Current Event Presentations

Question 1

American Climate Corps

Answer 1

A climate jobs training program funded via budgetary allocations. Current status: More than 42,000 signups.

Question 2

Gulfport Highway Project

Answer 2

Highway expansion project between US highway 49 and interstate 10. Project intersects Turkey Creek and Forest Heights (two black neighborhoods). Possible Environmental Justice concerns?

Question 3

Twin Metals State Land Lease

Answer 3

Proposed exploratory drilling on state review. Pollution concerns. Halt on new leases on federal land. Currently still under review by MN’s DNR.

Question 4

45v Hydrogen Production Tax Credit

Answer 4

Gray hydrogen (GHG) vs. Green Hydrogen (No FF’s). Tax credit aims to incentivize clean hydrogen production. IRS has not made a decision.

Question 5

Trash Containerization In NY

Answer 5

Change the storage of waste in sealed, rodent-proof receptacles. A focus on improving MSW collection and transportation, not disposal. There was a pilot project in Manhattan community board 09.

Question 6

California Climate-Related Disclosure Laws

Answer 6

Scope 3 emissions: Indirect emissions produced through the supply chain. Goal is to expand disclosure into scope 3 emissions, not just scope 1 or 2. Governor signed it into law.

Question 7

Biden Waives Environmental Laws for Border Wall

Answer 7

Biden reports administration will waive 26 federal laws in Texas to allow further border wall construction. Potential stalemate due to divided government.

Question 8

Colorado River Funding

Answer 8

Water shortage in Colorado River and Lake Mead. Compensate AZ farmers to voluntarily cut water usage from Colorado River. Agreements to conserve more water in Lake Mead.

Question 9

Loss and Damage Fund

Answer 9

High-polluting countries provide financial compensation for poorer or developing countries to help them face current and future impacts of climate change. World Bank chose as holder for the funds.