Phasing Out Coal, Oil and Gas Extraction in US Would Drastically Cut Emissions

Climate change has sparked global debates over the future of Planet Earth, with the recent Global Catastrophic Risks report citing the process as one of the biggest threats humanity is likely to face over the next few years. Emissions are a driving factor, with the USA labelled as one of the biggest offenders.

USA cited as top CO2 offender

A new study conducted by the Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI) research organisation has now put forward a solution, claiming that phasing out coal, oil and gas extraction on US federal land would significantly cut emissions. The report maintains that if the USA made an active effort to reduce its natural resource activity, it could slash greenhouse gas emissions by 100 million tonnes a year by 2030. This would involve rejecting new mining lease applications, as well as allowing existing leases to expire. According to SEI researchers the slump would slow the effects of climate change, and reduce the nation’s carbon dioxide emission count.

“Federal leasing practices could play an important role in US efforts to achieve its climate protection goals,” the study states. “Our findings suggest that policymakers should give greater attention to measures that slow the expansion of fossil fuel supplies.”

Will the USA step up?

Signs of movement are already underway, with the Obama administration recently announcing a three-year freeze on new federal land coal leases. Oil and gas drilling projects within the Atlantic seaboard were also dropped earlier this year, following fierce backlash from environmental groups.

While 100m tonnes is a weighty amount, the SEI isn’t under any illusions that its proposition is a categorical solution. The report highlights a host of other eco-friendly policies, and stresses that combating climate change is a collaborative effort.

“If we are serious about addressing climate change, there no silver bullet. We need policies working hand in hand, not policies that work against each other. We need to show policies on the supply and the demand side,” comments Michael Lazarus, co-author of the report.

While oil and gas extraction isn’t easy on the environment, it does play a keynote role in supporting the US economy. ‘The Indispensable Analytical Tool in Petrochemical Laboratories for Quantitative Trace Element Analysis’ focusses on the petrochemicals industry, with emphasis on how accurate and precise trace element determination in is vital in all relevant application areas. Thanks to universal PETRO-QUANT BASIC calibration, manufacturers can ensure high quality products, optimal engine performance and a clean production environment.