The Word Merchant

The Word Merchant by Stephen Heins explores environmental impacts, energy policies, and the economic dimensions of renewable versus traditional energy sources. It critically examines green energy initiatives, climate change narratives, and the role of fossil fuels, with an emphasis on factual information and questioning mainstream environmentalist perspectives.

Environmental Impacts of Energy Sources Economic Analysis of Energy Policies Debates on Renewable vs. Traditional Energy Critiques of Climate Change Narratives Political and Economic Influences on Energy Environmental Advocacy and Activism Global Energy Security and Infrastructure Ethical and Human Rights Perspectives on Climate

The hottest Substack posts of The Word Merchant

And their main takeaways

Yard Wars

19 implied HN points • 01 May 23
  1. The American lawn is a battleground where debates over mowing, sustainability, and environmental impacts clash.
  2. Homeowners face dilemmas on how to care for their lawns, with issues like mowing frequency, irrigation, fertilization, and biodiversity in consideration.
  3. Legislative actions are being taken to regulate lawn care practices, with some states and cities banning gas-powered mowers and encouraging environmentally friendly approaches.

Court axes Biden move to shrink offshore oil auction

19 implied HN points • 23 Sep 23
  1. A federal court ordered the Biden administration to proceed with an auction for offshore oil and gas without measures to protect endangered whales.
  2. The administration had initially removed 6 million acres from the sale to safeguard the Rice's whale, but the court injunction blocked that move.
  3. Oil and gas industry celebrated the decision, while environmental advocates expressed concerns about the impact on endangered whales.

These are the 20 countries identified as "planet wreckers" for their new oil and gas plans

19 implied HN points • 14 Sep 23
  1. 20 countries responsible for nearly 90% of new oil and gas projects between 2023 and 2050 are termed 'planet wreckers.'
  2. Top oil and gas expanding countries, including the US, are also the leaders in renewable energy efforts.
  3. The Global North countries with the greatest economic means are accountable for 51% of oil and gas expansion by 2050, highlighting the concept of 'climate hypocrites'.

Don Keelan: Do we really need ESG reporting?

19 implied HN points • 16 Apr 23
  1. ESG reporting requires companies to disclose their progress in environmental, social, and governance matters. For example, they must report on greenhouse gas emissions and board diversity.
  2. Businesses spend significant resources on consulting to comply with ESG reporting, which may become mandatory soon. Continuous data collection and verification are essential.
  3. ESG reporting scrutiny is increasing from banks, equity funds, stock exchanges, and regulators. It involves diverse expertise like accountants, engineers, and environmental specialists.

FIRST READING: Net-zero may be the most ill-conceived national project Canada has ever pursued

19 implied HN points • 04 Sep 23
  1. Net-zero project in Canada is extremely ambitious aiming for zero emissions by 2050, but the costs may outweigh the benefits.
  2. Achieving net-zero relies heavily on technologies that currently don't exist at a reasonable scale, making it a challenging goal.
  3. The pursuit of net-zero faces criticism for being absolutist and unlikely to make a significant impact on global emissions without broader participation from other countries.
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Precision farming has led to a paradigm shift for growers that has helped lower input costs, improved soil texture and reduced run-off.

19 implied HN points • 31 May 23
  1. Precision farming techniques have significantly benefited growers by reducing input costs, enhancing soil quality, and minimizing run-off.
  2. It's crucial not to exclude engineers from developing agricultural policies to ensure practical solutions are implemented.
  3. The adoption of radical environmental motions by political parties can have severe consequences on industries like agriculture, impacting farmers and agricultural practices.

American Midwest and Climate Change:

19 implied HN points • 21 Jul 23
  1. The American Midwest is thriving due to modest warming and increased CO2 levels, contrary to climate crisis claims.
  2. Data shows decreasing high temperatures since the Dust Bowl years, longer growing seasons, and beneficial shifts in temperatures and precipitation.
  3. Transitioning the Midwest to 'net zero' energy would be costly and minimally impact the environment, with projected costs outweighing benefits.

Support for my energy, economic development , and environmental news curation, 6.00 a month or $60 a year or simply free.

19 implied HN points • 15 May 23
  1. Stephen Heins is seeking financial support from readers for curating energy, economic development, and environmental news on Substack. He publishes 6-7 articles and reports daily, aiming to contribute to informed discussions on global issues.
  2. He values providing a balanced, apolitical perspective that represents the diverse population of the planet, especially those struggling with economic and energy poverty. His content reflects a sense of responsibility and integrity.
  3. At 78 years old, Stephen Heins describes himself as living his life as a media monk, dedicated to upholding quality content and amplifying the voices of deserving individuals.

DAVID BLACKMON: A Backlash Against Net-Zero Policies Is Finally Beginning To Take Shape

19 implied HN points • 23 Jul 23
  1. There is a rising backlash against net-zero policies in the Western world, demonstrated by recent events like elections in Europe and challenges with meeting climate targets.
  2. Countries like Austria and the UK are struggling to meet their greenhouse gas reduction goals due to the overwhelming costs involved in implementing climate plans.
  3. Public backlash against the expensive green energy subsidies and the resulting higher costs of living is starting to influence public policy decisions, particularly in Europe.

The Bidens: "Stone Cold Crooked" (9) -- When Can We Start Calling It What It Is, Namely Bribery?

19 implied HN points • 20 Sep 23
  1. The Biden family corruption scandal is under intense scrutiny, with an impeachment investigation opening and a scheduled hearing, questioning if Biden's conduct fits the impeachable offense of bribery.
  2. Public discussion is avoiding the term 'bribery' and using euphemisms like 'influence peddling' or 'foreign business dealings,' highlighting a reluctance to address the potential criminal conduct directly.
  3. The facts surrounding Hunter Biden's involvement with Burisma raise strong parallels to the elements of bribery, indicating a clear case that should be addressed as such instead of veiled with other terms.

‘Climate Crisis’ illness?! NBC News: White House to unveil a ‘national dashboard’ for tracking ‘heat-related illnesses nationwide’ due to the ‘growing impacts of the climate crisis’

19 implied HN points • 12 Aug 23
  1. The White House plans to introduce a national dashboard to track heat-related illnesses due to the climate crisis, aiming to provide sufficient medical aid during severe heat waves.
  2. Lawmakers and officials are pressuring the government to address extreme heat issues, pushing for more decisive climate actions and resources to combat the impacts of heat on communities.
  3. There are challenges in responding to heat crises, including limitations in allocating resources like cooling centers, handling night-time heat risks, and deploying teams effectively across multiple states.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT PRESIDENT BIDEN’S METHANE AGENDA BEFORE THE INAUGURAL WHITE HOUSE METHANE SUMMIT

19 implied HN points • 01 Aug 23
  1. The White House is hosting its first methane summit to discuss government responses to methane emissions, but notably, the American oil and natural gas industry is not invited.
  2. The Methane Emissions Response Program (MERP) has faced criticism for introducing a methane fee without expert testimony or economic analysis, and delays in awarding grants to help companies comply with regulations.
  3. The EPA's proposed Super-Emitter Response Program (SERP) allowing activists to police for methane leaks at oil and gas facilities has sparked concerns about credibility, security, and legal issues.

Open Letter to Mayor Michael Bloomberg About Fracking

19 implied HN points • 27 Aug 23
  1. Former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg has taken controversial stands on environmental issues like fracking and fossil fuels.
  2. Bloomberg supported natural gas as an alternative to coal and criticized the ban on hydraulic fracturing in New York state.
  3. Despite his support for responsible fracking, Bloomberg's pro-fracking comments received little media coverage compared to his anti-coal campaigns.

Democrats Threaten Journalists With Prison

19 implied HN points • 03 May 23
  1. Democrats are threatening journalists with prison time for their reporting, causing a backlash on social media.
  2. Recent revelations suggest a conspiracy theory regarding Hunter Biden and preferential treatment by the IRS.
  3. Twitter's verification changes highlight issues of elitism, reminiscent of Dr. Seuss's Sneetches story about prejudice.

Law Society issues landmark guidance on climate change

19 implied HN points • 20 Apr 23
  1. Law firms can decline to represent polluters if their activities hinder efforts towards net zero or contradict the firm's climate change values.
  2. The Law Society advises law practices to consider the impact of their climate stance on staff, particularly essential for young lawyers and students.
  3. The guidance emphasizes the importance for solicitors and law firms to understand climate-related legal risks, avoid greenwashing, and consider climate implications in client instructions.

“The thinking error that makes people susceptible to climate change denial“

19 implied HN points • 04 May 23
  1. Climate change deniers often simplify scientific consensus into extreme categories, like 100% agreement or none at all.
  2. Black-and-white thinking, also known as dichotomous thinking, is a common cognitive error seen in climate change denial arguments.
  3. Fluctuations in weather, like cold snaps, do not disprove long-term climate trends, but can mislead many into denying climate change.

Biden promised to fight ag monopolies. Farmers aren’t satisfied.

19 implied HN points • 26 Sep 23
  1. Small farmers and anti-monopoly groups feel Biden's Agriculture Department isn't doing enough to support smaller farms.
  2. Farmers are concerned about the slow pace of regulatory action under Vilsack's leadership.
  3. The debate around addressing ag monopolies is ongoing, with different groups pushing for more aggressive policies while facing opposition from industry players and lawmakers.

The new age of gullibility

19 implied HN points • 05 Oct 23
  1. Be cautious of falling for old pseudoscience clichĂŠs like Loch Ness Monster and Yeti sightings, as they often lack solid evidence and rely on grainy photographs.
  2. The media's sensationalism and gullibility towards paranormal phenomena can lead to the spread of misinformation and fuel unrealistic beliefs in the public.
  3. Maintaining a critical mindset and questioning extraordinary claims is essential to avoid being misled by unfounded theories and myths presented as facts.

Climate change has made air conditioning a necessity

19 implied HN points • 23 Jul 23
  1. Climate change has increased the necessity for air conditioning, as extreme heat events become more common
  2. Many states, prisons, and public housing lack universal air conditioning, leading to health risks and discomfort for inhabitants
  3. Institutions like schools, nursing homes, and assisted living facilities are not adequately equipped with cooling systems, exposing vulnerable populations to heat-related risks

Fauci, Fear, Balance and the Grid

19 implied HN points • 11 May 23
  1. Dr. Fauci emphasized the importance of considering diverse expert opinions and balancing potential negative consequences with benefits when making decisions.
  2. In both the Covid response and climate change discussions, there is a tendency for fear-based, narrow-focused approaches that overlook other important considerations.
  3. Promoting healthy debates with various perspectives is crucial in developing sound policies, as balance between economics, reliability, and public responsibility is key in any major undertaking.

March 26, 2021 Ms. Donna Wieting Director, Office of Protected Resources National Marine Fisheries Service

19 implied HN points • 13 Aug 23
  1. Concerns were raised regarding flaws in incidental harassment authorizations for marine site characterization surveys needed for offshore wind energy projects.
  2. Advocates emphasize the importance of responsible offshore wind energy development to combat climate change while protecting ocean wildlife and habitats.
  3. There is a call for the National Marine Fisheries Service to strengthen protections for endangered marine species during offshore wind energy activities by implementing specific measures and monitoring strategies.

Meteorologists, Scientists Explain Why There Is ‘No Climate Emergency’

19 implied HN points • 22 Sep 23
  1. Climate science should be less political, focusing on addressing uncertainties and exaggerations in predictions while policies should be more scientific, considering real costs and benefits.
  2. Human activities and resulting greenhouse gases are said to have caused global warming, leading to a call to reduce human-caused CO2, but some scientists question this theory based on various factors like the nature of carbon dioxide cycles.
  3. Climate models are questioned for their accuracy, with critics pointing out flaws in the modeling and noting that climate change predictions have often been inaccurate. Some argue that the push for a 'climate emergency' is driven by political and financial motives rather than scientific evidence.

China Coal: Reuters’ “weird climate logic”

19 implied HN points • 22 Sep 23
  1. Coal power plants are being criticized globally for their contribution to climate change.
  2. China is building a large number of coal-fired power plants, despite international efforts to reduce coal usage.
  3. China's justification for burning massive amounts of coal is to power electric vehicles and reduce crude oil imports.

Doug Sheridan Says

19 implied HN points • 21 Aug 23
  1. Germans are increasingly dissatisfied with their country's functioning, with complaints about fairness, slow economic growth compared to other nations, and challenges in the energy transition.
  2. Germany faces difficulties in transitioning to renewable energy due to factors like lack of investment in grids, turning away from nuclear power, and lack of competitiveness in the manufacturing sector.
  3. Germany's current government is struggling to address the challenges the nation is facing, and the country is being seen as Europe's 'new sickman,' highlighting the need for significant changes and improvements.

Strategic Petroleum Reserve: DOE continues to show no intention of refilling it

19 implied HN points • 15 Jul 23
  1. The Department of Energy (DOE) has shown no interest in refilling the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, despite some small purchases to avoid criticism.
  2. The history of the Strategic Petroleum Reserve illustrates how various administrations have used it, with Democrats often decreasing its levels and Republicans increasing them.
  3. Concerns remain about the lack of interest in refilling the SPR, which is crucial for energy security, especially in times of potential crisis like disruptions in international oil trade.

Biden’s Latest Attack On American Energy Is Costing You Plenty

19 implied HN points • 19 Sep 23
  1. President Biden's policies on American energy are causing significant increases in energy prices, impacting families with an average increase of $2,400 on their annual bills.
  2. Biden's decisions to cancel leases and permits in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge are leading to a decrease in domestic oil production and reserves, forcing the country to rely more on imports.
  3. The higher energy prices under Biden's administration are intended to push families to use less energy, but this strategy risks economic consequences and the ability to handle energy crises.

A Silly Scheme by Green Zealots to Appease the Global Warming Gods?

19 implied HN points • 30 Aug 23
  1. CCS projects, like transporting CO2 for storage, could pose significant risks to the environment and human safety, as seen in the Satartia disaster caused by a CO2 pipeline rupture in Mississippi.
  2. The financial motivation behind CCS is immense, with trillions of dollars to be made by providers and through 'green premiums,' revealing potential ulterior motives beyond addressing global warming concerns.
  3. Opposition and concerns regarding CCS projects are rising due to the risks they pose, such as land disruption, environmental hazards, and potential health impacts, questioning the necessity and safety of such endeavors.

Environmental groups file complaint against France's TotalEnergies over climate impact

19 implied HN points • 03 Oct 23
  1. Environmental groups have filed a complaint against France's TotalEnergies over the impact of oil pipeline development and fossil fuel projects in Uganda.
  2. The complaint includes accusations of failing to fight a disaster, involuntary homicide, unintentional injury to persons, and destruction or damage of property likely to create danger.
  3. TotalEnergies, the company in question, stated that it operates in compliance with standards and regulations, awaiting authorities' requests for necessary responses.

India joins rush to renewables, but its rural solar systems fall off grid

19 implied HN points • 31 Jul 23
  1. India has installed many rural solar systems, but a significant portion of them are not functioning, highlighting the challenge of maintenance for renewable energy infrastructure.
  2. The rush into renewables without sufficient planning for long-term maintenance can lead to unintended consequences, such as wasted resources and abandoned solar systems.
  3. Lack of local maintenance expertise, issues with contractor economics, and insufficient revenue streams for upkeep pose significant challenges in maintaining rural solar systems in India and beyond.

Acceleration Failed Projections

19 implied HN points • 06 Aug 23
  1. The seawall at Liberty Island, protecting the Statue of Liberty, has remained unchanged in position and height since the 19th century, demonstrating the insignificance of sea level rise in the area over the past 130 years.
  2. The photographs comparing the Statue of Liberty and the seawall over long periods serve as a symbol of truth, debunking exaggerated claims of accelerating sea level rise made by climate alarmists and their models.
  3. Despite decades of failed projections of sea level rise acceleration, the photos of the Statue of Liberty and its seawall provide tangible evidence refuting climate alarmist claims and revealing the truth behind the actual sea level rise in the area.

How is widespread use of helicopters to study polar bears defensible in a warming world?

19 implied HN points • 19 May 23
  1. Helicopters are widely used to study polar bears despite the negative impact of fossil fuel consumption.
  2. There is a question about the ethical justification for using helicopters in polar bear research in a world combating climate change.
  3. The issue raises concerns about the contribution of such research to greenhouse gas emissions and the overall impact on the environment.

Europe is beginning to turn against the prophets of climate alarmism

19 implied HN points • 19 May 23
  1. Europe is showing a shift away from climate alarmism with countries like Germany and Sweden making changes to green regulations.
  2. Levels of eco-anxiety among the youth are rising, but there is optimism about the future of the planet and human resilience.
  3. Progress, innovation, and economic growth are seen as essential factors that drive positive outcomes in managing climate-related challenges.

OFFSHORE LEASING PLAN DELAY COMPROMISES ENERGY SECURITY AND CLIMATE GOALS

19 implied HN points • 30 Jul 23
  1. Stalling the offshore leasing plan affects domestic production and energy security, leading to increased reliance on foreign sources with potentially lower environmental standards.
  2. Delays in the five-year leasing plan hinder renewable energy development as well, creating uncertainties and setbacks in offshore wind projects.
  3. The Biden administration's mixed messages on domestic production policies alongside delays in the leasing plan may impact oil supply, prices, and American energy security in the long run.

Expert Prof. Gerd GantefĂśr Calls For More Studies On The Regional Climate Impact By Wind Turbines

19 implied HN points • 01 Jun 23
  1. Expert Prof. Gerd GantefĂśr is urging for more studies on the regional climate impact of wind turbines. He warns about potential consequences of wind farms on local climates.
  2. Wind turbines might lead to less wind, reduced precipitation, and consequently, more drought and warmer temperatures. This could have far-reaching implications on the environment.
  3. There are concerns about the effects of the extensive wind turbine installation in Germany, with studies suggesting altered local climates and potential contributions to regional droughts.

Europe’s Self-Imposed Energy Crisis: Paying Homage to Gaia

19 implied HN points • 14 Aug 23
  1. Europe's green policies have led to economic decline, impacting Germany's economy and energy sector.
  2. Transition to green energies in Europe has resulted in high energy prices and energy poverty for many.
  3. Europe's shift towards environmentalism resembles a cultural shift with religious undertones, impacting policy decisions and societal beliefs.

Bye Bye Paris: Chinese CO2 Emissions are Skyrocketing

19 implied HN points • 10 Jul 23
  1. Chinese CO2 emissions are increasing rapidly, surpassing pre-COVID levels, which may hinder their climate goals.
  2. China is relying more on coal due to factors like severe droughts impacting hydroelectricity output.
  3. Even amidst climate change concerns, coal remains a reliable energy source during extreme weather events like droughts or storms.

Labour In A Spin Over Green Steel Job Losses

19 implied HN points • 16 Sep 23
  1. Labour Party faces challenges with the contradictions in their policies, like shedding jobs in the transition to 'green steel'.
  2. Transitioning to green technology can be costly and less productive, leading to job losses.
  3. Electric Arc Furnaces (EAFs) have the potential to produce high-quality steel but may face challenges due to the availability of high-quality scrap.

Critical Examination of Hurricane Intensification Predictions

19 implied HN points • 01 Oct 23
  1. Improvements are needed in hurricane intensification predictions due to the limitations of current weather models.
  2. Hurricanes intensify by drawing up 'superheated' subsurface waters, with a negative feedback mechanism that naturally limits their intensity.
  3. Climate models have high failure rates in predicting hurricane intensification as they do not consider important factors like barrier layer dynamics, leading to incorrect attributions of intensification to rising CO2 levels.

Hey Look, Solutions to All the World’s Big Problems with the Napkins to Prove It! Now Send Money.

19 implied HN points • 26 Jul 23
  1. Solving big world problems can often seem simple in theory but implementing practical solutions can be complex due to various real-world constraints like budget limitations and human behavior.
  2. Proposed solutions to global issues like transitioning to renewable energy come with massive costs and challenges, such as shortages of essential minerals and historical data showing most major projects go over budget.
  3. It's important to critically analyze and stay realistic about grand promises made by leaders and candidates, especially when it comes to addressing complex issues like climate change and energy transitions.

“Michael Grunwald writes in the NYT, as America rushes to generate more renewable electricity, it has become fashionable to fret that solar and wind farms use too much land.”

19 implied HN points • 08 Jun 23
  1. There is concern about solar and wind farms using too much land, but biofuels actually require much more land for less impact.
  2. Farm-grown fuels like corn ethanol and soy biodiesel are not only inefficient but also contribute to food inflation, hunger, and environmental damage.
  3. Biofuels are less efficient in energy generation compared to solar panels and contribute to increasing greenhouse gas emissions by converting carbon-rich landscapes into farmland, making it harder to meet emissions targets and address global hunger.