environment
Newsletter
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Record-breaking heat scorches Japan and China this summer
Japan experienced its hottest summer on record, while parts of China logged their warmest August ever, as both nations faced extreme heatwaves driven by climate change.
In short:
- Japan recorded its highest average summer temperature since records began in 1898, with more than 8,800 instances of extreme heat.
- China's August temperatures were the highest ever recorded in several regions, leading to school delays and extended holidays in some provinces.
- Climate scientists warn that 2024 may become the hottest year ever recorded due to ongoing global warming.
Why this matters:
The persistent and intensifying heatwaves in Asia highlight the growing impact of climate change, stressing the need for urgent action to mitigate its effects and protect vulnerable populations.
Related coverage:
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Kamala Harris’ Senate work reveals her environmental priorities
Kamala Harris’ time in the Senate highlights her focus on environmental issues like Superfund sites, nuclear waste and invasive species, which provide insight into her potential presidency.
In short:
- Harris emphasized cleaning up Superfund sites, particularly in California, and criticized the slow progress of these efforts.
- She raised concerns about nuclear waste disposal, specifically the risks posed by the San Onofre plant in San Diego.
- Harris addressed the threat of invasive species, like quagga mussels, and pressed for better management and funding to combat them.
Key quote:
“Our government should not pretend that PFAS contamination is not happening, and we should do something about it.”
— Kamala Harris, U.S. Vice President
Why this matters:
Kamala Harris’ Senate record suggests she will prioritize aggressive action on environmental cleanup and regulation. Her positions on these issues could shape national policy if she wins the presidency.
Be sure to see: Harris could expand environmental justice efforts as president
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Recent Supreme Court rulings could hinder climate policies
The Supreme Court's recent decisions limiting federal authority are already complicating the legal landscape for environmental regulations, potentially slowing down critical climate action.
In short:
- The Supreme Court's rulings, including the overturning of the Chevron doctrine, weaken federal agencies' ability to enforce climate-related regulations.
- Lower courts have started to return cases for reconsideration, leading to delays and uncertainty in climate policy implementation.
- Legal experts warn that the uncertainty may discourage federal agencies from pursuing ambitious climate policies.
Key quote:
"We are at a critical point for climate action, and in the absence of Congressional legislation, we’re going to be asking our federal agencies to do more and more with the statutory tools that they already have."
— Jason Rylander, legal director, Center for Biological Diversity
Why this matters:
These Supreme Court rulings could significantly delay or derail efforts to mitigate climate change by limiting the power of federal agencies. Without bold regulatory action, achieving critical climate goals may become increasingly difficult.
Related EHN coverage:
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Rio Tinto faces growing opposition to Serbian lithium mine
Tensions are escalating over Rio Tinto’s plans for a major lithium mine in Serbia, with locals fearing environmental destruction and geopolitical manipulation.
In short:
- Rio Tinto’s stalled lithium project in Serbia has sparked widespread protests due to environmental concerns and political controversies.
- The Serbian government initially canceled the project but reversed course under EU pressure, reigniting public anger.
- Critics accuse the West of using the mine to pull Serbia away from Russia while sacrificing local environmental safety.
Key quote:
“I don’t need green cars. I need green apples and green grass.”
— Angela Rojovic, protester.
Why this matters:
The conflict highlights the tension between global environmental goals and local concerns. It also underscores the geopolitical tug-of-war over critical resources like lithium.
Related: In push to mine for minerals, clean energy advocates ask what going green really means
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Humans may start mining the deep sea despite limited knowledge
A new leader at the International Seabed Authority could pave the way for deep-sea mining, raising concerns about its environmental impact.
In short:
- The International Seabed Authority (ISA) governs over half of the world’s ocean floor and is debating whether to allow deep-sea mining.
- The newly elected ISA secretary-general, Leticia Carvalho, may oversee the first mining operations despite scientific concerns about environmental harm.
- Recent studies suggest deep-sea mining could have irreversible ecological consequences, threatening unique marine life.
Key quote:
“The environmental implications will be significant. They would be irreversible on human timescales.”
— Pradeep Singh, ocean governance expert at the Research Institute for Sustainability
Why this matters:
Mining the deep sea could damage ecosystems that are crucial to ocean health, with impacts that may last for centuries. As the ISA considers approving mining, global debate intensifies over whether the potential economic benefits outweigh the environmental risks.
Related: UN debates deep sea mining code amid global concerns
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Walz's shifting stance on environmental policy
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, once known for his conservative environmental record in Congress, has embraced aggressive climate policies as the vice presidential nominee.
Emma Dumain, Kelsey Brugger and Nico Portuondo report forE&E News.
In short:
- Walz supported controversial projects like the Keystone XL pipeline during his congressional tenure.
- As governor, he shifted to lead Minnesota in adopting stringent environmental policies, including a clean electricity standard targeting net-zero emissions by 2040.
- Observers note Walz’s evolution on climate policy aligns with broader shifts in the Democratic Party's priorities.
Key quote:
“He has evolved as his role has evolved and the issue of climate change has evolved.”
— Trent Bauserman, former congressional climate adviser
Why this matters:
Walz’s evolution reflects the growing importance of climate action in American politics.
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Credit: Gino Santa Maria/Big Stock Photo
Trump eyes former allies for possible EPA leadership role
Donald Trump may tap a former EPA chief or top advisor to lead the agency if he wins a second term, aiming to dismantle Biden-era regulations.
In short:
- Andrew Wheeler, Trump’s last EPA head, is a leading contender if Trump wins, with support from key former officials.
- Mandy Gunasekara, another former EPA official, has declined interest despite being a strong candidate.
- Trump may also consider other loyalists like Aurelia Skipwith Giacometto or Doug Benevento.
Key quote:
“They need to be able to set an agenda and go immediately.”
— Former Trump EPA official
Why this matters:
Trump’s EPA leader would face the challenge of rapidly rolling back environmental regulations and reshaping the agency. The appointment could significantly weaken U.S. environmental policy and hinder efforts to combat climate change.
Related EHN coverage:
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