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International Paper's Carbon Targets SBTi Approved (Ind. Report)
International Paper, SBTi
Memphis, Tenn.-based International Paper is reporting its greenhouse gas reduction targets have been approved by Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) as consistent with levels required to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement. The targets covering greenhouse gas emissions from International Paper's operations (scopes 1 and 2) are consistent with reductions required to keep warming to well-below 2 degrees C. Additionally, International Paper's target for the emissions from its value chain (scope 3) meet the SBTi's criteria for ambitious value chain goals, meaning they are in line with current best practice.
The company has committed to achieving the following goals by 2030:
Healthy & Abundant Forests -- Lead forest stewardship efforts globally;
Sustainable Operations -- Improve our climate impact and advance water stewardship;
Renewable Solutions -- Accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy through innovative fiber-based products;
Each goal includes one to three specific, measurable targets -- enabling the company to commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 35 pct from 2019 levels, to reduce water usage by 25 pct and to create innovative products that are 100 pct reusable, recyclable or compostable.
SBTi helps companies establish science-based targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and transform business operations to fit the future low-carbon economy. Targets adopted by companies to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions are considered to be "science based" if they are in line with what the latest climate science says is necessary to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement -- to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees C above pre-industrial levels and pursue efforts to limit warming to 1.5 degrees C. SBTi is a collaboration between CDP, United Nations Global Compact, World Resources Institute , World Wide Fund for Nature , and one of the We Mean Business Coalition commitments. (Source: International Paper, PR, Dec., 2021) Contact: International Paper, www.internationalpaper.com; SBTi, www.sciencebasedtargets.org
More Low-Carbon Energy News International Paper, SBTi, Carbon Emissions, Paris Climate Agreement,
Velocys Joins SME Climate Hub, "Race to Zero" Campaign (Int'l)
Velocys
Oxford, UK-based advanced biofuels producer Velocys reports it has joined the SME Climate Hub, a global UN sponsored initiative to help small and medium-sized companies adopt sustainable measures as part of their activities to achieve the target net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 as set in the COP15 Paris Climate Agreement.
The SME Climate Hub is founded by the We Mean Business Coalition, Exponential Roadmap Initiative, the International Chamber of Commerce and the United Nations -- through the "Race to Zero" campaign -- in collaboration with the University of Oxford and Normative. The Campaign mobilizes and urges businesses, cities, regions, investors and civil society to adopt crucial measures to significantly impact global emissions by 2030, as a first step to achieve carbon neutrality in the future.
"Velocys' high performance catalyst and reactor technology can generate negative-carbon-emissions SAF with the integration of carbon capture technologies. The compact, commercially-ready, patented Fischer-Tropsch reactor for the synthesis of hydrocarbons allows the production of advanced biofuels from large, sustainable carbon sources such as household waste and forest residues," according to the company website. (Source: Velocys, Website PR, Nov., 2021) Contact: Velocys, Henrik Wareborn, CEO, +44 1865 800821, 713 275 5840 -- Houston office, www.velocys.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News Vedlocys, SME Climate Hub, SAF, Carbon Capture,
Cabot Aims for Net-Zero Carbon Emissions by 2050 (Ind. Report)
Cabot Corp
In the Bay State, Boston-based Cabot Corporation reports it is aligning its sustainability agenda with the Paris Climate Agreement to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.
Cabot intends to follow the methodology established by the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi) to achieve its 2025 Sustainability Goals and to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions intensity by 20 pct using 2005 as the baseline on its way to net-zero emissions by 2050. To date, the company has realized 77 pct of this goal.
Cabot Corporation is a global specialty chemicals and performance materials company and a leading provider of rubber and specialty carbons, activated carbon and other products. (Source: Cabot Corp., Website PR, 2 Dec., 2021) Contact: Cabot Corp., www.cabotcorp.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News Cabot Corp. news, Carbon Emissions news, Net-Zewro Emissions news, SBTi news,
Neste Confirms, Extends Climate Emissions Commitments (Int'l.)
Helsinki-headquartered Neste reports it has two existing and ambitious climate commitments: reaching carbon neutral production (Scope 1 & 2) by 2035 and helping its customers reduce their greenhouse gas emissions by at least 20 million tpy of CO2e by 2030. Neste is now aiming to reduce Scope 3 emissions by 50 pct by 2040 compared to 2020 levels.
Neste aims to meet its climate objectives by increasing the share of renewable and circular solutions as well as working with suppliers and partners to reduce emissions across the company's value chain. As a concrete example of reducing the Scope 3 emissions, in 2020 the majority of Neste's product distribution logistics in Finland used Neste MY Renewable Diesel™ and in 2021, will run almost entirely on renewable diesel.
According to the release, Neste will sign the Business Ambition for 1.5 degree C Commitment Letter and will continue to build on its climate actions to keep them inline with the Paris Climate Accord 1.5 degrees C emission scenarios and recommendations of the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). (Source: Neste Corp., PR, Website, 27 Oct. 2021) Contact: Neste Corp., Peter Vanacker, Pres., and CEO, Susanna Sieppi, VP Communications, +358 50 458 5076, media@neste.com, www.neste.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News GHGs, SBTi, Paris Climate Agreement, Neste, Renewable Diesel, Carbon Emissions,
SKF Commits to Net-Zero GHG Emissions (Int'l. Report)
Goteborg, Sweden-based industrial manufacturer SKF Group is reporting its commitment to reducing emissions from operations to net-zero by 2030 and to have a supply chain with net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, in line with the Paris Climate Agreement.
To that end, SKF commits to reduce CO2 emissions in its supply chain by 45 pct by 2035 rising to 60 pct by 2040. In addition, SKF has pledged to source at least 40 pct of steel from carbon neutral steel plants by 2040 and to reduce transport-related greenhouse gas emissions by 80 pct by 2040. SKF is also investing in more "green" energy and energy efficient manufacturing processes and requiring energy-intensive suppliers of steel and forgings to adopt the ISO 50001 standard for systematic energy management.
From 2022, SKF's manufacturing site in Gothenburg will become the company's third site to achieve net-zero status along with SKF facilities in Tudela, Spain, and Steyr, Austria. SKF joined the Science Based Target Initiative (SBTI) in July 2021 and is advocating for change through its engagement in the SteelZero, RE100 and ResponsibleSteel initiatives. (Source: SKF, PR, Website, 20 Oct., 2021) Contact: SKF, Rickard Gustafson, President and CEO, Patrik Stenberg, Head of Investor Relations + 46 31-337 2104, patrik.stenberg@skf.com, www.skf.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News Net-Zero Emissions news, Carbon Emissions news, Climate Change news,
Vattenfall Quadrupling Renewables Capacity in GHG Emissions Reduction Plan (Int'l. Report))
Vattenfall, SBTi
In Sweden, Stockholm-based wind energy giant Vattenfall reports it is increasing its emission reduction targets for 2030 and beyond, aiming to reach net zero by 2040. The new targets are set to help keep the global warming at a maximum of 1.5 degrees C -- as per the Paris Climate Agreement -- and have been approved by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). To that end, Vattenfall aims to:
phase out coal from all operations by switching the last two coal-fired heat assets, Moabit and Reuter West in Berlin, to a combination of biomass, heat pumps, power-to-heat, and natural gas;
add four times the capacity of wind and solar to the grid compared to what the company has now in operations;
help partners and society to electrify industrial processes, including in steel, cement, heavy transport, chemicals, and more, enabling emissions reductions beyond Vattenfall's own value chain, and have 25 times as many electric charging points in operation, compared to 2020;
committed to being net-zero along its full value chain in 2040.
According to Vattenfall's Annika Ramskold, Head of Sustainability, "Phasing out coal represents the next phase of our decarbonisation journey: we've gone from more than 22 million tons of CO2 in 2017 to about 12 million tons in 2020, and these new investments will give us a flexible, future-proof portfolio of assets that will reduce emissions to under 6 million tons in 2030 and will contribute to net zero operations by 2040." (Source: Vattenfall, Website PR, Oct., 2021) Contact: Vattenfall, Anna Borg, Pres., CEO, +46 (0)76-769 56 07. www.group.vattenfall.com; SBTi, www.sciencebasedtargets.org
More Low-Carbon Energy News SBTi, Vattenfall, Wind, Carbon Emissions,
John Kerry Comments on Climate Change Progress -- Notable Quote
"This is the decisive decade.
"The bottom line is, folks, as we stand here today, we believe we can make enormous progress in Glasgow, moving rapidly towards the new goals that the science is telling us we must achieve. All countries have to sprint and join together to understand that we are all in this together." -- U.S. special climate envoy John Kerry
Kerry noted "enormous progress" could be made at an upcoming U.N. climate summit in Scotland to reduce carbon emission levels if more governments come up with concrete commitments. Kerry noted that countries representing 55 pct of the world's GDP submitted plans that hit the 1.5 degrees C target.
Kerry also noted that the sum of all 191 Paris Climate agreement pledges as they are written would increase emissions by 16 pct by 2030, and that the 89 new submissions would only cut emissions by 12 pct. (Source: Various Media, AP, 3 Oct., 2021)
More Low-Carbon Energy News John Kerry, Climate Change,
Equinor Notable Quote -- Hydrogen and CCS
Equinor Date: 2021-07-19 "Without CCS and hydrogen, at scale, there is no viable path to net-zero and realizing the Paris goals." -- Equinor, Andres Opedal, Pres. and CEO, June , 2021, www.equinor.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News Equinor news, Hydrogen news, Net-Zero Emissions news, Paris Climate Agreement news,
Jakarta Chops Norwegian Climate, Deforestation Pact (Int'l.)
Norwegian International Climate and Forest Initiative
Following up on our July 13, 2021 coverage, In Jakarta, the Indonesian Foreign Ministry reports it has terminated its 2020 deal with Norway on cooperation to reduce carbon emissions from deforestation, due to lack of payment. The two countries have been cooperating on reducing deforestation, peatland and forest degradation and related climate change initiatives since 2010.
Norway offered a $56 million contribution to Indonesia, based on its 2016-2017 results on curbing deforestation under a United Nations-backed REDD+ forest-conservation scheme. . Apparently payment wasn't prompt enough for the Indonesians following its meeting of national greenhouse gas emission cuts by the equivalent of 11.2 million tonnes of carbon-dioxide emissions in the 2016-2017 period.
As previously reported, under the Paris climate agreement Indonesia committed to reduce carbon emission by 41 pct by 2030, with international assistance, and aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2060.
The Norwegian International Climate and Forest Initiative noted it planned to continue supporting Indonesia's deforestation and other climate change mitigation efforts. (Source: Indonesian Foreign Ministry, 11 Sept., 2021) Contact: Indonesian Foreign Ministry, www.kemlu.go.id/portal/en; Norwegian International Climate and Forest Initiative, www.ndcpartnership.org/funding-and-initiatives-navigator/norways-international-climate-and-forest-initiative-nicfi ; Norway Minister of Climate and Environment, Sveinung Rotevatn, www.regjeringen.no/en/dep/kld/id66
More Low-Carbon Energy News Deforestation, REDD+, Climate Change, Norwegian International Climate and Forest Initiative,
Notable Quote on Carbon Emissions
Coalition for Negative Emissions
"Without action to deliver 1 Gigatonne (Gt) of negative emissions globally by 2025, keeping global warming within the Paris Agreement target of 1.5 degrees C cannot be achieved." -- Coalition for Negative Emissions (CNE), 29 June, 2021). Contact: Coalition for Negative Emissions, www.coalitionfornegativeemissions.org
More Low-Carbon Energy News Coalition for Negative Emissions, Paris Climate Agreement,
Putin Moves to Regulate Russia's Major Carbon Emitters (Int'l.)
Last week in Moscow, Russian President Vladimir Putin inked legislation requiring the country's largest emitters and businesses to report their greenhouse gas emissions. The legislation, which comes into force in January, 2023, is described as "a first step towards carbon regulation to combat climate change."
Under the Paris Climate Accord, Russia, a major oil and gas producer, committed to cut its emissions to 70 pct of 1990 levels by 2030. (Source: Reuters, 2 July, 2021)
More Low-Carbon Energy News Carbon Emissions, Russia Carbon Emissions, Paris Climate Agreement,
Manulife Touts Real Estate Portfolio GHG Reduction Plan (Ind. Report)
Manulife Investment Management
In Boston, Manulife Investment Management reports in its 2021 Real Estate Sustainability report it had set a GHG reduction target of 80 pct by 2050 across its $18.2 billion property portfolio 63 million sq-ft of office, industrial and retail space and over 6,500 multifamily units across Canada, the US and Asia.
Manulife developed a GHG model to identify multiple abatement opportunities and model reduction scenarios, and last year it conducted a "deep carbon retrofit study" of its corporate real estate to see where it could achieve immediate and longer-term reductions. Through carbon-emission reduction, Manulife Investment Management aims to be a key player in the transition to a low carbon economy.
Manulife's global climate action plan also commits to a 35 pct reduction of Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2035, in line with the Paris Climate Agreement. (Source: Manulife Investment Management, 14 June, 2021) Contact: Manulife Investment Management, www.manulifeim.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News GHG news, Greenhouse Gas Emissions news,
WMO Says Chance of Earth Exceeding COP21 Climate Goals (Int'l.)
According to the World Meteorological Organization's (WMO) recently released Global Annual to Decadal Climate Update there is roughly 40 pct chance annual average global temperatures will temporarily exceed the 1.5 degrees above pre-industrial levels Paris COP21 Agreement goal. This probability is thought to have doubled compared to last year's predictions, due in part to the use of an improved temperature dataset offering accurate baseline predictions.
The WMO also suggests a 90 pct chance that at least one year between 2021 and 2025 will eclipse the current standings for the warmest year on record, currently measured in 2016.
Download the Global Annual to Decadal Climate Update HERE. (Source: WMO, PR, June, 2021) Contact: WMO, Clare Nullis, Media,, +41 79 709 13 97, cnullis@wmo.int, www.wmo.int
More Low-Carbon Energy News World Meteorological Organization, COP21, Paris Climate Agreement, Climate Change,
UK Targets 40GW of Offshore Wind by 2030 (Int'l. Report)
As previously reported, in October 2020, the UK government announced plans to increase offshore wind capacity from 30GW to 40GW by 2030 as part of a larger plan aimed at reaching net-zero emissions by 2050, in keeping with the Paris Climate Agreement.
According to Oxford-based independent energy market analytics company Aurora Energy Research, reaching 40GW of offshore wind capacity by 2030 will require a clear government strategy, an investment of at least £50 billion ($69.34 billion) and a methodical approach for grid development and advanced infrastructure for integrating the electricity generated by offshore wind farms into the electricity grid. An investment of £160 million ($221.91 million) will also be need to upgrade the country's ports and factories to boost turbine production. (Source: Aurora Energy Research, Various Media, Power Technology, May, 2021) Contact: Aurora, Martin Anderson, Head of Renewables, +44 (0) 1865 952 700, contact@auroraer.com, www.auroraer.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News Aurora Energy Research, UK Offshore Wind, Wind, Offshore Wind,
Obama's Methane Emissions Regulations Reinstated (Reg. & Leg.)
Obama Methane
On Wed., the US Senate voted 52-42 to reinstate the Obama administration's 2019 federal limits on methane emission leaks from new and modified wells in 2016. Since 2016, Colorado and California have enacted more stringent methane emissions regulations.
The Clean Air Task Force, the Environmental Defense Fund and other environmental organizations have called on the Biden administration to pledge a 40 pct or more reduction in U.S. methane emissions by the end of the decade as part of its recommitment to the Paris Climate agreement.
On Oct. 1, 2019 we reported: The U.S. Department of the Interior (DoI) has announced its decision to ease Obama-era , 2016, regulations on methane leaks which the Trump administration describes as "burdensome on the private sector" restrictions on oil and gas industry."
Under the Waste Prevention Rule, oil and gas producing companies were required to inspect their wells twice yearly and repair reported leaks within 30 days. The rollback of the regulation means companies are no longer obliged to check their wells and equipment more often than annually and have 60 days instead of 30 to complete repairs.
Though not as long-lived as CO2, methane prevents as much as 80 pct more heat from escaping in the first 20 years of its release. Methane leaks are the largest drawback of the otherwise environmentally friendly switch from coal to natural gas as a source of energy. Natural gas releases half as much carbon dioxide when burnt.
The rationale behind Trump's rollback on methane leaks restrictions was largely economic. It is estimated that drillers would save $734 million to $1 billion over the next 10 years. (Source: Various Media, ICN, 29 Apr., 2021)
More Low-Carbon Energy News Obama , Methane Emissions,
Environmental Defense Fund Lauds Biden's 50-52 pct GHG Reduction by 2030 Target (Opinions, Editorials & Asides)
Today, the Biden administration announced an ambitious and credible emissions target under the Paris Agreement to cut U.S. greenhouse gas emissions by 50-52 pct below 2005 levels by 2030.
"By announcing a bold target of cutting emissions 50-52 pct below 2005 levels by the end of the decade, President Biden has met the moment and the urgency that the climate crisis demands. The message from the White House is clear: The U.S. is ready to go all-in to beat the climate crisis. This target aligns with what the science says is necessary to put the world on the path to a safer climate, and vaults the U.S. into the top tier of world leaders on climate ambition. And it's backed up by numerous analyses demonstrating that it can be met through multiple pathways using existing technologies.
"For four years, the world wondered what's going on with the U.S. Now they're going to have to race to keep up. With this ambitious and credible target, the U.S. has joined the EU and UK at the top of the global league table, recaptured a leadership role on climate -- and positioned itself to push for greater global ambition in the lead up to COP26 in Glasgow. Now it's time for other major emitters to follow suit and commit to deeper reductions in their own emissions over this next decisive decade.
"Going bold on climate will help America create the jobs of the future. By taking swift action to invest in clean industries and technologies, the United States can supercharge its competitiveness in the global clean energy economy. Leading businesses and investors already know this: That's why over 400 of them called on the administration to cut emissions at least 50 pct by 2030.
"With this target in place, there's not a moment to lose to start achieving it with a whole-of-government approach that leverages action from the White House and Congress. The Biden administration can jump-start progress by putting in place critical clean air and climate protections under existing law and by working with Congress to enact transformative investments in the American Jobs Plan. These measures can support millions of good-paying union jobs and improve air quality for low-income communities and communities of color that have borne and continue to bear a disproportionate share of harmful pollution.
"Critical near-term actions are available in three sectors: power, transportation, and methane from oil and gas. A key step toward meeting the 2030 target is an enforceable Clean Electricity Standard for the power sector that ensures reductions of 80 pct below 2005 by the end of the decade. With transportation as the largest source of climate pollution in the U.S. as well as a significant source of air pollution, electrifying cars, trucks and buses will be essential. And as the administration takes aggressive action to cut carbon emissions, it must also double down on actions to reduce methane -- the most immediate opportunity the world has to reduce warming now. As the world's largest oil and gas producer, the U.S. has both an opportunity and responsibility to take swift action to reduce oil and gas methane pollution here at home and be a leader in catalyzing international action on this global problem.
"As the administration implements a whole-of-government approach to meet this target, it should ensure that policies expand access to economic opportunity, reduce exposure to harmful air pollution and empower American workers in every community.
"We look forward to working with the administration, Congress, state and local leaders, businesses and advocates to help turn this bold commitment into strong policy action that delivers." (Source: Environmental Defense Fund, PR, 22 Apr., 2021) Contact: EDF Nathaniel Keohane, Senior VP for Climate, www.edf.org
More Low-Carbon Energy News Paris Climate Agreement, GHG, Greenhouse Gas, Carbon Emissions, Climate Change,
Japanese Loan to Support Indian Green Projects (Int'l. Report)
Japan International Cooperation Agency
In Tokyo, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JAIC) reports it will loan up to ¥10 billion ($90 million)to India's Tata Cleantech Capital Ltd. -- a joint venture between Tata Capital and the World Bank-backed International Finance Corporation (IFC). Tata Cleantech Capital Ltd. will use the funds to provide "green loans" to companies that focus on energy efficiency, renewable energy , and others aimed at cutting carbon emissions and mitigating the impact of climate change.
Tata Cleantech Capital has to date contributed to the development of 9.8 million kilowatts renewable energy and the reduction of 15.1 million tons of carbon dioxide. India has pledged to reduce greenhouse gas emissions per GDP by 33 to 35 pct by 2030 from the 2005 level under the 2015 Paris Climate Agreement. (Source: Japan International Cooperation Agency, PR, Kyodo News, 3 Apr., 2021) Contact: Japan International Cooperation Agency, www.jica.go.jp; Tata Cleantech Cap., www.tatacapital.com/tccl.html
More Low-Carbon Energy News Japan International Cooperation Agency, Renewable Energy ,
USGC Helps Ensure Ethanol's Environmental Role in Fuel Recovery (Opinions, Editorials & Asides)
U.S. Grains Council
"As fuel demand begins its recovery around the world, the U.S. Grains Council (USGC) is taking steps to ensure ethanol will continue to expand as a part of policy solutions that address greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and offer a comprehensive portfolio of other benefits including air quality improvement and economic value.
"USGC's ethanol team and consultants offered an update this week to the Council's Ethanol Advisory Team the member-driven group of grain producers and agribusiness representatives that identify opportunities, set priorities and chart the course of the Council every year, giving them background on ethanol's role in the Paris Agreement -- of which the US is again a member -- explaining what it means to have the U.S. rejoin and presenting an outlook for ethanol as it relates to the Paris Agreement as whole.
"As many countries have listed their transportation sectors and named biofuels or ethanol specifically to contribute to overall emissions reductions outlined in the Paris Agreement, the case can be made for U.S. ethanol to help meet these countries' global initiatives.
"Even with policies in place some countries are not meeting the intended goals or mandates, leaving room for further GHG emissions reductions. India for example has recently announced its national plan to blend 20 pct ethanol nationwide by 2025. In the most recent market year, it blended just above a 5 pct rate from a nationwide average standpoint. Filling in that blend gap will be critical to fully realize these benefits. Identifying these gaps and demonstrating the benefit and how to fill them is an ongoing role the Council provides with its global partners.
"For instance, new research from Environmental Health and Engineering Inc. demonstrates that U.S. corn-based ethanol cuts GHG emissions by 46 pct providing benefits nationally, but also globally, as ethanol trade expands. In terms of emissions reductions, this means the U.S. saved more than 4 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent in 2020 from ethanol exports alone and could provide other countries a pathway to meeting their own Paris Agreement commitments.
"Elevating the contribution that ethanol has already made to abate emissions globally is critical, and these reductions are expected to continue as further investment in abatement technologies take place and policies expand around the globe." (Source: U.S. Grains Council, PR, Website, Mar., 2021) Contact: US Grains Council, Brian D. Healy, Director Global Ethanol Market Dev, Bryan Jernigan, bjernigan@grains.org, www.grains.org
More Low-Carbon Energy News U.S. Grains Council, Paris Climate Agreement, Ethanol ,
Apple's Green Bonds Support Renewable Energy (Ind. Report)
Apple, Green Bond
IT giant Apple reports it funded 17 Green Bond renewable energy projects that avoided an average of 921,000 metric tpy of carbon emissions in 2020 as part of its planned $4.7 billion Green Bond spend. The projects will generate 1.2 GW of renewable energy globally, with Apple adding over 350 MW of newly installed renewable energy over the last year in Nevada, Illinois, Virginia, and Denmark.
In February 2016, Apple issued its first $1.5 billion Green Bond, following up with its second round of $1 billion in June 2017 after the Trump administration announcement of its intention to withdraw from the COP21 Paris Climate Agreement . In November 2019, Apple issued its third set of Green Bonds and its first in Europe, with two bonds each at €1 billion ($2.2 billion US).
Apple has invsted roughly $2.8 billion in projects that address carbon emissions. (Source: Apple, PR, Mar., 2021) Contact: Apple, www.apple com
More Low-Carbon Energy News Apple, Renewable Energy, Green Bond, Carbon Emissions,
UK Investing £150Mn for Rainforest Preservation (Int'l.)
UK Rainforest
In London, the UK has launched its new Mobilising Finance for Forests Programme, a £150 million fund to help protect rainforests equivalent to an area the size of Wales, cut millions of tonnes of carbon emissions and improve the lives of over 600,000 people in tropical forest communities across Africa, Asia and Latin America. The programme will support sustainable land-use projects and protect rainforest regions like the Amazon and Indonesian basins in communities vulnerable to climate change.
This funding will help to remove 28 million tonnes of CO2 from the atmosphere, equivalent to the offsetting London's entire CO2 emissions annually over the next 15 years, through investing in eco-friendly projects like harvesting nuts, seeds, and coffee sustainably, restoring lost forests, diversifying crops to prevent soil erosion, and launching conservation activities -- restoring tropical forests as our most effective and natural carbon capture and storage sinks.
The government program is expected to attract as much as £850 million in private investment, support thousands of green jobs across multiple sectors, such as agriculture, food, and technology in these regions, and to provide 23 pct of the reduction in carbon emissions and climate impacts needed over the next decade to meet the goals set in the Paris Climate Agreement. (Source: UK Ministry of State, PR, 12 Mar., 2021) Contact: UK International Environment Minister Lord Goldsmith , www.gov.uk/government/people/zac-goldsmith
More Low-Carbon Energy News Rainforest, Reforestation, Climate Change, Deforestation,
CIBC Joins Partnership for Carbon Accounting Financials (Ind. Report)
Following up on our 16 Dec, 2020 coverage, in Toronto, the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC) reports it has joined the Partnership for Carbon Accounting Financials (PCAF), an initiative led by the financial industry to develop a harmonized global standard to measure and disclose the greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) of loans and investments. Using jointly developed GHG accounting methodologies will help the bank align its targets with the Paris Climate Agreement, according to the bank release.
In 2019, CIBC committed $150 billion in support of environmental and sustainable finance activities by 2027 and has to date achieved 28 pct of this goal. The bank also issued the climate-related disclosure report Building a Sustainable Future aligned with the Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures.
In 2020, CIBC issued a $500 million(US), five-year green bond to help finance new and existing green projects, assets, and businesses that mitigate the risks and effects of climate change. These include renewable energy, green buildings, clean transportation, natural resource conservation, biodiversity conservation, energy efficiency, and pollution prevention and control. Also in 2020, CIBC ranked among the top-tier of global banks for climate change action by the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP).
CIBC, which recently became the first Canadian bank to join RMI's Center for Climate-Aligned Finance, has more than 10 million personal banking, business, public sector and institutional clients and $768.545 billion (Cdn) in total assets. (Source: CIBC, Website News, Feb., 2021) Contact: CIBC, Nima Ranawana, 647-456-4556, nima.ranawana@cibc.com, www.cibc.com; Partnership for Carbon Accounting, www.carbonaccountingfinancials.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News CIBC, Carbon Emissions , Partnership for Carbon Accounting,
Tikehau Low-Carbon Energy Transition Fund Raises €1Bn (Funding)
Tikehau Capital
Paris-headquartered global alternative asset management group Tikehau Capital reports completion of fundraising for its T2 Energy Transition investment strategy outperformed its original fundraising goals with over €1 billion raised. The T2 fund is one of the leading and largest global growth private equity vehicles singularly committed to enabling the transition towards a low-carbon economy and fighting global warming to help reach the goals of the 2015 Paris Climate Agreement.
To date, T2 Energy Transition investment strategy has invested €440 million in 6 SMEs focused on clean energy generation, low-carbon mobility and energy efficiency. T2 fund portfolio companies have provided goods and services that, over their lifetime, will avoid one million tons of CO2 from being emitted, according the Tikehau release.
Tikehau Capital had € 28.5 billion of assets under management as of 31 December 2020. (Source: Tikeau Capital, PR, 23 Feb., 2021) Contact: Tikehau Capital, Louis Igonet , +33 1 40 06 11 11, shareholders@tikehaucapital.com, www.tikehaucapital.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News Low Carbon Energy, Climate Change, Paris Climate Agreement,
EU "Surgical" Carbon Border Tax Proposed (Int'l. Report)
In Brussels, the European Commission (EC) will reportedly propose a highly targeted carbon border adjustment mechanism (CBAM) this year that will focus on imports from countries that are not acting to reach climate neutrality by mid-century, according to green deal chief Frans Timmermans.
As previously reported, Russian Security Council Deputy Chairman Dmitry Medvedev has called for a EU carbon border tax to comply with international agreements on climate. "If the tax is imposed, there should definitely be an effort to keep it in compliance with the EU framework convention on climate and Paris Climate Agreement. We have to hold bilateral talks on this with the EU and via dedicated international platforms, such as the WTO, the agencies that deal with climate change and relevant conventions," Medvedev noted while speaking at a meeting on the potential impact of the tax on Russia.
The EC proposed climate legislation requiring the EU to become climate-neutral by 2050 as part of the European Green Deal. This follows the December 2019 EC decision to endorse the 2050 climate-neutrality objective. On 17 September, the Commission amended its proposal to incorporate a new 2030 emissions reduction target. (Source: EC, PR, Feb., 2021) Contact: EU, www.europa.eu; European Commission, ec.europa.eu
More Low-Carbon Energy News European Green Deal, European Commission, Carbon Tax, Border Carbon Tax, Frans Timmermans,
France Exceeded 2019 CO2 Reduction Target (Int'l. Report)
Following up on our 3 Jan coverage -- Guilty as Charged! -- €1 Fine for Climate Inaction, the French Environment Ministry has acknowledged France failed to meet its target for reducing carbon emissions in 2019 with the caveat that the country's climate change progress has been "underestimated."
"In 2019, France kept its climate commitments and that's excellent news," the Ministry said announcing that emissions fell by 1.7 pct that year, exceeding the target of 1.5 pct.
In June 2020, the national emissions inventory agency CITEPA estimated that France produced 437 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent in 2019, which represented a drop of only 1 pct from the previous year. But the environment ministry noted CITEPA has since revised its estimate to 441 million tonnes, a fall of 1.7 pct.
Under the 2015 Paris Climate Agreement, France pledged to cut emissions by 40 pct by 2030 compared with 1990 levels, and aims to become carbon neutral by 2050. (Source: French Environment Ministry, AFP, Space Daily, 7 Jan., 2021) Contact: French Environment Ministry, +33 140812122, www.ec.europa.eu/environment/ecoap/etv/ministry-ecology-sustainable-development-and-energy_en
More Low-Carbon Energy News Paris Climate Agreement, Carbon Emissions,
Philly Passes Bldg. Energy Performance Legislation (Ind. Report)
In the Keystone State, Philadelphia City Council reports passage of Bill #190600 creating a new Building Energy Performance Program -- a key step toward meeting the mayor's commitment to cutting carbon pollution 25 pct by 2025 in line with the goals of the Paris Climate Agreement. When implemented, it will cut the city's carbon pollution by nearly 200,000 metric tons -- climate pollution equivalent of taking 40,000 automobiles off our roads.
The Building Energy Performance Policy mandates all non-residential buildings 50,000 square feet and larger to either submit a certification of high energy performance to the City's Office of Sustainability or conduct a tune-up to bring existing building energy systems up to a state of good repair.
To quantify potential cost savings, the City recently conducted a pilot tune-up on the Juvenile Justice Center in West Philadelphia and found that an initial $12,000 investment will result in $24,000 in annual energy savings. Citywide, the Building Energy Performance Program will result in millions of dollars in cost savings for building operators and tenants and lead to an estimated 600 new careers in the clean economy, according to the release.
A requirement for large buildings to tune-up existing systems was a key recommendation from Powering Our Future: A Clean Energy Vision for Philadelphia, a report published by the Office of Sustainability last year to help set goals toward a long-term commitment to cut carbon pollution 80 pct by 2050. (Source: City of Philadelphia, PR, Website, Jan., 2021)Contact: Philadelphia Office of Sustainability, Christine Knapp, Dir., (215) 686-6210, sustainability@phila.gov; www.phila.gov/departments/office-of-sustainability
More Low-Carbon Energy News Philadelphia Energy Authority, Energy Efficiency, Building Energy Performance,
Xi Jinping Reiterates China's Climate Change Position (Int'l.)
China Climate Change
Speaking at last week's virtual UN Climate Ambition Summit, Chinese President Xi Jinping reiterated his previously reported Sept. pledge to peak China's carbon dioxide emissions before 2030 and reach carbon neutrality by 2060.
The Chinese President added China, the world's largest GHG emitter, would cut CO2 per unit of GDP by 65 pct by 2030, from a 2005 baseline, and increase its forest stock by six billion cubic meters over the same time-frame. The cuts in carbon intensity are expected to be be achieved through an increased reliance on renewable energy.
The virtual summit -- hosted by the UN alongside the UK, France, Italy and Chile -- was a "launch-pad" event for nations and businesses to announce enhanced climate pledges as part of the Paris Agreement, and marks five years since the landmark treaty was brokered at COP21. (Source: Various Media, 12 Dec., 2020)
More Low-Carbon Energy News COP21, Paris Climate Agreement, China Climate Change,
Warsaw Joins EBRD Green Cities Framework (Int'l. Report)
EBRD Green Cities Framework
The Polish capital city of Warsaw last week announced it is joining the EBRD Green Cities Framework in cooperation with Taiwan and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD).
Partly sponsored by the TaiwanBusiness-EBRD Technical Cooperation Fund, the Green Cities Framework aims to achieve the carbon reduction targets set by the Paris Climate Agreement and attract foreign investment by strengthening environmental protection, reducing emissions and conserving energy. The EBRD regions are home to vibrant and diverse cities that span across central Europe to Central Asia, the Western Balkans and the southern and eastern Mediterranean region, according to the EBRD Green Cities website. (Source: City of Warsaw, Taiwan News, 5 Dec., 2020) Contact: EBRD Green Cities Framework, greencities@ebrd.com, www.ebrdgreencities.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News EBRD, Green Cities, Energy Management, Energy Conservation, Energy Efficiency,
NZ Promises Carbon-Neutral Government by 2025 (Int'l. Report)
In Wellington, New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern reports her government's recently declared "climate emergency" was based on the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change's findings that New Zealand's emissions would need to fall by around 45 pct from 2010 levels by 2023 and reach zero by around 2050.
To meet its goal, the government promised the public sector will achieve carbon neutrality by 2025. Government agencies would be required to measure and report emissions and offset any they can't cut by 2025.
The Prime Minister's first term Zero Carbon Bill banned new offshore oil and gas exploration, but exempted agriculture from emissions regulations. Nearly half of New Zealand's greenhouse gas emissions, mainly methane, come from agriculture.
As we reported in July, the New Zealand Ministry for the Environment (MfE) is projecting the country's net greenhouse gas emissions will peak at 72.04 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent (Mt CO2e) in 2025 -- more than double 1990 levels.
Although these figures do not take into account the impact of the recently-strengthened Emissions Trading Scheme, the impact of that policy is expected to be limited over the next decade -- in 2030, net emissions will be 64.01 Mt CO2e with the stronger ETS as opposed to the 66.07 Mt CO2e projected in the MfE figures. They will also be well above where they need to be for New Zealand to meet its commitment under the Paris Climate Agreement. (Source: New Zealand Ministry for the Environment, newsroompro, Reuters, Dec., 2020) Contact: New Zealand Ministry for the Environment, www.mfe.govt.nz
More Low-Carbon Energy News New Zealand, Carbon Emissions, Climate Change, Carbon Neutral, Methane,
Xi Calls for G-20 Paris Climate Agreement Implementation (Opinions, Editorials & Asides)
Addressing the G-20 Leaders at the Riyadh Summit via video link, Chinese President Xi Jinping called on the G-20 countries to take the lead in tackling climate change, follow the guidance of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and push for the full and effective implementation of the Paris Climate Agreement.
Xi also reaffirmed China's commitment to striving to peak carbon dioxide emissions by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2060. Xi noted "China has put in place the world's biggest clean energy system, and will pursue clean, low-carbon, safe and efficient use of energy and accelerate the growth of new energy and green industries to promote greener economic and social development in all respects."
Xi added China supports deepening G-20 cooperation in reducing land degradation, conserving coral reefs, and cleaning up plastic from the ocean.
While 19 of the G20 member country leaders were listening to Xi, the soon-to-be former U.S. President Donald Trump was tweeting and playing golf! Enough is Enough. (Source: G20, MINT, Various Media, 23 Nov., 2020)Contact: G20, www.g20.org; UNFCCC, Monique Nardi, mnardi@unfccc.int, www.unfccc.int
More Low-Carbon Energy News G20, Climate Change, Paris Climate Agreement, UNFCCC,
Emera Inc. Provides ESG Progress Update (Ind. Report Attached)
Emera
Halifax, Nova Scotia-headquartered energy services firm Emera Inc. is reporting an update of its Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) sustainability report and the company's commitment to cleaner and renewable energy while increasing reliability and affordability.
To date this year the company reports a 35 pct reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions across operations from 2005 levels and an increase in installed renewable energy capacity from 832 MW in 2018, to 1,107 MW. The report notes Emera's Nova Scotia Power unit delivered one of the fastest transitions to cleaner energy in Canada and has already achieved GHG reductions that exceed Canada's COP 21 Paris Climate Agreement commitments. Additionally, the utility boasts one of the highest integrations of wind energy in North America at 18 pct of total generation. In Florida, Emera has increased its solar capacity at Tampa Electric from nearly zero just a few years ago, to approximately 600MW today, with another 650MW slated for installation by 2023. Of Emera's $7.5 billion capital spending plan through to 2022, 60 pct is committed to cleaner energy initiatives.
Emera Inc., which had approximately $32 billion in assets and more than $6.1 billion in revenue in 2019, primarily invests in regulated electricity generation and electricity and gas transmission and distribution with a strategic focus on transformation from high-carbon to low-carbon energy sources.
Download the Emera Inc. sustainability report HERE. (Source: Emera, PR, Oct., 2020) Contact: Emera, Scott Balfour, President and CEO, www.emera.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News Emera, Renewable Energy Sustainability, Carbon Emissions, Climate Change, Low-Carbon Energy,
UN Climate Change Fosters Regional Carbon Pricing (Int'l. Report)
The Collaborative Instruments for Ambitious Climate Action (CiACA) workstream of the UNFCCC has concluded the first series of "virtual" regional dialogues on carbon pricing (REdiCAP) in Latin America, Caribbean, West Africa, East and Southern Africa and South East Asia.
The dialogues aim was to create a platform to provide an opportunity for peer learning to countries that have an interest in carbon pricing instruments, which are crucial to help countries green their economies. The dialogues came at a crucial time with Parties committed to revising their national climate action plans -- Paris Climate Agreement Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) -- and willing to explore economic instruments to increase their ambition to tackle climate change.
Several participating countries expressed interest in receiving the support provided through the CiACA initiative to explore the adoption of carbon pricing instruments. In response to a request for support, the CiACA team through the RCCs can assist the targeted institutions in facilitating consultations with key stakeholder and providing technical assistance to identify economic instruments that can be adopted by the country to contribute to achieving a low carbon future. (Source: UN Climate Change News, 9 October 2020) Contact: REdiCAP and CiACA , Monique Nardi, mnardi@unfccc.int, www.unfccc.int
More Low-Carbon Energy News UNFCCC, Carbon Emissions, Carbon Price,
Europe's Largest Bank Aims for Net-Zero Carbon by 2050 (Intl. Report)
London-listed, Asia-focused HSBC Bank reports it aims to "align its financed emissions -- the carbon emissions of its portfolio of customers -- to the Paris Climate Agreement goal to achieve net zero by 2050 or sooner." The bank -- Europe's largest with €2,219 billion in assets -- also aims to be net-zero in its operations and supply chain by 2030, according to a release.
HSBC has earmarked between $750 billion and $1.0 trillion to assist the transition. Banking major Barclays committed to zero-carbon by 2050 in March as have oil giants BP and Shell which recently confirmed their commitment to meet the Paris Climate Agreement goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. (Source: HSBC, The Edition, 9 Oct., 2020) Contact: HSBC, www.hsbc.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News HSBC Bank, Paris Climate Agreement, Net-Zero Emissions, Climate Change, BP, Shell,
DNV GL Collaborating on CCS Tech. Commercialization (Int'l.)
DNV GL,Technology Centre Mongstad
in Oslo, Norwegian risk and verification consultancy DNV GL has forged a collaboration with the Sintef research institute and Technology Centre Mongstad (TCM) to accelerate development, upscaling and commercialization of technologies for carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS) projects worldwide.
CCUS is expected to contribute to a reduction of more than 2 gigatonnes of CO2 emissions by mid-century but scaling of such technology is seen as critical to achieving national and international targets for emissions cuts in line with the Paris Climate Agreement's goals.
However, scaling of technology for carbon capture is currently not expected to start before 2030 and will not achieve a significant level until 2040 without government incentives and cost-reduction initiatives by the energy industry, according to DNV GL.
The three collaborating parties provided input to Norway's proposed Longship CCUS project that will entail a full-scale chain for carbon capture, backed by state funding of up to $1.8 billion. The project incorporates innovative elements including capture of CO2 emissions from the cement industry, transport of CO2 by ship, and temporary storage of CO2 prior to pipeline transportation and storage, according to DNV GL. (Source: DNV GL, PR, Oct., 2020) Contact: DNV GL, www.dnvgl.com; SINTEF, www.sintef.no; Technology Centre Mongstad, www.tcmda.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News DNV GL, CCS, CCUS, CO2 Emissions, Sintef, Technology Centre Mongstad,
EU Calls for Stiffened GHG Emissions Reduction Target (Int'l. Report)
EU,European Commission
On Monday, the European Union (EU) Committee on Environment, Public Health and Food Safety Executive VP Frans Timmermans presented the EC plan to reduce EU greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55 pct by 2030 compared to 1990 levels.
Timmermans noted that although GHG emissions are not currently falling fast enough he underlined that becoming carbon neutral is both feasible and beneficial for the EU. He called for the European Parliament (EP) to confirm the proposed 55 pct 2030-target as the EU's new Nationally Determined Contribution under the Paris Climate Agreement, and to submit this to the UNFCCC by the end of this year. The EP is expected to vote next week on the EU Climate Law, which calls for 60 pct emission reductions in 2030. Timmermans also noted the EC would come up with proposals by June 2021 to revise key EU legislation such as the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS), energy efficiency and renewable energy policies and strengthening CO2 standards for road vehicles to enable the EU to reach a more ambitious target.
As previously reported this past March, the EC proposed climate legislation requiring the EU to become climate-neutral by 2050 as part of the European Green Deal. This follows the December 2019 EC decision to endorse the 2050 climate-neutrality objective. On 17 September, the Commission amended its proposal to incorporate a new 2030 emissions reduction target. (Source: European Commissions, PR, EU News Room, Oct., 2020) Contact: EU, www.europa.eu
More Low-Carbon Energy News Carbon Emissions, Carbon Neutral, European Commissions, EU ETS, Climate Change,
C40 Cities Commit to Green Investments, Fossil Fuel Cuts (Ind. Report)
In New York, 12 of the world's most influential cities representing over 36 million residents have signed on to C40 Groups Divesting from Fossil Fuels, Investing in a Sustainable Future declaration. The declaration champions fossil fuel-free, green finance as a key strategy for rebuilding equitable, sustainable urban economies and increasing resilience against future crises. Signatories pledge to use their financial might to promote a just and clean energy transition through concrete actions at the city, national and international levels.
Cities signing on to the new declaration -- Berlin, Bristol, Cape Town, Durban, London, Los Angeles, Milan, New Orleans, New York City, Oslo, Pittsburgh, and Vancouver -- commit to build momentum for fossil-free and sustainable investment by:
Taking all possible steps to divest city assets from fossil fuel companies and increasing financial investments in climate solutions to help promote decent jobs and a just and green economy.
Calling on pension funds to divest from fossil fuel companies and increasing financial investments in climate solutions to help promote decent jobs and a just and green economy.
Advocating for fossil-free and sustainable finance by other investors and all levels of government, including by promoting the importance of strong, long-term climate policies and demanding greater transparency.
According to Energy Policy Tracker, more than $200 billion in COVID-19 recovery funds are being pledged to fossil fuels, though risky investments in coal, oil, and gas are key drivers of the climate emergency. Continued investment in fossil fuels drives emissions that endanger the Paris Climate Agreement goals, jeopardize efforts to limit temperature rise to 1.5 degrees C, and threaten to lock dangerous carbon emissions into economies.
The Divesting From Fossil Fuels, Investing in a Sustainable Future declaration is a critical next step towards realizing the vision for a Global Green New Deal, announced last October at the C40 World Mayors Summit in Copenhagen, Denmark. Endorsed by a broad coalition of business and labor leaders, youth activists, and civil society representatives, the Global Green New Deal reaffirms a commitment to protecting the environment, strengthening the economy, and building more equitable communities through inclusive climate action, according to the release.
C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group, Inc. is a non-profit organization and is tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code. (Source: C40 Cities, PR, 22 Sept., 2020) Contact: C40 Cities Group, www.c40.org
More Low-Carbon Energy News C40 Cities, Climate Change, Renewable Energy,
Warsaw, Miner's Unions Agree to Exit Coal by 2049 (Int'l. Report)
Poland Coal
In Warsaw, the Polish government and the powerful unions representing more than 80,000 workers are reporting an agreement to phase out and eliminate Polish coal mines by 2049 to enable the country to meet the EU target of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
Warsaw and the unions previously rejected the existing the 2050 date insisting the country's heavily coal-dependent economy needed until 2060 to completely cut its coal production and transition to a low-carbon economy. The government also expressed concern that a proposal by EU chief Ursula von der Leyen to raise the 27 member EU trading bloc's 2030 target for cutting greenhouse gas emissions from 40 to 55 pct.
Poland depends on heavily subsidized coal for 80 pct of its power needs but the industry is plagued with losses. Poland's state-owned PGG, one of Europe's largest coal companies, reported a €107 million loss in 2019 and expects dramatically larger losses in 2020. (Source: Various Media, EurActiv, 27 Sept., 2020)
More Low-Carbon Energy News Poland Coal, Coal, Carbon Emissions, Paris Climate Agreement, Carbon Emissions,
The Climate Pledge Membership Growing (Int'l. Report)
The Climate Pledge
Amazon and Global Optimism are reporting that Best Buy, McKinstry, Real Betis (sports team), Schneider Electric, and Siemens have joined The Climate Pledge, a commitment to be net-zero carbon by 2040 -- a decade ahead of the Paris Climate Accord's goal of 2050.
Climate Pledge members agree to: measure and report greenhouse gas emissions on a regular basis; implement decarbonization strategies in line with the Paris Climate Agreement through real business changes and innovations, including efficiency improvements, renewable energy, materials reductions, and other carbon emission elimination strategies; and to neutralize any remaining emissions with additional, quantifiable, real, permanent, and socially-beneficial offsets to achieve net-zero annual carbon emissions by 2040.
The Climate Pledge was founded in 2019 by Amazon and Global Optimism with a commitment to reach the Paris Climate Agreement 10 years early and be net-zero carbon by 2040. Eleven organizations have now signed The Climate Pledge including: Amazon, Best Buy, Infosys, McKinstry, Mercedes-Benz, Oak View Group, Real Betis, Reckitt Benckiser (RB), Schneider Electric, Siemens, and Verizon. (Source: Amazon,com, PR, 24 Sept., 2020) Contact: The Climate Pledge, www.theclimatepledge.com; Global Optimism, www.globaloptimism.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News The Climate Pledge, Paris Climate Accord, Climate Change, Carbon Emissions,
Houston Touts Climate Action Plan (Ind. Report)
In the Lone Star State, the city of Houston Office of Sustainability is touting the Houston Climate Action Plan to help the city of 7.1 million residents meet the Paris Agreement goal of carbon neutrality by 2050.
The Climate Action Plan provides evidenced-based measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and preventative measures to address the negative outcomes of climate change. It also demonstrates how the City will adapt and improve its resilience to climate change related hazards and future threats.
To comply with the Paris Climate Agreement, the plan will follow science-based criteria that will cap the temperature increase associated with climate change to 1.5 degrees Celsius as well as set targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and establish a pathway to becoming carbon neutral by 2050. (Source: City of Houston, Office of Sustainability, Website PR News, Sept., 2020) Contact: City of Houston, Office of Sustainability, Houston Climate Action Plan, 713.837.0311, houston311@houstontx.gov, www.greenhoustontx.gov
More Low-Carbon Energy News City of Houston, Climate Change, Carbon Emissions, GHG,
Ricardo Commits to Net Zero Carbon by 2030 (Ind. Report)
Global engineering, environmental and strategic consultancy Ricardo plc is reporting its commitment to achieve Net Zero carbon emissions from its operations by the end of 2030.
To that end, the company will: maximize the use of renewable energy; make more energy- and space-efficient use of its commercial property portfolio as more flexible office working is implemented; maximize its 'digital-first' strategy and avoid unnecessary business travel; increase energy efficiency; use verified offsetting schemes to offset residual emissions.
Ricardo's greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, including 'scope 3' emissions from air travel, for the financial reporting year 2019/2020 have been independently verified by Lloyds Register. Ricardo plans to implement Science-Based Targets during the financial year 2020/2021 to meet the goals of the Paris Climate Agreement, according to the release. (Source: Ricardo, Website, PR, 7 Sept., 2020) Contact: Ricardo, Dave Shemmans , CEO, info@ricardo.com, www.ricardo.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News Ricardo, GHG, Carbon Emissions, NetZero Carbon,
Notable Quote -- Alarm Sounded on Forest Biomass Emissions
Science Advisory Council of the European Academies
"We have repeatedly pointed out that the large-scale substitution of coal by forest biomass [to produce electricity] will accelerate climate warming and will increase the risks of overshooting Paris Climate Agreement targets.
"The reason is simple: when the forest is harvested and used for bioenergy, all the carbon in the biomass enters the atmosphere very quickly, but it will not be reabsorbed by new trees for decades. This is not compatible with the need to tackle the climate crisis urgently." -- Michael Norton, Environmental Director, Science Advisory Council of the European Academies www.easac.eu
More Low-Carbon Energy News Forest Biomass, Climate Change, Carbon Emissions, Paris Climate Agreement,
UNEP, ReNew Power Partner to Increase India Renew Energy (Int'l)
UNEP,ReNew Power
In Delhi, India's largest renewable energy company, ReNew Power, and the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) are reporting a partnership agreement to promote increased access to renewable energy and improved energy efficiency as part of the progressive strategies India has adopted to realize its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) under the Paris Climate Agreement.
ReNew Power will partner with the UNEP District Energy in Cities Initiative to support market transformation efforts to shift the heating and cooling sector to renewable and energy efficient solutions. The Initiative supports local and national governments on building local know-how and implementing enabling policies to accelerate investment in modern -- low-carbon and climate resilient -- district energy systems. The Initiative also works with cities and industry to identify, assess and tender bankable district energy projects based on international best practices.
Renewable energy sources constitute about 23.6 pct of total installed capacity in India which has targeted 175 GW of renewables capacity by 2022. (Source: UNEP, PR, 25 Aug., 2020) Contact: ReNew Power Private Ltd., District Energy in Cities Initiative, www.districtenergyinitiative.org; UNEP, Office for Asia and the Pacific, +91- 9811609245, www.unenvironment.org]
More Low-Carbon Energy News UNEP, ReNew Power, Energy Efficiency, Renewable Energy,
Russia's Medvedev Urging EU Carbon Border Tax (Int'l. Report)
In Moscow, Russian Security Council Deputy Chairman Dmitry Medvedev on Wednesday called for a EU carbon border tax to comply with international agreements on climate.
"If the tax is imposed, there should definitely be an effort to keep it in compliance with the EU framework convention on climate and Paris Climate Agreement. We have to hold bilateral talks on this with the EU and via dedicated international platforms, such as the WTO, the agencies that deal with climate change and relevant conventions," Medvedev noted while speaking at a meeting on the potential impact of the tax on Russia.
Dmitry Anatolyevich Medvedev is a Russian politician who is serving as Deputy Chairman of the Security Council of Russia, headed by Vladimir Putin. He served as prime minister of Russia between 2012 and 2020. From 2008 to 2012, Medvedev served as president of Russia. (Source: Sputnik, 26 Aug., 2020)
More Low-Carbon Energy News Carbon Tax, Border Carbon Tax,
UNEP, ReNew Power to Increase Indian Energy Efficiency (Int'l. Report)
In Delhi, India's largest renewable energy company, ReNew Power, and the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) are reporting a partnership agreement to promote increased access to renewable energy and improved energy efficiency as part of the strategies India adopted to realize its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) under the Paris Climate Agreement.
The two organizations will support the heating and cooling market transformation to renewable energy and increased energy efficiency. The Initiative helps local and national governments build "local know-how" and implement enabling policies to accelerate investment in modern low-carbon and climate resilient district energy systems. The Initiative also works with cities and industry to identify, assess and tender bankable district energy projects based on international best practices.
Renewable sources constitute about 23.6 pct of total installed capacity in India which has targeted 175 GW of renewables capacity by 2022. (Source: UNEP, PR, 25 Aug., 2020) Contact: ReNew Power Private Limited District Energy in Cities Initiative, www.districtenergyinitiative.org; UNEP, Office for Asia and the Pacific, +91- 9811609245, www.unenvironment.org] More Low-Carbon Energy News UNEP news, ReNew Power news, Energy Efficiency news, Renewable Energy news,
More Low-Carbon Energy News UNEP news, ReNew Power news, Energy Efficiency news, Renewable Energy news,
IAIA Releases Climate Change Position Statement (Report Attached)
International Association for Impact Assessment
In Washington, DC, the International Association for Impact Assessment (IAIA) has released a position statement declaring its solidarity with the world's scientific community in expressing grave concern that the global climate emergency is accelerating the deterioration of systems that support life on Earth and is threatening our common future. This is the first official position statement in IAIA's 40 years of existence.
The statement comes on the heels of a recent IAIA survey of over 900 impact assessment professionals showing that 75 pct of respondents believe it is highly important that impact assessment processes be applied to enhance climate change mitigation in anticipated post-COVID-19 infrastructure programs.
Since the IAIA Board of Directors finalized the statement in March, a set of priority climate change actions have been developed and are being carried out by IAIA's Climate Change Section. IAIA will support these efforts through organizational actions, including:
Using its role as an Observer to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) to support actions under the Paris Agreement and to request the Conference of the Parties and the UNFCCC to champion the precautionary use of IA processes as essential climate change adaptation/mitigation tools;
Liaising directly with institutional investors, insurance industry, and risk analysts on the importance of IA, since these sectors have far reaching effects on the long-term sustainability of policies and programs;
Building vital relationships with journalists to create better bridges of communication between IA practitioners and both policy-makers and the general public.
Download the IAIA's Full Climate Change Position Statement HERE .
IAIA is a forum for advancing innovation, development and communication of best practice in impact assessment. Its international membership promotes development of local and global capacity for the application of environmental assessment in which sound science and full public participation provide a foundation for equitable and sustainable development. IAIA supports individuals and organizations involved in these and related disciplines by providing a forum for the exchange of ideas and opportunities for collaboration, according to the organization's website. (Source: IAIA Webdite, Aug., 2020) Contact: IAIA, David Bancroft, Exec. Dir., (202) 567 7410, (701) 2977908, (701) 297 7917 -- fax, info@iaia.org, www.iaia.org
More Low-Carbon Energy News UNFCCC, Paris Climate Agreement, International Association for Impact Assessment , IAIA, Cliamte Change,
Repsol Produces Spain's First Aviation Biofuel (Int'l. Report)
Madrid-based integrated energy company Repsol SA is reporting production of 7,000 tons of aviation fuel made from biomass at its Puertollano Industrial Complex in Ciudad Real. The production is the first in Spain. The first 7,000 tons of aviation fuel made from biomass -- equal to the consumption of 100 Madrid-Los Angeles flights -- has a bio content under 5 pct in order to meet the quality standards established by international specifications. Using the fuel will prevent the release of roughly 400 tons of CO2 into the atmosphere -- equal to 40 Madrid-Barcelona flights.
As previously reported, Repsol is aiming to be zero emissions company by 2050 in accordance with the Paris Climate Agreement. To that end, The company recently announced the launch of two major pioneering decarbonization industrial projects at the Petronor refinery. The first project involves the construction of one of the largest plants in the world for producing net zero emissions fuels from CO2 and green hydrogen, generated with renewable energy. This facility will set a new benchmark in Europe thanks to the cutting-edge technology applied and the use of captured CO2 as raw material in the Petronor refinery. The second project is a plant for generating gas from urban waste, which will replace part of the traditional fuels used in Petronor's production process. (Source: Repsol, The Corner, Aug., 2020)Contact: Repsol SA, Josu Jon Imaz, CEO, (+34) 91 753 8100, 91 753 8000, sacportal@repsol.com, www.repsol.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News Repsol, Aviation Biofuel,
Husky Energy Releases 2020 Carbon Goals (Ind. Report)
Calgary, Alberta-based Husky Energy today released its 2020 ESG Report that includs a GHG emissions intensity reduction target of 25 pct by 2025 and the company's aim to be net zero by 2050 under the Paris Climate Agreement.
To that end, the company notes it will continue to invest in new technologies and carbon offsets and will continue its technology partnerships with Svante on carbon capture. Additionally, all Husky business units will maintain a carbon management plan, including requirements to meet or exceed our 2025 25 pct emissions intensity reduction target, and all company senior executive contracts link compensation to meeting or exceeding carbon performance requirements. (Source: Husky Energy, PR, Aug., 2020) Contact: Husky Energy; Rob Peabody, CEO, Leo Villegas, Senior Manager, Investor Relations 403-513-7817, www.huskyenergy.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News Husky Energy, Climate Change, Carbon Emissions,
Biden Takes a Stand on Climate Change (Opinions, Editorials & Asides)
The 2020 US Democratic presidential presumptive candidate Joe Biden's campaign has released the following position on clean energy and climate change:
Democrats commit to eliminating carbon pollution from power plants by 2035.
Wind and solar energy will be increased dramatically through the installation of 500 million solar panels and 60,000 made-in-America wind turbines.
Any clean energy infrastructure financed with federal support "through the tax code" should include robust wage and labor requirements.
Fossil fuel subsidies will be repealed.
California's primacy in Clean Air Act regulation of cars and trucks will be recognized and protected.
Oil and gas methane pollution will be reduced by the application of "robust" federal standards and targeted support for repairing and replacing aging distribution systems.
By 2030, all new buildings will achieve the goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions. Within five years, the Democrats will "incentivize" tens of billions of dollars in private-sector investments to retrofit the energy efficiency of four million buildings.
The country's entire fleet of school buses will transition to zero-emission buses to reduce harmful air pollution within five years.
The US will rejoin the the Paris Climate Agreement. A new Executive Order should be issued on climate and environmental Justice. There will be a strong emphasis on building environmental justice governmental institutions and practices. An environmental justice fund will be created to make "historic investments" in low-income communities, and remediating Superfund and other contaminated sites will address other issues afflicting these communities. Democrats will employ screening and mapping tools to ensure racial and socio-economic equity in federal climate, energy and infrastructure programs.
Fossil fuel companies will be held accountable for cleaning up abandoned mine lands ,oil and gas wells and industrial facilities so they can be safely "repurposed," especially in the coal country.
Innovative technologies will be advanced that create cost-effective pathways for industries to decarbonize, including carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) and "advanced nuclear" that eliminates risks associated with conventional nuclear technology.
America's natural carbon sinks on public lands will be increased by ensuring 30 percent of our lands and waters are conserved by 2030.
A new "climate test" will be applied to ensure that all major domestic and international infrastructure projects that require federal approval will avoid or minimize climate impacts, including impacts from export terminals.
The Federal Government should be reorganized by transforming the CEQ into a Council on Climate Change; establish a new office of Environmental Justice within the Department of Justice; create an Office of Climate Mobilization in the White House; establish a White House Council on frontline Environmental Justice where community and national leaders would inform the design and execution of climate change laws, policies and programs.
Editor's Note: To ensure unbiased and equal coverage to all candidates , this publication will provide detailed coverage of the incumbent Republican Donald Trump's position on clean energy and climate change if and when his position paper is released.
More Low-Carbon Energy News Climate Change, Clean Energy,
Dole Pledges Net Zero Emissions by 2030 (Ind. Report)
Dole Packaged Foods , the world's largest fruit producer and distributor, has announced its new sustainability pledge to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2030 20 years ahead of the Paris Climate Agreement deadline.
To that end, the company aims to achieve zero fruit loss at all Dole farms to markets and eliminate all fossil-based plastic packaging by 2024. (Source: Dole Packaged Foods, PR, July, 2020) Contact: Dole, www.dolesunshine.com
More Low-Carbon Energy News Net Zero Carbon, Carbon Emissions,
EU MEPs Call for Renewables, Energy Storage to Spur Decarbonization (Opinions, Editorials & Aside)
European Union,European Commission
In Brussels, Members of the European Union Parliament (MEPs) Industry, Research and Energy Committee have outlined their strategy for renewable energy, 'green' hydrogen, and energy storage, all of which play a crucial role in reaching the goals of the Paris Agreement on Climate change.
The Committee calls on the EC and member states to remove regulatory barriers that hamper the development of energy storage projects, such as double taxation or shortcomings in EU network codes. The Trans-European energy networks also need to be revised in order to improve eligibility criteria for those wishing to develop energy storage facilities.
MEPs also highlight the potential of hydrogen produced from renewable sources ("green hydrogen" ) and call on the EC to continue supporting research into and development of a hydrogen economy. The EC should also assess if retrofitting gas infrastructure to transport hydrogen is possible, as the use of natural gas is only of a transitional nature.
The committee also supports the EC's efforts to create European standards for batteries and to reduce dependence on their production outside of Europe. The EU's heavy dependence on importing raw materials from sources where extraction degrades the environment should be reduced through enhanced recycling schemes and by sourcing raw materials sustainably, possibly in the EU.
Finally, MEPs propose ways to boost other storage options, such as mechanical and thermal storage, as well as the development of decentralized storage through home batteries, domestic heat storage, vehicle-to-grid technology and smart home energy systems. The EC estimates that the EU will need to be able to store six times more energy than today to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
According to lead MEP Claudia Gamon, "Energy storage will be essential for the transition to a decarbonized economy based on renewable energy sources. As electricity generated by wind or solar energy will not always be available in the quantities needed, we will need to store energy. Apart from storage technologies that we already know work well like pumped hydro storage, a number of technologies will play a crucial role in the future, such as new battery technologies, thermal storage or "green" hydrogen. These must be given market access to ensure a constant energy supply for European citizens." (Source: European Union News, European Commission PR, July, 2020)
More Low-Carbon Energy News Paris Climate Agreement, Renewable Energy, Energy Storage, Hydrogen,
IETA Council Guidance on Net Zero Climate Ambition (Ind. Report)
International Emissions Trading Association
According to the Geneva, Switzerland-headquartered International Emissions Trading Association's (IETA) recently published IETA Council Guidance on Net Zero Climate Ambition "the global need for enhanced ambition in response to climate change is reflected in the Paris Climate Agreement. It seeks to inspire delivery of nationally determined contributions (NDCs) that align over time with its ultimate goal of holding global average temperature increases to well below 2 degree C, pursuing efforts towards 1.5 degree C. To get there, it aims to reach a balance of sources and sinks by mid-century. Current NDCs are far from this goal, and they need to move urgently in the 'net zero' direction.
"There is a rich history of companies using voluntary strategies that set carbon neutrality goals for their business operations. These strategies focus on deep reductions and avoidances of emissions, while using verified offsets to compensate for any remaining emissions. But Paris calls on all of us to aim higher -- to reach for that balance in sources and sinks that many are calling a net zero goal. This signals even deeper reductions and increasing amounts of removals," the report notes.
Download the IETA Council Guidance on Net Zero Climate Ambition report HERE. (Source: IETA, June, 2020) Contact: IETA, secretariat@ieta.org, Tel: +41 22 737 05 00 , Fax: +41 22 737 05 08, www.itea.org
More Low-Carbon Energy News International Emissions Trading Association, Carbon Emissions, Climate Change,


I used BulkRegister to enter the user information (including email). I saw that a corresponding colon delimited entry was made in .htpasswd. Then I use the BulkResetPassword to send out the temporary passwords. At this point, the email address is deleted from .htpasswd and subsequent requests for reset password fail with "Can't get an e-mail address for TestTest? (required for password reset)" message.
I apologize in advance if this issue has been resolved already.
Doesn't seem unfair to hang on to currently set e-mail address when resetting a password.


text:
//------------------------------------------------------------------------------
// <auto-generated>
//     This code was generated by a tool.
//
//     Changes to this file may cause incorrect behavior and will be lost if
//     the code is regenerated.
// </auto-generated>
//------------------------------------------------------------------------------

namespace EPiServer.Commerce.Sample.Templates.Sample.Units.CartCheckout.SharedModules {

    public partial class EntryQuantityControl {

        /// <summary>
        /// QuantityTextBox control.
        /// </summary>
        /// <remarks>
        /// Auto-generated field.
        /// To modify move field declaration from designer file to code-behind file.
        /// </remarks>
        protected global::System.Web.UI.WebControls.TextBox QuantityTextBox;

        /// <summary>
        /// QuantityDropDown control.
        /// </summary>
        /// <remarks>
        /// Auto-generated field.
        /// To modify move field declaration from designer file to code-behind file.
        /// </remarks>
        protected global::System.Web.UI.WebControls.DropDownList QuantityDropDown;

        /// <summary>
        /// QuantityLabel control.
        /// </summary>
        /// <remarks>
        /// Auto-generated field.
        /// To modify move field declaration from designer file to code-behind file.
        /// </remarks>
        protected global::System.Web.UI.WebControls.Label QuantityLabel;
    }
}

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


text:
unhhhh best moments
In one Krazy Kat strip, there is a Spanish-language poster that changes with every frame (and changes fence side for one frame), but is always a word or phrase in Spanish with an image that … This Netflix original is a must-watch for every RuPaul's Drag Race fan, and not just because of the many cameos it features by the queens you know and love from the reality show.RuPaul stars as the down-on-his luck Robert or Ruby Red, who has to go on a road trip across America in a rundown RV after all his money gets stolen by a con man. ... previously told EW of the film's tense moments … Yes, 2020 was a dumpster of a year, but a world that contains Girls (both Golden and Gilmore), a fancy-dancing Hugh Grant, and an app that puts Harry Styles on your pillow can still spark joy. Your mom's favorite web series is now in podcast form! Used frequently by the comic artist George Herriman, often as Running Gags.A recurring Funny Background Event in his comic The Dingbat Family eventually led to his most famous creation, Krazy Kat.. Entertainment. To celebrate it's 4th year on the interwebs, UNHhhh announces a new advice segment called #WOWHelpMe. ... Katya's best moments! Choose from your favorite brand "Trixie Mattel" collection that will give you a perfect online merchandise store with great offers and deals! Sign Up Now! The series premiered on Fri Mar 25, 2016 on YouTube and Random XII (S05E33) last aired on Wed Dec 30, 2020. Best shows to watch on World of Wonder Presents Plus, the LGBTQ+ streaming service: From Drag Race to Trixie and Katya's UNHhhh George Griffiths Friday 10 Jul 2020 10:19 am 'UNHhhh' season 5 will premiere later this year on WOW Presents Plus, as announced by World of Wonder, Trixie Mattel, and Katya. See the air date here. Archive ... and specials sure to cater to all viewers. Because she's not just a regular Mom...she's a cool Mom. UNHhhh is a 11 minute comedy-talk show starring Katya as herself and Trixie Mattel as herself. Close Menu Home; Genre. 11.4K Fans. Trixie Mattel and Katya announce UNHhhh season 5 air date. RuPaul's Drag Race season 7 queens Trixie Mattel and Katya Zamolodchikova talk about whatever they want, and now you can listen while you do other things with your eyes. All the tea on 'Drag Race UK' & 'Drag Race Canada' The next 'Drag Race'? Share. UNHhhh 5 seasons. By Trey Speegle on February 8, 2021 6:15 am 2021's Super Bowl ads were every bit as entertaining as the game itself. "Random WTF" "The Worst Hook-up's" "Job's before drag" "How to Flirt" "Beauty Tip's part one and two" Shop affordable wall art to hang in dorms, bedrooms, offices, or anywhere blank walls aren't welcome. Seriously, start at the beginning. Explore IMDb's Best Of 2020 Check out IMDb's highest-rated movies and TV shows of 2020, most-viewed trailers, top stars, memorable moments, and more! Your mom's favorite web series is now in podcast form! UNHhhh 1-100: Every Episode's Best Moment (in order) UNHhhh Ep. Everyone sees the edited version of everything and this movie is completely different," Mattel said. Sia - Rainbow (From The 'My Little Pony: The Movie' Official Soundtrack) (Official Video) SiaVEVO 41 120 515 просмотров Discover the best of 2020 Do you have a burning question for these two professional crossdressers? Translate this Page. UNHhhh By World of Wonder Productions, Inc. Unique Katya And Trixie Mattel Posters designed and sold by artists. While narrowing it down to a top 5 is almost impossible, here are some personal favorites. BEST OF TRIXIE with Trixie Mattel and Katya Zamolodchikova. 135: Season 7 React UNHhhh Ep 54: \"Best of Katya\" w/ Trixie Mattel \u0026 Katya Zamolodchikova RuPaul's Drag Race season 7 queens Trixie Mattel and Katya Zamolodchikova talk about whatever they want, and now you can listen while you do other things with your eyes. From season 6 of RuPaul's Drag Race, the … Here are some of the best. UNHhhh Tag. There is not a dull moment. Action; Action & Adventure; Adventure; Animation; Comedy Welcome to UNHhhh, the podcast where they talk about whatever they want - cuz it's their podcast, and not yours! Hide ads with VIP UNHhhh / S01E01 : Pilot RuPaul's Drag Race season 7 queens Trixie Mattel and Katya Zamolodchikova talk about whatever they want, and now you can listen while you do other things with your eyes. After talking to talent agents, managers, club bookers, and producers, we determined America's top-100 Drag Race superstars, including Bianca del … The Skinny Legend has arrived with a new line of cosmetic products to help bring out your inner queen from Trixie Mattel. Trixie Mattel is the stage name of Brian Michael Firkus, an American singer, actor, drag queen and recognized "Skinny Legend." The Trixie & Katya Show is an American comedy television series featuring drag queens Trixie Mattel and Katya Zamolodchikova, who both rose to prominence competing on the seventh season of RuPaul's Drag Race. Why we can't wait for RuPaul's talk show. The show is a spin-off of the YouTube series UNHhhh, which turned both Trixie and Katya into "viral internet stars". Best of UNHhhh (@bestofunhhhh) on TikTok | 207.7K Likes. The official streamer of all things drag. Trixie's best moments! reliving my favorite moments while we wait for s6 UNHhhh. Play Episode Download (20.2 MB) RuPaul's Drag Race season 7 queens Katya Zamolodchikova and Trixie Mattel in 'UNHhhh.' Your mom's favorite web series is now in podcast form! By World of Wonder Productions, Inc. Best of 2020 . For the beginner of UNHhhh, the best episodes to start with are as follows: All of them! Best of 2020. 0 Comments. Here's everything you need to know about Trixie and Katya's return to set for more UNHhhh. ... mail. Jinkx is on a mission to be a more active mother and spend quality time with her gay son. #SuperBowl: 10 Best Ads From Timothy Chalamet as "Edgar Scissorhands" to Cardi B on "Wayne's World" Watch. April 10, 2020 • 15 minutes BEST OF TRIXIE with Trixie Mattel and Katya Zamolodchikova. Welcome to WOW Presents Plus, the only streaming service featuring Werq The World, UNHhhh with Trixie and Katya, and hundreds of other World of Wonder originals, documentaries, and specials. Produced in a similar format to Mattel and Zamolodchikova's web series UNHhhh and The Trixie & Katya Show, I Like to Watch follows its hosts as they view and react to various Netflix Original Programming. Explore IMDb's Best Of 2020 Check out IMDb's highest-rated movies and TV shows of 2020, most-viewed trailers, top stars, memorable moments, and more! Tweet your query @WorldofWonder using the hashtag #WOWHelpMe for Trixie & Katya to answer in an upcoming episode.
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unhhhh best moments 2021

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


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text:
CryptocurrencyCyber CrimeHackingIntelligenceLandscapesNational DefenseNational SecuritySecurity
Predictive Analytics to Detect Covid Relief Fraud
Posted March 8, 2022 Ken Jackson
When the COVID-19 pandemic struck, stores and restaurants closed, factories were shuttered and millions of American residents suddenly found themselves out of work. The federal government and state agencies quickly offered pandemic-related benefits, including additional unemployment insurance, housing assistance, health care, food and nutrition and paycheck-protection loans.
But the surge in funding and benefits claims inevitably resulted in high levels of fraud, waste and abuse. For instance, one study found that as many as 15%, or $76 billion, of the federal government's Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans were potentially fraudulent.
By September 2021, more than $87 billion in federal pandemic unemployment benefits had been paid improperly, largely due to fraud. Much of the abuse was linked to organized crime rings using stolen identity data.
State benefit programs also grappled with abuse. Washington State, for instance, called in the National Guard to help process 190,000 unemployment benefits claims that were flagged as potentially fraudulent. Meanwhile, residents across the country whose identities were stolen were hit with tax bills for benefits they never received.
A common approach to identifying benefits fraud is to use details from known past cases to train a machine-learning (ML) algorithm. The algorithm quickly learns to determine the probability that a case is fraudulent. Of course, this technique requires knowing which cases are fraudulent, so it can be less effective against previously unseen fraud patterns.
Graph-based analytic approaches, such as social network analysis, can help. Rather than looking at a single claim as the unit of review, graph-based analysis looks for connections among multiple suspicious claims — such as a large number of claims associated with a single username, email address, IP address or bank account.
Some of these patterns can be difficult for fraud analysts to recognize, particularly when fraudulent cases are hidden within a large population of legitimate beneficiaries. But ML-based pattern recognition can determine, for example, that an unusually high proportion of claimants are associated with a data breach at a single bank. That can be useful for uncovering claims from crime groups responsible for fraud clusters.
Combining such ML algorithms with the insights of fraud analysts can be highly effective. These "human in the loop" methods can also help agencies maintain public trust by adding transparency and explicability to the fraud detection process. This is especially helpful when using sophisticated artificial intelligence algorithms, which can deliver outputs in ways that are opaque to anyone but a data scientist. Adding the knowledge and experience of fraud analysts to the speed and number-crunching capabilities of AI can also help eliminate perceived bias in fraud detection.
cybersecuritydatasecurityEncryptionHackingintelligencenationaldefensenationalsecuritynationstateOSINTprecrimepredictiveanalyticsSIGNETterrorismTheUmbrathreatUmbra
⟵Australia Will Ramp Up Analysis and Missile Modeling Due to China Threat
2022 National Intelligence Threat Assessment Released⟶