team, providing research and editing support on short-lived climate pollutants. Previously, she served as the Executive Assistant to the President at IGSD. Madelyn holds a BA in International Studies from the School of International Service at American University in Washington, DC, where she focused on international relations, environmental sustainability, environmental - [Tanisha Devjani](https://www.igsd.org/team_bios/tanisha-devjani/) - Tanisha Devjani is the Executive Assistant to the President at IGSD. Beyond strategic coordination and operations, she assists the broader IGSD team with research and editing. Prior to IGSD, Tanisha worked as Impact & Outreach Coordinator at the award-winning documentary Turtle Walker, working on the documentary's marine conservation campaign and climate communication initiatives. She has also served as - [Dr. Sebastian Luengo](https://www.igsd.org/team_bios/dr-sebastian-luengo/) - Sebastian Luengo is a Staff Attorney at IGSD, where he is focusing primarily on just transition and strategic climate litigation efforts worldwide, including the advisory opinion before the Inter-American Court of Human Rights on the Climate Emergency and Human Rights Previously, Sebastian worked as a Law Fellow at IGSD. Before joining IGSD, Sebastian practiced environmental - [Katie Super](https://www.igsd.org/team_bios/katie-super/) - Katie Super is a Staff Attorney at IGSD. Her work focuses on the development of climate litigation strategies, in particular targeting reductions of short-lived climate pollutants such as methane. She has also supported IGSD’s submissions to the Inter-American Court of Human Rights with respect to their forthcoming Advisory Opinion on climate change. Previously, Katie worked - [Melinda Soffer](https://www.igsd.org/team_bios/melinda-soffer/) - Melinda Soffer is the Director of Finance and Administration at IGSD. She manages grant budgets and office finances, as well as supervises IGSD’s administrative staff. Melinda has over thirty years of accounting experience at non-profit organizations, giving her an extensive background in grant management as well as drafting and editing grant proposals and reports for a variety of - [Trina Chiemi](https://www.igsd.org/team_bios/trina-chiemi/) - Trina Chiemi is a Law Fellow at IGSD and a founding co-chair of the Fast Action on Climate to Ensure Intergenerational Justice (FACE Intergenerational Justice) initiative. Their work focuses on focuses on using law and policy to ensure intergenerational climate justice, particularly through near-term climate mitigation. Previously, Trina served as a Research Associate and the - [Dr. Dan Kim ](https://www.igsd.org/team_bios/dr-dan-kim/) - Dr. Dan Kim is a Program Officer at IGSD. His work focuses on legal and policy research related to international treaty negotiations, policy development, and compliance issues under the Montreal Protocol and other global environmental agreements, including IGSD’s campaign to prevent environmentally harmful product dumping. Before joining IGSD, Dan served as a Senior Policy Analyst - [Giselle Gonzalez](https://www.igsd.org/team_bios/giselle-gonzalez/) - Giselle Gonzalez is the Grants Coordinator at IGSD. She is responsible for maintaining grant documentation, tracking project progress, and facilitating communication with IGSD’s funders. Previously, Giselle was IGSD's Media Coordinator supporting outreach to both traditional media outlets and social media. Giselle also worked as a Research Associate at IGSD, focusing on developing fast-mitigation projects for the Green Climate - [Rebecca Mitchell](https://www.igsd.org/team_bios/rebecca-mitchell/) - Rebecca Mitchell is a Law Fellow at IGSD. Her work focuses on developing litigation strategies to advance fast-acting climate mitigation. Prior to joining IGSD, Rebecca served as an Assistant District Attorney, where she prosecuted a wide range of criminal cases through all stages of litigation. She has also contributed to legal and policy research in areas such - [Fielding Burnette](https://www.igsd.org/team_bios/fielding-burnette/) - Fielding Burnette is a Law Fellow at IGSD focusing on fast-acting climate mitigation including through the development of mandatory methane regulatory frameworks. Prior to his current role, Fielding gained international experience as a legal intern with several French NGOs addressing environmental impacts of mineral extraction. In the United States, he interned with IGSD as well as the Center for International Environmental Law and - [Sean Dennis](https://www.igsd.org/team_bios/sean-dennis/) - Sean Dennis is the Technical Editor at IGSD, working on publications and projects that support IGSD’s fast mitigation strategies. Primarily, Sean focuses on our efforts to strengthen climate protection under the Montreal Protocol. Prior to IGSD, Sean was a technical editor for Schatz Strategy Group, a senior technical writer for DataPath and Rockwell Collins (now - [Maxime Beaugrand](https://www.igsd.org/team_bios/maxime-beaugrand/) - Maxime Beaugrand is the Director of the Paris Office at IGSD. Maxime joined IGSD in 2007 and has been focusing on international and French/EU climate strategy, policy, and advocacy for near-term climate mitigation. She has also led the IGSD international litigation portfolio since 2020. Prior to IGSD, Maxime worked for several years in a commercial law firm in Paris - [Alyssa Hull](https://www.igsd.org/team_bios/alyssa-hull/) - Alyssa Hull is a Research Associate at IGSD, where she focuses on tracking and writing about the latest science to support fast mitigation action on climate. Prior to IGSD, Alyssa worked as a chemical spectroscopist and, more recently, as a science educator at the college and secondary levels. During her time as an educator, she - [Romina Picolotti](https://www.igsd.org/team_bios/romina-picolotti/) - Romina Picolotti is the Director of Climate Policy at IGSD where she assists IGSD’s efforts to reduce short-lived climate pollutants, including through strengthening the Montreal Protocol to protect the climate by phasing out production and consumption of HFCs through the Kigali amendment, while improving the energy efficiency of air conditioning and other appliances. Romina is - [Dr. Julie Miller](https://www.igsd.org/team_bios/dr-julie-miller/) - Dr. Julie Miller is a Research Associate at IGSD. She works closely with our Chief Scientist, Dr. Gabrielle Dreyfus, to support the publication of original scientific studies through data analysis, modeling, and research design. She also reviews scientific literature to maintain IGSD documents with the latest climate science. Prior to IGSD, Julie was a postdoctoral - [Dr. Gabrielle Dreyfus](https://www.igsd.org/team_bios/dr-gabrielle-dreyfus/) - Dr. Gabrielle Dreyfus is the Chief Scientist at IGSD, where she collaborates with leading experts and international partners to conduct research, and craft and advance policies to slow global warming through strategies to control short-lived climate pollutants, improve energy efficiency, and protect carbon sinks. She is also an adjunct lecturer at Georgetown University, where she - [Xiaopu Sun](https://www.igsd.org/team_bios/xiaopu-sun/) - Xiaopu Sun is Senior China Counsel at IGSD. She has over a decade of experience conducting research and collaborative projects to advance the reduction of short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs) including hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) and methane through international treaty platforms, as well as domestic regulations and policies, with a regional focus on China. Prior to IGSD, Xiaopu - [Dr. Stephen O. Andersen](https://www.igsd.org/team_bios/dr-stephen-andersen/) - Dr. Stephen O. Andersen is the Director of Research at IGSD where he focuses on climate and ozone layer protection. Prior to IGSD, Dr. Andersen served as the first economist in environmental litigation support at the Sierra Club, San Francisco, and the first economist in crafting laws and policies to protect the environment at the - [Zerin Osho](https://www.igsd.org/team_bios/zerin-osho/) - Zerin Osho is the Director of the India Program at IGSD where she is leading the development and implementation of IGSD’s subnational work on fast mitigation of short-lived climate pollutants. Prior to IGSD, Zerin was most recently seconded to the International Solar Alliance (ISA), where she served as a Coordinator the UN General Assembly and led - [Sunandini Seth](https://www.igsd.org/team_bios/sunandini-seth/) - Sunandini Seth is the Program Coordinator for the India Program at IGSD where she is responsible for program management and coordination between IGSD and key stakeholders. IGSD’s subnational work focuses on fast mitigation strategies to protect the climate, including reducing short-lived climate pollutants, and driving investments for the sustainable development of climate-vulnerable states in India. - [Mohamed Rida Derder](https://www.igsd.org/team_bios/mohamed-rida-derder/) - Mohamed Rida Derder is the Senior Africa Counsel at IGSD. He is an international lawyer and advisor on environmental law and policy to governments and organizations. He specializes in ozone protection and fast mitigation solutions to the climate crisis. Prior to IGSD, Mohamed Rida worked for the International Network for Environmental Compliance & Enforcement (INECE), - [Matthew Stilwell](https://www.igsd.org/team_bios/matthew-stilwell/) - Matthew Stilwell a Senior Attorney at IGSD where he advises governments, and international and non-governmental organizations in multilateral negotiations on climate change, energy, trade, and sustainable development. Matthew also serves as co-convenor of the International Justice Initiative at the University of Tasmania and has taught at universities in Europe, North America, and Australia. Latest Resources ## Categories - [News & Updates](https://www.igsd.org/category/news-updates/) - [Press Releases](https://www.igsd.org/category/press-releases/) - [News](https://www.igsd.org/category/news/) - [Briefings](https://www.igsd.org/category/briefings/) ## Tags - [2014](https://www.igsd.org/tag/2014/) - [2013](https://www.igsd.org/tag/2013/) - [2012](https://www.igsd.org/tag/2012/) - [2007](https://www.igsd.org/tag/2007/) - [2011](https://www.igsd.org/tag/2011/) - [2015](https://www.igsd.org/tag/2015/) - [2016](https://www.igsd.org/tag/2016/) - [2023](https://www.igsd.org/tag/2023/) - [2022](https://www.igsd.org/tag/2022/) - [2021](https://www.igsd.org/tag/2021/) - [2020](https://www.igsd.org/tag/2020/) - [2019](https://www.igsd.org/tag/2019/) - [2018](https://www.igsd.org/tag/2018/) - [2017](https://www.igsd.org/tag/2017/) - [2024](https://www.igsd.org/tag/2024/) - [2025](https://www.igsd.org/tag/2025/) - [2026](https://www.igsd.org/tag/2026/) ## Topic - [Cooling](https://www.igsd.org/publications_topic/cooling/) - [Montreal Protocol](https://www.igsd.org/publications_topic/montreal-protocol/) - [Environmental dumping](https://www.igsd.org/publications_topic/environmental-dumping/) - [Indonesia](https://www.igsd.org/publications_topic/indonesia/) - [Malaysia](https://www.igsd.org/publications_topic/malaysia/) - [Philippines](https://www.igsd.org/publications_topic/philippines/) - [Singapore](https://www.igsd.org/publications_topic/singapore/) - [Thailand](https://www.igsd.org/publications_topic/thailand/) - [Vietnam](https://www.igsd.org/publications_topic/vietnam/) - [China](https://www.igsd.org/publications_topic/china/) - [Carbon markets](https://www.igsd.org/publications_topic/carbon-markets/) - [Trifluoroiodomethane](https://www.igsd.org/publications_topic/trifluoroiodomethane/) - [Life cycle climate performance](https://www.igsd.org/publications_topic/life-cycle-climate-performance/) - [T20](https://www.igsd.org/publications_topic/t20/) - [G20](https://www.igsd.org/publications_topic/g20/) - [Cold chain](https://www.igsd.org/publications_topic/cold-chain/) - [Nitrous oxide](https://www.igsd.org/publications_topic/nitrous-oxide/) - [N2O](https://www.igsd.org/publications_topic/n2o/) - [Kigali Amendment](https://www.igsd.org/publications_topic/kigali-amendment/) - [Cities](https://www.igsd.org/publications_topic/cities/) - [Agriculture](https://www.igsd.org/publications_topic/agriculture/) - [Ozone layer](https://www.igsd.org/publications_topic/ozone-layer/) - [Military](https://www.igsd.org/publications_topic/military/) - [Enhanced rock weathering](https://www.igsd.org/publications_topic/enhanced-rock-weathering/) - [Lifecycle refrigerant management](https://www.igsd.org/publications_topic/lifecycle-refrigerant-management/) - [Ghana](https://www.igsd.org/publications_topic/ghana/) - [India](https://www.igsd.org/publications_topic/india/) - [Short-lived climate pollutants](https://www.igsd.org/publications_topic/short-lived-climate-pollutants/) - [Nature-based solutions](https://www.igsd.org/publications_topic/nature-based-solutions/) - [Africa](https://www.igsd.org/publications_topic/africa/) - [Biomass](https://www.igsd.org/publications_topic/biomass/) - [COP](https://www.igsd.org/publications_topic/cop/) - [HFO-1234yf](https://www.igsd.org/publications_topic/hfo-1234yf/) - [Patents](https://www.igsd.org/publications_topic/patents/) - [Morocco](https://www.igsd.org/publications_topic/morocco/) - [Procurement](https://www.igsd.org/publications_topic/procurement/) - [Energy efficiency](https://www.igsd.org/publications_topic/energy-efficiency/) - [MAC](https://www.igsd.org/publications_topic/mac/) - [Air pollution](https://www.igsd.org/publications_topic/air-pollution/) - [Aluminum smelting](https://www.igsd.org/publications_topic/aluminum-smelting/) - [Methane](https://www.igsd.org/publications_topic/methane/) - [Arctic](https://www.igsd.org/publications_topic/arctic/) - [Climate litigation](https://www.igsd.org/publications_topic/climate-litigation/) - [RAC](https://www.igsd.org/publications_topic/rac/) - [Brazil](https://www.igsd.org/publications_topic/brazil/) - [Latin America](https://www.igsd.org/publications_topic/latin-america/) ## Author - [IGSD](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/igsd/) - [Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/lawrence-berkeley-national-laboratory/) - [CLASP](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/clasp/) - [CCICED](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/cciced/) - [K. Taddonio](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/k-taddonio/) - [G. Dreyfus](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/g-dreyfus/) - [S. O. Andersen](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/s-o-andersen/) - [A. R. Ravishankara](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/a-r-ravishankara/) - [V. Dhawan](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/v-dhawan/) - [Z. Osho](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/z-osho/) - [A. M. Kleymeyer](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/a-m-kleymeyer/) - [A. Murphy](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/a-murphy/) - [D. R. Kanter](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/d-r-kanter/) - [R. V. Fajardo](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/r-v-fajardo/) - [N. Shah](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/n-shah/) - [S. Seth](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/s-seth/) - [R. Srivastava](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/r-srivastava/) - [S. Harper](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/s-harper/) - [Precision Development (PxD)](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/precision-development-pxd/) - [E. T. Morehouse](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/e-t-morehouse/) - [A. Bagai](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/a-bagai/) - [D. King](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/d-king/) - [IEA](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/iea/) - [NRDC](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/nrdc/) - [M. Gonzalez](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/m-gonzalez/) - [N. Sherman](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/n-sherman/) - [K. A. Agyarko](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/k-a-agyarko/) - [H. Zan](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/h-zan/) - [R. Ferris](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/r-ferris/) - [M. R. Derder](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/m-r-derder/) - [L. O. Bosire](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/l-o-bosire/) - [A. Hillbrand](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/a-hillbrand/) - [P. Madan](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/p-madan/) - [M. Singh](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/m-singh/) - [M. McNamara](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/m-mcnamara/) - [A. Mathur](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/a-mathur/) - [R. Shende](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/r-shende/) - [A. Jaiswal](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/a-jaiswal/) - [X. Sun](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/x-sun/) - [P. Wang](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/p-wang/) - [H. Lin](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/h-lin/) - [B. Gu](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/b-gu/) - [Y. Wang](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/y-wang/) - [Y. Xu](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/y-xu/) - [D. Shindell](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/d-shindell/) - [V. Ramanathan](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/v-ramanathan/) - [A. Agyarko](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/a-agyarko/) - [E. Osae-Quansah](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/e-osae-quansah/) - [L. Bloomer](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/l-bloomer/) - [C. Schiff](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/c-schiff/) - [D. B. Hunter](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/d-b-hunter/) - [J. E. Salzman](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/j-e-salzman/) - [S. Gao](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/s-gao/) - [S. Carvalho](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/s-carvalho/) - [N. J. Sherman](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/n-j-sherman/) - [Y. Wei](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/y-wei/) - [I. Stoddard](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/i-stoddard/) - [K. Anderson](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/k-anderson/) - [S. Capstick](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/s-capstick/) - [M. Stilwell](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/m-stilwell/) - [H. Yan](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/h-yan/) - [S. Wang](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/s-wang/) - [K. Willi](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/k-willi/) - [G. J. M. Velders](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/g-j-m-velders/) - [J. S. Daniel](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/j-s-daniel/) - [M. McFarland](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/m-mcfarland/) - [H. Wan](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/h-wan/) - [T. Cao](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/t-cao/) - [Y. Hwang](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/y-hwang/) - [R. Radermacher](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/r-radermacher/) - [S. Chin](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/s-chin/) - [AMEE](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/amee/) - [CEEE](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/ceee/) - [Economic and Human Dimensions Research Associates (EHDRA](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/economic-and-human-dimensions-research-associates-ehdra/) - [Sustainable Purchasing Leadership Council (SPLC)](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/sustainable-purchasing-leadership-council-splc/) - [S. Sebti](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/s-sebti/) - [M. Tahri-Joutei](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/m-tahri-joutei/) - [J. Benhamdane](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/j-benhamdane/) - [J. A. Laitner](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/j-a-laitner/) - [A. Phadke](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/a-phadke/) - [J. Lin](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/j-lin/) - [W. Young Park](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/w-young-park/) - [Y. Zhang](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/y-zhang/) - [C. Ding](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/c-ding/) - [N. Karali](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/n-karali/) - [M. Molina](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/m-molina/) - [N. Borgford-Parnell](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/n-borgford-parnell/) - [J. Christensen](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/j-christensen/) - [D. W. Fahey](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/d-w-fahey/) - [B. Motherway](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/b-motherway/) - [T. Peters](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/t-peters/) - [R. Picolotti](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/r-picolotti/) - [A. Chakour](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/a-chakour/) - [M. Ghazali](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/m-ghazali/) - [S. Mouline](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/s-mouline/) - [J. Cole](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/j-cole/) - [ICCT](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/icct/) - [J. Wolf](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/j-wolf/) - [J. Ling](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/j-ling/) - [TERI](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/teri/) - [K. J. Markowitz](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/k-j-markowitz/) - [CEEW](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/ceew/) - [C2ES](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/c2es/) - [P. Canan](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/p-canan/) - [N. Reichman](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/n-reichman/) - [B. Gareau](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/b-gareau/) - [M. Beaugrand](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/m-beaugrand/) - [D. Brack](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/d-brack/) - [J. Depledge](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/j-depledge/) - [UNEP](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/unep/) - [Terre Policy Center](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/terre-policy-center/) - [M. L. Halberstadt](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/m-l-halberstadt/) - [M. K. Miller](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/m-k-miller/) - [J. Alcamo](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/j-alcamo/) - [S. A. Montzka](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/s-a-montzka/) - [S. Reimann](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/s-reimann/) - [D. Wong](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/d-wong/) - [M. Gilbert](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/m-gilbert/) - [Y. Gao](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/y-gao/) - [M. Dorreen](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/m-dorreen/) - [M.Taylor](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/m-taylor/) - [A.Tabereaux](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/a-tabereaux/) - [M. Soffer](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/m-soffer/) - [N. Ramanathan](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/n-ramanathan/) - [K. Madhava Sarma](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/k-madhava-sarma/) - [D. Kaniaru](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/d-kaniaru/) - [CCAC](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/ccac/) - [GRID-Arenda](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/grid-arenda/) - [WMO](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/wmo/) - [International Energy Agency](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/international-energy-agency/) - [Sustainable Energy for All](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/sustainable-energy-for-all/) - [University of Birmingham](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/university-of-birmingham/) - [University of California](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/university-of-california/) - [Oak Ridge National Laboratory](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/oak-ridge-national-laboratory/) - [University of Oxford](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/university-of-oxford/) - [J. Wang](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/j-wang/) - [J. S. Miller](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/j-s-miller/) - [S. Willis](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/s-willis/) - [S. Luengo](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/s-luengo/) - [Spark Climate Solutions](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/spark-climate-solutions/) - [Centro Studi Galileo](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/centro-studi-galileo/) - [Punjab State Council for Science & Technology](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/punjab-state-council-for-science-technology/) - [Department of Science, Technology & Environment, Govt. of Punjab](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/department-of-science-technology-environment-govt-of-punjab/) - [J. A. Baker](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/j-a-baker/) - [T. D. Craig](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/t-d-craig/) - [S. H. Kapoor](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/s-h-kapoor/) - [S. G. Schaeber](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/s-g-schaeber/) - [J. Rockström](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/j-rockstrom/) - [J. Oelwang](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/j-oelwang/) - [J. Hu](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/j-hu/) - [P. Jiang](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/p-jiang/) - [Z. Chen](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/z-chen/) - [D. Zaelke](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/d-zaelke/) - [M. Ribeiro](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/m-ribeiro/) - [Government of Haryana](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/government-of-haryana/) - [Government of Himachal Pradesh](https://www.igsd.org/publications_author/government-of-himachal-pradesh/) ## Initiative - [Super pollutants](https://www.igsd.org/publications_initiative/super-pollutants/) - [Other efforts](https://www.igsd.org/publications_initiative/other-efforts/) - [Climate Litigation](https://www.igsd.org/publications_initiative/climate-litigation/) ## Publisher - [Environmental Science & Technology](https://www.igsd.org/publications_publisher/environmental-science-technology/) - [Eos](https://www.igsd.org/publications_publisher/eos/) - [Environmental Research Letters](https://www.igsd.org/publications_publisher/environmental-research-letters/) - [Advances in Climate Change Research](https://www.igsd.org/publications_publisher/advances-in-climate-change-research/) - [Proceedings of the National Academy of Science (PNAS)](https://www.igsd.org/publications_publisher/proceedings-of-the-national-academy-of-science-pnas/) - [Duke Environmental Law & Policy Forum](https://www.igsd.org/publications_publisher/duke-environmental-law-policy-forum/) - [Annual Review of Environment and Resources](https://www.igsd.org/publications_publisher/annual-review-of-environment-and-resources/) - [ACS Earth and Space Chemistry](https://www.igsd.org/publications_publisher/acs-earth-and-space-chemistry/) - [International Journal of Refrigeration](https://www.igsd.org/publications_publisher/international-journal-of-refrigeration/) - [Energy Research & Social Science](https://www.igsd.org/publications_publisher/energy-research-social-science/) - [Springer](https://www.igsd.org/publications_publisher/springer/) - [Comptes Rendus Geoscience](https://www.igsd.org/publications_publisher/comptes-rendus-geoscience/) - [Natural Resources & Environment](https://www.igsd.org/publications_publisher/natural-resources-environment/) - [Journal of Environmental Studies and Sciences volume](https://www.igsd.org/publications_publisher/journal-of-environmental-studies-and-sciences-volume/) - [UNEP](https://www.igsd.org/publications_publisher/unep/) - [Journal of the Air & Waste Management Association](https://www.igsd.org/publications_publisher/journal-of-the-air-waste-management-association/) - [Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics](https://www.igsd.org/publications_publisher/atmospheric-chemistry-and-physics/) - [The Pontifical Academy of Sciences](https://www.igsd.org/publications_publisher/the-pontifical-academy-of-sciences/) - [Science Magazine](https://www.igsd.org/publications_publisher/science-magazine/) - [Review of European, Comparative & International Environmental Law](https://www.igsd.org/publications_publisher/review-of-european-comparative-international-environmental-law/) - [Light Metals](https://www.igsd.org/publications_publisher/light-metals/) - [The Minerals, Metals & Materials Society](https://www.igsd.org/publications_publisher/the-minerals-metals-materials-society/) - [Frontiers in Science](https://www.igsd.org/publications_publisher/frontiers-in-science/) - [IISD](https://www.igsd.org/publications_publisher/iisd/) - [Climate & Clean Air Coalition](https://www.igsd.org/publications_publisher/climate-clean-air-coalition/) - [CEJIL](https://www.igsd.org/publications_publisher/cejil/) ## Date - [2023](https://www.igsd.org/publications_date/2023/) - [2022](https://www.igsd.org/publications_date/2022/) - [2021](https://www.igsd.org/publications_date/2021/) - [2020](https://www.igsd.org/publications_date/2020/) - [2019](https://www.igsd.org/publications_date/2019/) - [2018](https://www.igsd.org/publications_date/2018/) - [2017](https://www.igsd.org/publications_date/2017/) - [2016](https://www.igsd.org/publications_date/2016/) - [2015](https://www.igsd.org/publications_date/2015/) - [2014](https://www.igsd.org/publications_date/2014/) - [2013](https://www.igsd.org/publications_date/2013/) - [2012](https://www.igsd.org/publications_date/2012/) - [2011](https://www.igsd.org/publications_date/2011/) - [2009](https://www.igsd.org/publications_date/2009/) - [2024](https://www.igsd.org/publications_date/2024/) - [2025](https://www.igsd.org/publications_date/2025/) - [2026](https://www.igsd.org/publications_date/2026/) ## Outlet - [The Indian Express](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-outlet/the-indian-express/) - [The Messenger](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-outlet/the-messenger/) - [Le Figaro](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-outlet/le-figaro/) - [The Diplomat](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-outlet/the-diplomat/) - [The Hill](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-outlet/the-hill/) - [One Earth](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-outlet/one-earth/) - [Climate Home News](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-outlet/climate-home-news/) - [Les Echos](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-outlet/les-echos/) - [The Environmental Forum](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-outlet/the-environmental-forum/) - [The New York Times](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-outlet/the-new-york-times/) - [La Voz](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-outlet/la-voz/) - [China Energy Online](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-outlet/china-energy-online/) - [The Washington Post](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-outlet/the-washington-post/) - [The San Diego Union-Tribune](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-outlet/the-san-diego-union-tribune/) - [Journal de l’enviornnment](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-outlet/journal-de-lenviornnment/) - [Project Syndicate](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-outlet/project-syndicate/) - [The Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-outlet/the-bulletin-of-the-atomic-scientists/) - [U.S. News](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-outlet/u-s-news/) - [The Huffington Post](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-outlet/the-huffington-post/) - [Nature](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-outlet/nature/) - [UNEP](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-outlet/unep/) - [Fohla De Sao Paulo](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-outlet/fohla-de-sao-paulo/) - [USA Today](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-outlet/usa-today/) - [TerraEco](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-outlet/terraeco/) - [Council on Foreign Relations](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-outlet/council-on-foreign-relations/) - [Alaska Dispatch News](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-outlet/alaska-dispatch-news/) - [Nature Climate Change](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-outlet/nature-climate-change/) - [Reporterre](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-outlet/reporterre/) - [Encompass](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-outlet/encompass/) - [The Los Angeles Times](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-outlet/the-los-angeles-times/) - [Roll Call](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-outlet/roll-call/) ## Topic - [Arctic](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-topic/arctic/) - [Feedbacks](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-topic/feedbacks/) - [Tipping points](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-topic/tipping-points/) - [India](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-topic/india/) - [Montreal Protocol](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-topic/montreal-protocol/) - [Methane](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-topic/methane/) - [Litigation](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-topic/litigation/) - [France](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-topic/france/) - [French](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-topic/french/) - [Short-lived climate pollutants](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-topic/short-lived-climate-pollutants/) - [Cooling](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-topic/cooling/) - [Heat](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-topic/heat/) - [Spanish](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-topic/spanish/) - [Argentina](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-topic/argentina/) - [China](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-topic/china/) - [Climate finance](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-topic/climate-finance/) - [California](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-topic/california/) - [Canada](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-topic/canada/) - [Portuguese](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-topic/portuguese/) - [Brazil](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-topic/brazil/) - [Brazi](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-topic/brazi/) ## Year - [2023](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-year/2023/) - [2022](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-year/2022/) - [2021](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-year/2021/) - [2020](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-year/2020/) - [2019](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-year/2019/) - [2018](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-year/2018/) - [2017](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-year/2017/) - [2016](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-year/2016/) - [2015](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-year/2015/) - [2014](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-year/2014/) - [2013](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-year/2013/) - [2012](https://www.igsd.org/op-eds-year/2012/)