Alaska Conservation Solutions

Global Warming Newsletter - August 2007

Subject:	Global Warming Newsletter - August 2007
Send date:	0000-00-00 00:00:00
Issue #:	23
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Global Warming News from Alaska August 31, 2007 Reporting from The Front Line Dear Friends, Alaska and the circumpolar North continue to be ground zero for global warming. As we witness the record melting of the Arctic Ice Cap, we are observing the dramatic loss of critical habitat, as well as the diminishment of our earth's solar-radiation-reflecting northern white shield. Less ice adversely affects not only arctic ecosystems and inhabitants, but also the rest of the world's temperature. Perhaps more than any other indicator of global warming, the shrinking Arctic ice cap underscores the clear, measurable, and unmistakable fingerprints of global warming, and our need to take prompt, comprehensive, and significant action to address it. Achieving national legislation is within reach; and with additional effort and commitment, it can be attained. Meanwhile, many excellent efforts are forthcoming at the state, local and business levels, while other countries continue to recognize and act on the urgency of global warming. Alaska and Polar Global Warming News – The Latest Evidence and Developments Arctic Ice Cap Melts to Record Low The Arctic Ice Cap is smaller than ever recorded. Previously, the absolute record minimum ice extent was 5.32 million square kilometers (2.05 million square miles), occurring on September 20–21, 2005. As of August 27th of this year, the ice extent was only: 4.78 million square kilometers (1.84 million square miles). To view the excellent site from the National Snow and Ice Data Center, which shows the stark images of the Ice Cap loss, click here (see also trends click here). Unfortunately, more melting will occur before the end of September; so the final, tragic record minimum will be reported in the next newsletter. As the satellite images show, the ice cap has especially pulled back from Alaska and Russia. For example, the sea ice in August is usually within 30 miles of Wainwright Alaska, but it is now over 300 miles from shore. Among other impacts, this has changed walrus behavior and reduced walrus harvests (Anchorage Daily News 8/17/07). For a new, excellent description of the impacts of global warming on walrus see: Defenders of Wildlife, Navigating the Arctic Meltdown 8/07. New islands are being revealed north of Svalbard that are not found on any maps (Reuters 8/21/07). Territory "Rush" Under Arctic Ocean As the Arctic Ice Cap melts, several countries are rushing to claim new territory. In essence, global warming is causing border conflicts; or, perhaps the beginning of a "cold" undersea "war" for territory. For an excellent overview article see: Economist 8/3/07. In a high profile mini-submarine expedition, a team of Russians planted a flag on the seabed at the North Pole, four kilometers under the sea ice, and claimed ownership (International Herald Tribune 8/2/07). Russia is asserting that the seabed under the North Pole is an extension of their continental shelf and that they own this area rich in oil, gas, and minerals. According to Mr. Chilingarov, "The Arctic is ours and we should manifest our presence" (Economist 8/3/07). If Russia's claim is recognized, Russia would control nearly half of the Arctic's approximately half million square mile sea bed (Independent 8/3/07). In a parallel effort, a Danish expedition is also exploring their bases for future claims to land under the Arctic Ocean (BBC 8/21/07). Certain Danish scientists, including Science Minister Sander, believe that the North Pole belongs to their country, under the terms of the UN's Law of the Sea Convention. Canada, too, is exhibiting a strong interest in the Arctic, and is planning on spending $7 billion on eight new Arctic patrol vessels. Prime Minister Stephen Harper toured Canada's Arctic, vowing "to vigorously protect our Arctic sovereignty as international interest in the region increases" (New York Times 8/11/07). Often Americans forget that the United States is an arctic nation too. Because Alaska borders the Arctic Ocean, the US has a tremendous stake in these developments. Newtok Update: Photos, Observations, and Bubbling Methane On August 27, Alaska Conservation Solutions visited the global-warming-imperiled community of Newtok in western Alaska. According to the US Corps of Engineers, Newtok is one of three villages in Alaska that must be relocated within the next 10 to 15 years (Corps Report 4/2006). The United States General Accounting Office (GAO) has noted that Newtok, like Shishmaref and Kivalina, are in "imminent danger" (GAO Report 6/29/04). The evidence of global warming in and around Newtok is startling. The village itself is now on the verge of submersion and is already experiencing substantial, detrimental flooding during the fall storm season. In addition to massive erosion and loss of coastline, you can clearly observe cliffs where exposed permafrost is melting at dramatic, dynamic rates and where bubbling methane can be ignited. See video footage and photos taken on this trip. In a boat you can float over submerged land that was a beach in front of the village just a year ago. The raised sidewalks in Newtok are buckled, and the entire village is at significant risk. Fortunately, Newtok is taking action to relocate their community to higher ground on nearby Nelson Island, where residents have already built three homes. They need - and deserve - substantial financial assistance, however, to build the necessary infrastructure at the relocation site, including a new school. The people of Newtok represent future global warming refugees, whom our nation has a moral obligation to assist. Other Alaska and Arctic Developments and Items of Note Global Warming Clouds. Noctilucent clouds are upper-atmospheric, wispy, icy clouds, which appear to be more prevalent than before (Innovations 8/22/07) (Live Science 8/21/07). According to Dr. Collins at the University of Alaska, "It is believed that (these clouds) are an indicator of climate change." They occur in the cold mesopause region of the atmosphere, approximately 50 miles above the Earth's surface. Because carbon dioxide traps heat in the lower atmosphere, the upper atmosphere becomes cooler when concentrations of carbon dioxide increase, fostering conditions that enhance the creation of these icy clouds. Coal Plant Regulation Adopted. Alaska is at a crossroads with respect to the state's energy future. Does Alaska regress to coal power plants, or does the state invest in conservation, energy efficiency, renewable energy, and natural gas? Fortunately, the Mat-Su Borough passed an ordinance to regulate power plants, which will provide much needed oversight of utility decision-making in this area (see Matanuska-Susitna Borough News Release; KTUU 8/28/07). Alaska Petitioned on Ocean Acidification. Citing the Clean Water Act, the Center for Biological Diversity has requested that Alaska, as well as Washington, Oregon and Hawaii, list the Pacific Ocean as impaired because of carbon dioxide enhanced ocean acidification (Associated Press 8/17/07). The petition states: "Carbon dioxide is degrading water quality and harming marine ecosystems" noting that approximately 50% of all carbon dioxide produced by humans has dissolved into the ocean, forming the chemical carbonic acid. To see the entire excellent petition, click here. Alaska in the News Among numerous August news stories and commentaries about Alaska and the Arctic not referenced above, we especially recommend the following: A group of prominent scientists and evangelical Christians toured Alaska to observe, first-hand the impacts of global warming. At their press conference, a Harvard professor noted: "The science (of human-induced global warming) is unequivocal, it's unassailable, it's without any significant challenge." (Anchorage Daily News 8/29/07). Leith Anderson, president of the National Association of Evangelicals noted that according to the Bible, Christians should protect God's creation. Nobel laureate Eric Chivian stated, "Both scientists and Evangelicals see life on earth as sacred and share the same deep sense of responsibility about protecting it." Once again, seeing global warming in Alaska made converts of skeptics. Bishop Harry Jackson, who referred to himself as the closest thing to a global warming skeptic before the trip, was especially moved by their visit to Shishmaref, where they observed the impacts that global warming is having on the Inupiat residents of this eroding community. "That perspective you don't get on the East Coast…that this is more than just some philosophical discussion that a bunch of scientists are having…" (Associated Press 8/29/07). Alaska, with an emphasis on Wrangell St. Elias National Park, is featured in Backpacker Magazine's article on global warming entitled "Going to Extremes" (9/07). Key National News National Legislative and Legal Highlights Although August is normally a quiet month in Congress and the courts, there were several important developments: Senators Lieberman and Warner Release Global Warming Legislative Proposal. Representing the latest bipartisan effort to substantially reduce greenhouse gas emissions, Senators Lieberman and Warner unveiled a discussion draft of " America's Climate Security Act" (Lieberman's Release 8/2/07; to see the actual Discussion Draft, click here). The legislation would reduce emission by 70% below current levels by 2050, while covering 80% of the emitters of greenhouse gases and including a Carbon Market Efficiency Board that can invoke certain remedies. House Energy Bill Includes Renewable Portfolio Standard. Before leaving for their August recess, the House passed a 786-page energy bill that will require investor owned utilities to produce 15% of their electricity from renewable sources. Repealing approximately $16 billion in tax breaks for the oil and gas industry, the bill directs money to research, increased efficiency measures, job training, and renewable energy production. The bill also sets new standards for energy efficiency in appliances and government buildings but does not increase fuel efficiency standards for cars and light trucks. Under the bill, 100-watt incandescent light bulbs could not be sold after 2012 (New York Times 8/5/07). Court Rebukes Bush Administration for Failure to Issue Reports. The Global Change Research Act, which was signed by President George H.W. Bush in 1990, requires the periodic publication of two important climate change reports: the National Global Change Research Plan and the National Assessment report on global warming (Environment News Service 8/23/07). Despite clear timing requirements in the legislation, the current Bush Administration has failed to issue these reports. The federal district court concluded that the Administration is "wrong" and ordered the publication of the reports next year (ABC News 8/21/07). The Center for Biological Diversity had a lead role in the lawsuit. Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Highlights There were numerous developments in the renewable energy and energy efficiency area this month that deserve highlighting, including: Outstanding Energy Efficiency Proposal Submitted. Duke Energy has offered an excellent energy efficiency approach to the North Carolina Utilities Commission. Duke seeks to actively manage energy efficiency and earn a rate of return on their energy efficiency investments (Duke's Summary Document: http://www.dukeenergy.com/docs/External_Stakeholder_Presentation_QA_FINAL.doc). They would provide various programs, including: residential energy assessments; incentives to install energy efficient light bulbs and other systems; energy efficiency education programs for schools; and power management. If successful, these energy efficiency measures would result in retiring up to 800 megawatts of older, less-efficient coal units. The CEO of Duke stated that energy efficiency is "one of the most promising developments of the 21 st century" (Statement by Jim Rogers). He has also observed that "energy efficiency should be our first choice in meeting our growing demand for electricity, as well as in solving the climate challenge" (as quoted in an outstanding Thomas Friedman column 8/22/07). Geothermal Leasing Raises Almost $20 Million. The federal Bureau of Land Management (BLM) held its second competitive geothermal lease sale, netting almost $20 million (BLM Release 8/14/07). Authorized by the Energy Policy Act of 2005, the sale involved public lands in California and Nevada, and represented the first sale in California in 15 years. One area was leased for $14,000 per acre. (Note: by comparison, the average oil and gas lease price on Alaska's North Slope has been $50/acre, click here.) The prior competitive sale sold leases in Idaho and Utah and brought in $9.4 million. Notably, 75% of the lease revenues are distributed to the state and county; only 25% go to the federal government. Approximately 90% of geothermal resources are on federal lands. Very, Very Efficient Cars. How does 1,902.7 miles per gallon sound? A team from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo won the Shell Eco-Marathon by designing and driving a car that actually achieved 1,902.7 mpg (AutoblogGreen 8/07). The car looks really cool, too. Two other entries realized over 1,500 mpg. Clean Energy Sector Jobs are Booming and So are Stocks. Growing three times faster than other major industries, jobs in the clean energy sector are booming in Massachusetts. The field includes high-efficiency energy technology, renewable energy and conservation (Boston Globe 8/9/07). Also, many renewable energy stocks have been hot too (Washington Post 8/26/07). For instance, Vestas Wind Systems shares have doubled in the last year. Wave Energy. For an excellent article on wave energy developments, click here. More Companies Turn to Energy Efficiency. In increasing numbers, companies are improving their bottom line by implementing energy efficiency measures. In a recent article in the Wall Street Journal, the following example was cited: Europe's biggest semiconductor maker, STMicroelectronis, has saved a net $1 billion through energy efficiency from 1994 to 2006 (Mongabay.com 8/27/07). In a related development, a UN report about climate investments concluded that energy efficiency provides the best opportunities to reduce greenhouse gases in the short run (Reuters 8/28/07). Important State and Regional Developments There were several exciting advances at the regional and state levels this month: Western Regional Climate Agreement Achieved. Six western governors and two Canadian provincial leaders signed the Western Climate Initiative, agreeing to reduce greenhouse gas emission by 15% below 2005 levels by 2020 (Los Angeles Times 8/23/07). The agreement established a carbon-trading system. The signatories are: Utah, California, Arizona, New Mexico, Oregon, Washington, British Columbia and Manitoba. Observers include: Colorado, Kansas, Nevada, Wyoming, Ontario, Quebec and Sonora, Mexico. (Note: Alaska has not yet agreed to be an observer or signatory; but we hope that Governor Palin and Commissioner Hartig will agree to do so soon.) Oregon Passes Strong Emissions Reduction Legislation. Oregon Governor Ted Kolongoski signed into law legislation that directs the state to reduce greenhouse gas emissions 75% below 1990 levels by 2050, noting "global warming is an issue that impacts all of us and requires immediate attention" (Associated Press 8/7/07). In Brief – Other National News of Note Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Issues Policy on Global Warming. CDC has issued a policy on Climate Change and Public Health, observing "there is a pressing need to prepare for potential health risks (from climate change)" and that "the public health effects of climate change remain largely unaddressed" (CDC Policy). The Policy lists potential health impacts that "are supported by considerable evidence", including: heat stress; drowning; vector-,food-, and water borne diseases; food and water shortages; malnutrition; mass population movement; international conflict; respiratory disease exacerbations; and mental health issues. The role of the CDC will encompass communicating "the health-related aspects of climate change, including risks and ways to reduce them, to the public, decision makers, and healthcare providers." Conifers Death Rate Nearly Double. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) has found that conifer trees in the Sierra Nevada are dying at nearly twice the rate as twenty years ago, due to hotter temperatures and lower precipitation. A USGS ecologist said that the significant sensitivity of these trees to changes in climate "was kind of a shock" (Associated Press 8/7/07). Increased deaths occurred in all forest types: ponderosa pine-mixed conifer, white fir-mixed conifer, red fir, Jeffrey pine and subalpine. NASA Calculation Error Insignificant Globally. Unfortunately, NASA incorrectly adjusted some temperature data starting in 2000. These adjustments do not alter the global temperature trends, since the adjustments only amount to about a thousandth of a degree Celsius worldwide (Timesonline 8/16/07). Bush Calls Climate Conference. On September 27 and 28, President Bush will host the world's 15 major greenhouse gas emitters to discuss setting long-term emission reductions goals. This meeting will occur three days before an important United Nations session on global warming involving 100 government leaders (Financial Times 8/4/07). Montana Imposes Fishing Closures Because of Climate Change. For more than a month, Montana has closed some of its famous trout waters to fishing for most of the day because of record-breaking heat, a lengthy drought, and forest fires (Timesargus.com 8/19/07). Key International News Record-breaking Extreme Weather in 2007 The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has cited numerous instances of record-breaking extreme weather so far in 2007, a precursor of more global warming enhanced weather variability in the future (Reuters 8/7/07) (Washington Post 8/8/07). The WMO report notes that "climate change projections indicate it to be very likely that hot extremes, heat waves and heavy precipitation events will continue to become more frequent." In the months of January and April, land surface temperatures were the warmest since records started in 1880. Other extremes included: dramatic heat waves in southeastern Europe and Russia, and serious monsoon floods and heavy rains in South Asia, northern Europe, China, Sudan, Mozambique and Uruguay. Massive 10 to 12 feet waves flooded over 60 islands in the Maldives and the Arabian Sea had its first cyclone, effecting Oman and Iran. Notably, the leader of China's Meteorological Administration's Department of Forecasting Services and Disaster Mitigation blamed global warming for China's current weather extremes, especially extensive flooding, drought, and heat (Reuters 8/1/07). Specifically, he stated: "It should be said that one of the reasons for the weather extremes this year has been unusual atmospheric circulation brought about by global warming." China has created a fund of $925 million to spend on energy-saving projects (Reuters 8/27/07). In a different study, scientists have determined that European heat waves have doubled in length in the last century and the frequency of extremely hot days has nearly almost tripled (American Geophysical Union 8/3/07). "These results add more evidence to the belief among climate scientists that western Europe will experience some of the highest environmental and social impacts of climate change and continue to experience devastating hot summers like the summer of 2003 more frequently in the future." Global Warming and Forests On the forest front, there were many interesting developments this month. According to a study published in the Journal of Climate, catastrophic forest fire outbreaks in Russia are occurring more frequently due to global warming (Innovations Report 8/1/07). Last century, fires in a typical forest occurred every 100 years. Now fires occur approximately every 65 year. Annual temperatures in Siberia have increased 2 °C. Scientists studying trees in Panama and Malaysia found that global warming has adversely affected tree growth. Up to 71% of the species in Panama and 95% of the species in Malaysia showed a decrease in growth rates (Ecology Letters 2007). Growth declines were statistically correlated with climate change. "Changes in growth were significantly associated with regional climate change: at both sites growth was negatively correlated with annual mean daily temperatures." In other words, the warmer the temperature, the slower the growth. Pakistan is also experiencing a decline in forest covered areas due to global warming (thenews.com). European forest fires are raging this summer, especially in Greece, Bulgaria, Spain and Portugal, and are extracting a substantial toll in lives and habitat (Reuters 8/27/07). In a different study, scientists have concluded that because protected forests are at risk of being omitted from the emerging carbon market, "high forest cover with low rates of deforestation" nations could become the most vulnerable targets for deforestation (EurekaAlert 8/13/07). In other words, "the minute that you exclude those countries, their forests lose economic value in the global carbon market, leaving governments with little reason to protect them," notes a study co-author. To protect these areas, protocols need to include compensation for intact standing forests. In Brief – Other International News of Note Conservation Response Helps Species. As global warming continues to threaten species throughout the world, a study published in Science demonstrates that improving habitat protection helps birds recover (ScienceNOW 8/9/07). After enacting a Birds Directive in 1979, the European Union listed 181 species and required countries to improve habitats. The listed birds are doing much better; and there is a strong correlation between the amount of land each country protected and the success of the birds. Ten Year Climate Model Released. Factoring in global warming together with natural climatic variations like ocean currents, a team of British scientists has concluded that the global average temperature will be 0.3 °C warmer in 2014 than in 2004, but that the influence of natural variations will likely dampen the effects of emissions between now and 2009 (BBC 8/9/07). As one of the climate scientists explained, "On a 10-year timescale, both natural internal variability and the global warming signal (human induced climate change) are important; whereas looking out to 2100, only the global warming signal will dominate." After 2009, at least half of the years are projected to be warmer than the hottest year currently on record (USA Today 8/9/07). Concerns about Impacts from "Growing" Biofuel Increase. It is becoming increasingly evident that the rush to produce ethanol and biodiesel has environmental downsides. This month there were articles which revealed: that orangutans in Borneo are facing unprecedented threats as jungles are being replaced by palm oil plantations (Telegraph 8/14/07); over a 30 year period, acre for acre, the forest can absorb up to nine times more carbon dioxide than the production of biofuels could avoid (BBC 8/17/07). A Carbon Neutral Banana. Working with Costa Rica, Dole Food has committed to producing carbon neutral bananas and pineapples from that country (Environmental-Finance 8/16/07). Costa Rica has pledged to become a carbon neutral country by 2021. Ontario Canada to Phase Out Coal. Even though Ontario is Canada's biggest energy user, it intends to close its last coal-fired power plant in 2014 and completely phase out coal (Reuters 8/10/07). Wolfowitz and Bush Administration Thwarted World Bank on Climate Change. Repeatedly the Bush administration stopped efforts by the World Bank to incorporate global warming into its investment decisions (Independent 8/14/07). Wolfowitz even personally intervened and ordered changes to a report to divert the focus from global warming. Tropical Rainfall Has, In Fact, Increased Because of Global Warming. The scientific prediction that global warming would increase rainfall in the tropics has proven to be true. There has been an increase in tropical rainfall of 5%. NASA concluded that "A warming climate is the most plausible cause of this observed trend in tropical rainfall" (LiveScience 8/28/07). Upcoming Events and Other Announcements September 8 What: Household Electronics Recycling Where: Mears Middle School, 2700 W. 100th Ave When: 10am More Info: Contact Green Star at 278-7827 or info@greenstarinc.org September 13 What: Marine Access at the Top of the World is the topic of the lecture by Lawson Brigham, chair of the Arctic Council's Arctic Marine Shipping Assessment Where: UA Museum of the North When: 7 to 8pm More Info: Arctic sea ice is undergoing an extraordinary transformation that will likely increase marine transport and access to resources in the North. Brigham will talk about how Arctic nations are responding to these changes and what the future holds for marine access in the Arctic. Free admission. For a complete list of museum events and exhibits, see the museum's calendar online at http://www.uaf.edu/museum/events September 13-16 What: Visioning and Implementation for a Sustainable Community Where: Homer, AK More Info: The mission of the event is to address reasonable solutions to reducing our carbon foot print, while identifying resources available in our community and state that aid community members, business, non-profits and municipality in in this process, while addressing economic development. September 26 What: Alaska Climate Impact Assessment Commission Where: Barrow, AK When: 9am - 5pm More Info: The 5th hearing will go from 9:00am to 5:00pm, with invited professional testimony from 9:00am to 3:00pm, and open public testimony from 3:30pm to 5:00pm. Teleconference service will be available throughout the Legislative Information Office system, and for offnet sites, you may dial (888) 295-4546. Please click here to learn more about commission members and previous meetings. September 27 What: Innovations in Wildlife Conservation: Reducing the Impact of Global Warming on America's Wildlife Where: Washington DC More Info: The event will feature a symposium (see upcoming event below) on global warming and wildlife, expert panels and speakers on climate's impact on native wildlife and habitat, visits with key congressmen, and a celebratory event that will include awards highlighting excellence in wildlife conservation. To learn more visit http://www.defenders.org/about_us/innovations/index.php September 27 What: Poster Symposium: "Innovations in Wildlife Conservation: Reducing the Impact of Global Warming on America's Wildlife" Where: Washington DC When: 7:00 - 8:30 pm More Info: Please address all questions to: poster@defenders.org. For more information and to submit an abstract please visit: www.defenders.org/innovations/symposium2007 October 19-21 What: Fourth Annual Bioneers in Alaska Conference: a 3-day event that inspires and unifies Where: Anchorage, AK More Info: (907)373-0909, info@sustainak.org, www.sustainak.org, www.bioneers.org October 28-30 What: Circumpolar Housing Forum: Sustainable Northern Shelter in a World of Diminishing Resources Where: Fairbanks, Alaska When: All Day More Info: The Cold Climate Housing Research Center and the University of Alaska Fairbanks have partnered with other agencies and businesses concerned about the effects of climate change on housing in the circumpolar North to bring about this exciting new conference. Panel topics include: Building Science and Technology in the North, Energy Systems and Infrastructure, Appropriate Sustainable Design of Buildings and Communities, and Integration of Ideas and Development of Future Research. Visit http://www.cchrc.org/forum.html for more info about the Forum, including a schedule and registration information, or call 907-457-3454. November 7-9 What: Behavior, Energy, and Climate Change Conference! The first-ever Behavior, Energy and Climate Change Conference ("BECC") is a national conference focused on understanding the behavior and decision-making of individuals and organizations and on using that knowledge to help accelerate our transition to an energy-efficient and low-carbon economy. Where: Sacramento, California More Info: The conference program and registration details will be announced soon on the conference web site at http://aceee.org/conf/07becc/07beccindex.htm As the Arctic Ice Cap continues to melt, we are all called upon to take action. For the sake of current and future generations, we can and we must address global warming now. With hope and determination, Deborah Deborah L. Williams Alaska Conservation Solutions dlwilliams@gci.net http://www.alaskaconservationsolutions.com/ 907-929-9370 Your Subscription [SUBSCRIPTIONS]