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

Our Take: The UK shows why following only the advice of climate scientists isn't a good idea with Doug Sheridan

79 implied HN points • 12 Mar 24
  1. Economic growth is closely tied to rising energy consumption, which leads to wealthier populations.
  2. The UK has not truly reduced its carbon footprint as claimed, due to emissions produced in other countries on its behalf.
  3. There are differing viewpoints on achieving net zero emissions, with some emphasizing the need to stop selling products that contribute to global warming by 2050.

Sierra Club and General Assembly could leave millions powerless and in the dark | COMMENTARY

79 implied HN points • 12 Mar 24
  1. There are concerns that premature closure of power plants could lead to power shortages, affecting millions. Legislation is being introduced to address these potential issues.
  2. Maryland faces challenges in transitioning to clean energy while ensuring reliable power supply. The state's energy goals may risk potential grid stability issues.
  3. The partnership between Talen Energy and Sierra Club to close power plants raises questions about the reliability of energy sources and potential impacts on society and the economy.

NATURAL GAS IS, ONCE AGAIN, SPEARHEADING EMISSION REDUCTIONS ACROSS THE U.S. POWER SECTOR

139 implied HN points • 24 Dec 23
  1. Natural gas plays a significant role in reducing carbon emissions in the U.S. power sector, surpassing the impact of renewable energy sources.
  2. Compared to coal and other non-carbon fuel sources, natural gas emits substantially less carbon dioxide when used for power generation.
  3. The increased use of natural gas since 2005 has led to significant reductions in carbon emissions, highlighting its importance in the energy transition for a greener future.

Biden Administration Slams Enbridge for Ongoing Trespass on Bad River Reservation But Says Pipeline Treaty With Canada Must Be Honored

59 implied HN points • 12 Apr 24
  1. The Biden Administration criticizes Enbridge for trespassing on the Bad River Reservation but also emphasizes the importance of honoring the pipeline treaty with Canada.
  2. The U.S. Department of Justice recommends increasing the compensation for the Wisconsin tribe due to ongoing trespass by Enbridge and highlights the complexity of balancing tribal rights and international agreements.
  3. The court faces a challenging task of resolving the clash between the tribal treaty from 1854 allowing the tribe to control land use and the U.S.-Canada pipeline transit treaty which ensures uninterrupted hydrocarbon flow.

Biden's trillion dollar climate agenda is blowing up and John Kerry has a lot to answer for

119 implied HN points • 16 Jan 24
  1. The world still needs fossil fuels, despite the efforts by the White House to promote a greener agenda.
  2. Renewable projects like offshore wind farms are being canceled, showing a setback in the push for electric vehicles and sustainable energy.
  3. Biden's trillion-dollar climate agenda faces challenges and criticisms, such as high fees in ESG funds and concerns over the effectiveness of the Inflation Reduction Act.
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Producing iron without carbon and without CO2 - but with salt water No need for coal. Try salt water instead.

99 implied HN points • 11 Feb 24
  1. Producing iron without carbon and CO2 is possible using salt water instead of coal, potentially reducing significant CO2 emissions linked to iron and steel production.
  2. Researchers are working on using a setup similar to a battery to extract sodium from salt water, which can lead to the production of elemental iron with less energy required.
  3. While in the early stages, this process could create a carbon sink and has the potential to produce tens of millions of tons of iron annually without CO2 emissions.

Congress and Courts enable Energy and Climate Fantasy and Tyranny

99 implied HN points • 11 Feb 24
  1. The Supreme Court could end the 'Chevron deference' doctrine, which allows agencies to expand their power, impacting citizens' recourse.
  2. The powers of Congress and the Judiciary have been increasingly overshadowed by the Executive Branch, leading to imbalance.
  3. Ending Chevron deference could curb excessive government agency control, restore balance between branches, and encourage more precise laws by Congress.

A report from Grid Strategies LLC late last year was titled “The Era of Flat Power Demand is Over.”

79 implied HN points • 10 Mar 24
  1. Grid planners have nearly doubled the 5-year load growth forecast due to the power demands of AI, data centers, and crypto mining.
  2. Investment in new manufacturing, industrial, and data center facilities are the main drivers behind the increased electricity demand.
  3. The U.S. electric grid is unprepared for the significant load growth driven by new technologies, leading to concerns about blackouts and increased electricity bills.

CLIMATE PROPAGANDA Burn, Hollywood, Burn Roger Caiazza

79 implied HN points • 10 Mar 24
  1. Irina Slav's article exposes Hollywood's climate change propaganda fueled by money and fame.
  2. The indoctrination now shifts focus from social justice to climate change, with organizations like Good Energy guiding film industry on weaving climate into stories for profit.
  3. Despite attempts at climate propaganda in film, good art and entertainment require storytelling and emotions beyond fear, suggesting propaganda's failure in producing quality entertainment.

Climate Fraud In New Zealand From NOT A LOT OF PEOPLE KNOW THAT By Paul Homewood h/t Graeme Hooke

119 implied HN points • 15 Jan 24
  1. NIWA, New Zealand's National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research, has been accused of deception by the NZ Climate Science Coalition statisticians.
  2. The temperature data for New Zealand has allegedly been manipulated, suggesting a global effort to exaggerate warming trends.
  3. Scientists argue that current New Zealand temperatures are cooler than much of the past 10,000 years, portraying a different climate reality than what has been widely reported.

Rejecting Calls for Carbon Taxes Is Common Sense, by Carla Sands

59 implied HN points • 10 Apr 24
  1. Rejecting carbon taxes is seen as common sense due to the detrimental impact on the economy, by raising energy costs and distorting market forces.
  2. Policy proposals like carbon taxes and tariffs, while presented as bipartisan solutions, can have negative consequences such as burdening American families and businesses.
  3. Proponents argue that carbon tariffs could level the playing field for American workers, but these measures raise costs and expand the bureaucratic state, potentially harming the economy.

Europe’s top rights court to rule on landmark climate change cases A motley crew of Portuguese children, retired Swiss women and a French mayor have filed a trio of case….

59 implied HN points • 09 Apr 24
  1. European Court of Human Rights will rule on climate change cases brought by a diverse group, such as Portuguese children, retired Swiss women, and a French mayor.
  2. Plaintiffs are arguing that governments must do more to combat climate change to protect their human rights, with some aiming to enforce the goals of the 2015 Paris Climate Accords.
  3. Legal battles around climate change are increasing worldwide, with courts starting to hold governments accountable for their actions related to greenhouse gas emissions.

How to Falsify Weather Station Data Kip Hansen

79 implied HN points • 07 Mar 24
  1. Farmers in Colorado falsified weather station data to receive crop insurance payments based on rainfall levels, leading to federal charges and restitution.
  2. Federal crop insurance programs rely on local rainfall data from Automated Surface Observing System stations, making accurate data crucial for fair payments.
  3. The case highlights the vulnerability of government programs to fraud, with the potential to distort climate records and misuse public funds.

Portuguese Gen Z and Swiss boomers await pivotal court rulings on climate change By Persis Love and Alice Hancock

59 implied HN points • 08 Apr 24
  1. The European Court of Human Rights will rule on climate change cases brought by individuals of different ages in Europe, which may impact government efforts to reduce emissions.
  2. One case involves Portuguese Gen Z claiming government inaction on emissions caused harm like extreme heat and wildfires, affecting their rights to life and health.
  3. Another case involves Swiss boomers arguing that Switzerland's climate policies violate their right to life and health due to being at high risk for temperature-related mortality.

The Case for Stronger Self-Regulation by Lawyers William McDonald

59 implied HN points • 08 Apr 24
  1. Scholars argue that lawyers need to take more responsibility in disciplining their peers and self-regulating seriously.
  2. Root Martinez and Juricic highlight the need to increase deterrence of professional sanctions in the legal profession.
  3. They suggest implementing standardized guidelines for sanctions and increasing severity to ensure accountability and public interest.

The Gang of Five of Climate Crisis: Al Gore, Michael Mann, AntĂłnio Guterres, Klaus Schwab, and James Hansen.

99 implied HN points • 05 Feb 24
  1. The Gang of Five of Climate Crisis consists of Al Gore, Michael Mann, AntĂłnio Guterres, Klaus Schwab, and James Hansen.
  2. These individuals are involved in making predictions and forecasts related to climate change, although their accuracy has been questioned.
  3. The Gang of Five's track record in their climate crisis predictions is not as good as expected.

Electric Vehicles – the Nitro Glycerine of the Transportation World?

119 implied HN points • 08 Jan 24
  1. There have been numerous incidents of EV fires, raising concerns about the safety of electric vehicles in the transportation sector.
  2. Reports indicate that EV fires can be more challenging to handle due to factors like high voltage shocks, toxic gases, and re-ignition risks, posing unique challenges compared to traditional gasoline vehicle fires.
  3. While some sources argue that EVs are safer overall, specific incidents like warnings for ferry operators and ship fires highlight the potential dangers and limitations in handling EV fires compared to traditional vehicle fires.

Suing Big Oil Is Becoming a Lucrative Business By Irina Slav

59 implied HN points • 06 Apr 24
  1. Suing Big Oil is on the rise with individuals and groups taking legal action for climate change damages.
  2. Notable cases include a Belgian farmer suing TotalEnergies and Shell's appeal in a Dutch court against a climate ruling.
  3. The concept of 'climate homicide' is being discussed, indicating a growing trend of challenging Big Oil in court for climate-related repercussions.

Global Plant Growth Accelerates Thanks to Higher Carbon Dioxide Levels, New Study Finds By Chris Morrison

99 implied HN points • 03 Feb 24
  1. Global plant growth has accelerated due to higher levels of carbon dioxide, with about 55% of global land experiencing increased vegetation growth.
  2. Studies show that the rise in atmospheric carbon dioxide has led to a persistent increase in global greening since at least 1980.
  3. Higher levels of carbon dioxide have contributed to higher crop yields, with estimates suggesting a 2.4-3.8% annual rise in staple crop production, benefiting global food security.

Thousands of alleged lobbying violations languish at Justice Department

59 implied HN points • 05 Apr 24
  1. Thousands of alleged lobbying violations are unresolved at the Justice Department, hinting at critical oversight gaps in handling a powerful industry
  2. The Lobbying Disclosure Act mandates transparent federal lobbying activities, but a high percentage of cases remain open for years, raising concerns about enforcement effectiveness
  3. Lobbyists failing to comply with reporting requirements face potential penalties, but the Justice Department struggles with backlogs, underscoring challenges in ensuring accountability

How climate change is increasing wildfire risks across Texas

79 implied HN points • 02 Mar 24
  1. A wildfire in north Texas grew rapidly due to strong winds, but blaming climate change for such fires may not be accurate.
  2. Real-world data contradicts the claim that climate change is increasing wildfire risks in Texas, showing fewer hot days and increased precipitation.
  3. Recent satellite data reveals no direct link between wildfire acreage and carbon dioxide levels, undermining the narrative of climate change driving more wildfires.

From Fox News - Biden admin's war on household appliances will cause higher prices, dirtier clothes and dishes, experts warn

79 implied HN points • 02 Mar 24
  1. The Biden administration is implementing energy efficiency regulations for household appliances like washers and dryers to reduce carbon emissions and save on utility bills.
  2. These new rules will lead to significant energy savings over the next 30 years and force less-efficient models of washers and dryers off the market.
  3. While some see these regulations as necessary to combat climate change, critics argue they may increase prices, affect the performance of appliances, and limit consumer choices.

High-priority local actions in Biden’s new plan to slash building GHG emissions The Department of Energy blueprint lays out specific goals to lower U.S. building emissions 90% by 2050

59 implied HN points • 04 Apr 24
  1. The U.S. Department of Energy released a federal blueprint to decarbonize the building sector, aiming to reduce building emissions by 90% by 2050 compared to 2005 levels.
  2. Challenges in building decarbonization include pushback from fossil fuel and building industries, upfront cost concerns, and the vast number of buildings needing attention.
  3. Local governments face hurdles in decarbonizing buildings, such as ensuring affordable housing, collaborating with stakeholders, and tailoring approaches to individual community needs.

European Conservatives: How Has Fossil Fuel Suppression Worked Out For You? April 03, 2024/ Francis Menton

59 implied HN points • 04 Apr 24
  1. In the U.S., there has been resistance among Republicans to fossil fuel suppression, especially in energy-producing states.
  2. European Conservatives made a huge political mistake by fully supporting the Net Zero agenda, leading to rising energy costs and potential party destruction.
  3. The UK and Germany, with their green energy initiatives, have seen significantly increased consumer electricity prices, resulting in political unpopularity for mainstream center-right parties.

How Well-Funded Groups Influence Hundreds Of Outlets To Push ‘Climate Crisis’ In News, Films, More

59 implied HN points • 04 Apr 24
  1. Media outlets across different platforms may share similar messages about climate change, suggesting a coordinated effort.
  2. Organizations like Covering Climate Now influence hundreds of media outlets to integrate 'climate crisis' narratives in their reporting, impacting public perception.
  3. The push for a uniform narrative on climate change in media and entertainment can lead to skepticism among the audience, who may be thirsty for a more balanced message.

Oil giant admits it needs a ‘magic wand’ to keep green pledges ExxonMobil accused of greenwashing over claims that its ‘carbon capture’ project is reducing emissions

59 implied HN points • 04 Apr 24
  1. ExxonMobil needs a 'magic wand' in the form of taxpayer subsidies to fulfill its climate pledges, highlighting the dependency on external financial support.
  2. Oil companies like ExxonMobil often make ambitious but vague claims about future climate plans to divert attention from their continued investments in fossil fuels.
  3. Carbon capture and storage technology, like the Fawley project, advances slowly globally, with challenges in funding, government support, and actual implementation.

No, Media, ‘Catastrophic Climate Tipping Points’ are Nothing to Worry About

139 implied HN points • 10 Dec 23
  1. Claimed 'catastrophic climate tipping points' based on climate model projections, not actual data, are exaggerated
  2. Historical temperature records show warming has exceeded claimed limits with no catastrophic effects
  3. Climate tipping point predictions have a history of not coming true, implying the need for reasonable skepticism

China Funds Big Green Groups While Russia Funds Anti-Fracking Groups ANTI-DRILLING/FOSSIL FUEL | INDUSTRYWIDE ISSUES

119 implied HN points • 04 Jan 24
  1. China and Russia are using proxies like nonprofit groups to attack the United States and its fossil fuel industry.
  2. China's Energy Foundation has funded initiatives to phase out coal use and promote electric vehicles in the U.S., impacting policies like gas stove bans.
  3. Foreign nations like China and Russia are leveraging the environmental movement to influence U.S. energy policies and increase dependency on them.

DOE’s War On Appliances Now Targeting Washers And Dryers With New Regs

79 implied HN points • 01 Mar 24
  1. The Department of Energy has finalized energy efficiency regulations for residential clothes washers and dryers, intending to reduce CO2 emissions and save consumers money on bills.
  2. These regulations are expected to save Americans up to $39 billion on their energy and water bills and reduce about 71 million metric tons of CO2 emissions over the next three decades.
  3. While the push for energy-efficient appliances aims to cut costs and emissions, concerns have been raised about the effectiveness and speed of these newer models compared to older, less efficient ones.

NM oil, gas boom will continue

59 implied HN points • 03 Apr 24
  1. Despite government regulations and hostility, the oil and gas boom in New Mexico continues due to high demand.
  2. Land Commissioner Stephanie Garcia Richard's decision to forgo immediate leasing for future higher rates indicates a belief in the long-term viability of oil and gas.
  3. New Mexico is banking on the oil boom for continued revenue and growth, while some believe diversifying the economy is a smarter move.

High Oil Prices Force the U.S. to Abandon Its Latest Attempt to Refill the SPR By Irina Slav

59 implied HN points • 03 Apr 24
  1. High oil prices led the U.S. Department of Energy to cancel its latest tender for crude oil to refill the strategic petroleum reserve.
  2. Despite planning to refill the reserve by the end of the year, the Department of Energy has paused new purchases due to escalating oil prices.
  3. Criticism from slow response to falling oil prices to large sell-offs from the SPR has surrounded the Biden administration's handling of oil reserves and prices.

The Entire Push To Halt New Natural Gas Exports Traces Back To One Ivy League Prof And His Shaky Study

59 implied HN points • 03 Apr 24
  1. The push to halt new natural gas exports originated from a controversial study by a Cornell University professor, leading to pressure campaigns and policy changes against LNG exports.
  2. The study by Robert Howarth faced criticism for its methodology and conclusions, sparking debates among experts and industry professionals about the accuracy and reliability of the research.
  3. The study's reliance on a 20-year timeframe for emission assessment, selective data interpretation, and the professor's ties to environmental activism has raised concerns about the study's objectivity and impact on policy decisions.

Europe Makes It To the Other Side of Winter With Record Levels of Natural Gas By Julianne Geiger

59 implied HN points • 02 Apr 24
  1. Europe ended winter with record levels of natural gas storage, setting up for a strong position for the next season
  2. Europe's natural gas stores are 58.7% full, a new record compared to previous seasons
  3. Analysts suggest cutting back LNG imports to avoid overfilling storage, highlighting that the current challenge is too much gas rather than a shortage

Fish Species Antis Tried to Use to Block MVP No Longer Endangered

59 implied HN points • 02 Apr 24
  1. The Roanoke logperch, a fish species once used as a reason to block a pipeline project, is no longer endangered, showing successful conservation efforts.
  2. Conservation projects led to the expansion of the Roanoke logperch's habitat, contributing to its recovery and removal from the endangered species list.
  3. Continued monitoring and support are planned for the Roanoke logperch post-delisting to ensure its conservation status remains stable.

New York AG Sues Beef Producer, Charles Rotter

79 implied HN points • 29 Feb 24
  1. New York Attorney General filed a lawsuit against JBS USA, accusing them of misleading the public about their environmental impact, despite plans to increase production and carbon emissions.
  2. Greenwashing lawsuits are becoming more common across sectors like finance, automotive, and bioplastics, emphasizing the importance of truthful environmental claims.
  3. The lesson learned is to avoid pandering to environmentalists as false or misleading claims can lead to legal repercussions and financial losses.

Our Take, With Doug Sheridan

59 implied HN points • 02 Apr 24
  1. EPA's rule mandates that a significant percentage of new urban delivery trucks and long-haul tractor sales must be electric by 2032, which could have predictable harmful impacts.
  2. Transitioning to electric trucks faces challenges like limited range, heavier batteries impacting load capacity, increased vehicle congestion, and higher pollution due to more trucks needed for transport.
  3. The shift to electric trucks will require massive power generation, installation of millions of chargers, major grid upgrades, and substantial costs that will be passed on to customers, impacting the trucking industry and ultimately consumers.

Solar Flares & Climate Phenomena: Astrophysicist Dr. Willie Soon Is Censored After Challenging Climate Change in Tucker Carlson Interview – Ask Dr. Drew

79 implied HN points • 28 Feb 24
  1. Dr. Willie Soon is an astrophysicist and geoscientist known for his expertise on solar phenomena and global climate.
  2. In 2018, Dr. Soon founded the Center for Environmental Research and Earth Sciences (CERES-science.com) to address a broader range of issues.
  3. Dr. Soon's education includes bachelor's and master's degrees in science and a Ph.D. in aerospace engineering from the University of Southern California.

The US Environmental Protection Agency finalized strict pollution standards for heavy-duty vehicles for model years 2027-2032.

59 implied HN points • 02 Apr 24
  1. The US Environmental Protection Agency has set strict pollution standards for heavy-duty vehicles for model years 2027-2032.
  2. The new rules aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from trucks and buses to mitigate environmental impacts and improve public health.
  3. The EPA's regulations cover a wide range of technologies for heavy-duty vehicles, encouraging innovation while considering the economic impact.

Can ‘clean energy’ schemes get any crazier? By Paul Driessen

59 implied HN points • 01 Apr 24
  1. The US government aims to deploy a significant amount of offshore wind energy by 2030 and 2035, but the feasibility and costs of such ambitious clean energy projects are questionable.
  2. Building and maintaining massive floating wind turbines in deep ocean waters poses significant challenges due to extreme weather conditions, unproven technologies, and substantial resource requirements.
  3. The push towards deepwater wind energy schemes raises concerns about the viability of these projects, their potential environmental impacts, and the need for more concrete evidence of their long-term benefits compared to traditional energy sources.

The Green Energy Mess That Nobody Will Admit to

59 implied HN points • 01 Apr 24
  1. The UK's energy production has significantly decreased over the years, leading to increased dependence on imports due to green policies like the Climate Change Act 2008 and 'Net Zero' target adopted in 2019.
  2. Policies focused on green energy have led to higher domestic energy prices, diminished investment in conventional energy sources like oil and gas, and missed opportunities for industry growth and profitability in the UK.
  3. The shift towards green economics has resulted in a regressive disdain for industry, rising prices, and a potential future of rationing electricity due to scarcity created by green energy policies.