New York Sees Another Record Hot January as Global Warming Intensifies
NEW YORK – There is undeniable evidence of global warming. Each year brings higher temperatures than the last, with January 2025 setting a new record for warmth. Natural disasters—floods, fires, droughts, and hurricanes—are becoming more extreme and frequent. The world has surpassed the target of limiting temperature rise to 1.5º Celsius above pre-industrial levels. At this rate, climate change could dominate the second half of the 21st century.
Challenges in Climate Change Mitigation Efforts
National and international efforts to combat climate change have largely failed. The Global South often views climate change as a problem primarily for the developed world to solve, given their earlier industrialization and responsibility for historical emissions. Many countries, including China, prioritize economic growth over reducing greenhouse-gas emissions, and the temptation to free-ride on others’ efforts remains strong, partly due to public resistance to taxes that promote sustainable practices.
Addressing Climate Crisis Through Political Realities
The discourse surrounding climate change is not only economic but also deeply cultural and political. In many countries, including the United States, skepticism towards climate warnings from experts runs high. However, there is still hope. Alternative approaches to climate change management that align with political priorities could provide effective solutions.
For those who accept the gravity of the climate crisis, repeating familiar arguments and attending global conferences may not be productive. Instead, these individuals should adopt strategies that reflect the current political landscape while still contributing meaningfully to climate action.
Realistic Goals for Climate Change Management
Setting realistic goals is crucial for successful climate change management. Stopping or solving climate change completely is likely unattainable, but mitigating its effects is within reach. Global emissions continue to rise, fossil fuels account for 80% of energy use, and discussions of transitioning away from these sources are largely theoretical.
As the world population grows, especially in Africa, and as electrification expands and AI requires more energy, energy use will only increase. Therefore, a strategy of energy coexistence, where fossil fuels and cleaner alternatives coexist, is necessary.
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Embracing Energy Coexistence
Fossil fuels will remain a significant part of the global energy mix for decades. Developed countries are moving away from coal, although not entirely, while its use in developing nations continues to grow. Accelerating the shift towards natural gas, which is cleaner than coal, should be a priority.
Likewise, measures to reduce methane emissions should be aggressively pursued. Renewables are becoming increasingly important and should be encouraged through public-private partnerships. This can also serve as a strategic approach to challenge China’s dominance in green technological innovation, engaging the private sector to support such advancements.
The Role of Nuclear Energy
Nuclear energy must be recognized as essential for achieving reliable clean power. Streamlining permitting processes to speed up the deployment of new reactors is necessary. China has demonstrated the capability to build nuclear plants in less than five years, and there is no reason why the US cannot achieve similar progress.
Additional support for renewable energy projects, mining critical minerals for energy infrastructure, and developing necessary power infrastructure should also be reduced or eliminated. Organizations such as the Department of Energy and Gas Operations (DOGE) can play a pivotal role in these initiatives.
Investing in Climate Technology
Mitigation efforts should extend to innovative technologies such as direct air capture, advanced scrubbing systems for coal plants, and carbon capture, utilization, sequestration, and storage (CCUS). These measures can reduce emissions without halting economic growth, providing a balanced approach to environmental sustainability.
Focusing on Community Adaptation
Communities and cities must take the initiative to reduce their vulnerability to climate-related disasters. This strategy can bypass ideological debates, foster new alliances with religious leaders, educators, and business leaders, and capitalize on the existing support of younger generations.
Restructuring Global Climate Efforts
Annual global climate conferences have not been effective. Instead of large, inclusive gatherings, smaller, focused groups (often referred to as “minilateralism”) can address specific climate challenges, involving the most influential governments and companies.
This approach is akin to regional trade agreements; while global trade efforts have struggled, regional agreements have flourished. Applying this model to climate change could lead to more tangible progress.
Nature-Based Climate Stewardship
Protecting and expanding natural carbon sinks like oceans and forests is essential. Assistance should be provided to encourage reforestation and prevent deforestation, aligning with President Trump’s self-proclaimed role as an environmentalist. Such actions can contribute meaningfully to global climate management.
Exploring Solar Geoengineering
Solar geoengineering, which reflects solar radiation back into space, merits further investigation. Federal investment through US national laboratories can ensure responsible development and use of this technology. Although controversial, solar geoengineering holds the potential to significantly slow or stop climate change.
Even if solar geoengineering does not meet expectations, the technology can complement current and planned climate strategies, enhancing overall effectiveness.
Finding Feasible Solutions for Climate Change
Effective climate change management requires pragmatic strategies that acknowledge political realities. Stopping climate change might be unfeasible, but managing its effects in an economically efficient manner is possible. By focusing on these realistic solutions, we can take significant steps toward a sustainable future.
We invite your comments and ideas on how to address climate change effectively. Your input can contribute to important discussions on sustainable practices and policies.
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