The hottest Climate Policy Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top U.S. Politics Topics
The Honest Broker Newsletter β€’ 1442 implied HN points β€’ 11 Jan 25
  1. Understanding policy causality is crucial for making effective decisions, especially in contexts like disaster risk reduction. It's important to know how actions lead to specific outcomes.
  2. Distinguishing between different types of causality, like proximal and distal, helps identify what actions can prevent future disasters. Not all causes can be controlled, but some can be influenced through policy.
  3. Communicating about causality can be tricky because narratives and models may mislead people. It's key to ground discussions in solid evidence to avoid bad policy choices.
The Crucial Years β€’ 1315 implied HN points β€’ 17 Dec 24
  1. The Democrats have finally acknowledged the negative impacts of natural gas and its exports on climate change. This honesty is an important step for addressing environmental issues moving forward.
  2. Past policies favored natural gas as a cleaner alternative to coal, but high methane leak rates from fracking have shown that it's not a perfect solution for the climate crisis.
  3. The shifting energy landscape is pushing for a focus on renewable sources like wind and solar, instead of relying on natural gas exports, which could harm national and global climate efforts.
Nonzero Newsletter β€’ 406 implied HN points β€’ 25 Jul 25
  1. Countries in the West are increasingly worried about security threats, with Germany even planning to build bomb shelters due to fears of a Russian attack.
  2. Teens are using AI as companions, with many saying chatting with AI can feel just as good as talking to real humans.
  3. There is a strong push in the U.S. to boost AI development and reduce regulations, which some believe could lead to significant advancements in technology.
The Climate Brink β€’ 412 implied HN points β€’ 29 Jan 24
  1. Expanding LNG infrastructure may reduce emissions short-term by displacing coal, but it locks in higher emissions in the long run.
  2. U.S. consumers now pay global prices for natural gas due to increased LNG exports, exposing them to international price fluctuations.
  3. Exporting LNG compromises U.S. energy security, as global pricing allows foreign powers to influence prices and threaten economic stability.
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GEM Energy Analytics β€’ 319 implied HN points β€’ 26 Feb 24
  1. Solar energy in Europe has grown a lot in recent years. By the end of 2024, solar power capacity will nearly double, helping to meet electricity needs.
  2. Duck curves are becoming more common, showing that solar energy creates cheaper electricity prices in the afternoon. This trend is seen in countries like Greece, Germany, and Spain.
  3. The impact of solar energy isn't just in Europe; places like Australia are seeing similar effects. As solar use increases, it changes the price dynamics in electricity markets.
The Crucial Years β€’ 1275 implied HN points β€’ 04 Nov 24
  1. Balcony solar panels are a convenient and popular way for apartment dwellers to harness solar energy in Germany. These small solar setups are easy to install and can power small appliances, promoting energy independence.
  2. The U.S. has stricter regulations regarding solar installations, making it difficult for similar plug-and-play systems to thrive. This contrasts with Europe, where regulations are often more relaxed, leading to faster adoption of such technologies.
  3. Balcony solar systems are a part of a larger trend in renewable energy. This small yet meaningful step represents a growing movement toward sustainable living and empowerment in combating climate change.
Chartbook β€’ 1244 implied HN points β€’ 23 Oct 24
  1. The US presidential candidates aren't talking much about climate change, even as extreme weather events keep happening. This shows how climate issues are largely ignored in political debates.
  2. Both Trump and Harris seem to agree on the need for more energy production, but they approach energy policy very differently. This creates a situation where neither candidate is fully addressing climate change solutions.
  3. There’s a growing coalition in the US that supports new energy solutions, from renewable energy to nuclear power. This shows that despite political divides, many people want change in how energy is produced and consumed.
The Honest Broker Newsletter β€’ 1089 implied HN points β€’ 04 Nov 24
  1. A new committee formed by the National Academy of Sciences is seen as biased because it includes members with ties to groups that have an agenda against climate policy. This raises concerns about conflicts of interest.
  2. Some advocates argue that linking climate change to individual weather events is part of a strategy to support climate lawsuits, which might compromise the integrity of scientific research.
  3. There are worries that the push for extreme weather event attribution could replace established scientific frameworks, risking the credibility of major scientific institutions like the IPCC.
The Honest Broker Newsletter β€’ 745 implied HN points β€’ 23 Jan 25
  1. The post provides updates on several important topics like the Social Cost of Carbon and Billion Dollar Disasters. It's a good way to keep up with what's been happening recently.
  2. There are also new updates on climate scenarios and influential figures in climate science, like Michael Mann. This information can help you understand changing perspectives in climate science.
  3. Finally, there's mention of Colorado football which shows a variety of topics being discussed. This keeps the content diverse and engaging for readers.
Klement on Investing β€’ 3 implied HN points β€’ 23 Feb 26
  1. CBAM will have only a small effect on overall GDP and emissions at first, but that hides much larger impacts for specific industries.
  2. High‑carbon exports like cement, steel and chemicals could fall sharply by 2034 if producers don’t decarbonise, because the CBAM exemption quota shrinks and its coverage expands.
  3. Tying EU market access to carbon intensity creates a global incentive to clean up production, pushing decarbonisation beyond Europe rather than just shifting trade to lower‑cost markets.
The Corbett Report β€’ 31 implied HN points β€’ 21 Dec 25
  1. A health awakening swept 2025: major food companies moved to remove synthetic additives, authorities opened reviews of vaccine safety, and the WHO’s credibility and funding declined.
  2. The climate-emergency narrative lost momentum as big banks abandoned Net Zero commitments, prominent voices softened their rhetoric, and COP30 failed to produce meaningful agreements.
  3. Once-taboo topics like questioning the official 9/11 story and criticizing Israel’s actions in Gaza entered mainstream conversation, empowering more people to challenge official narratives and reclaim public discourse.
Odds and Ends of History β€’ 201 implied HN points β€’ 21 Jul 25
  1. The government may be making mistakes with its Planning and Infrastructure Bill, which could impact housing and environmental policies. It's important to pay attention to these changes and their consequences.
  2. Declaring a 'climate emergency' means little if no real actions are taken to address it. It's not just about saying the words; effective measures are required.
  3. A new fund has been created to help with housing in London, emphasizing the need to meet housing targets and the debate around the green belt. Conversations around these issues are crucial for future planning.
THE FREEDOM BLOG β€’ 176 implied HN points β€’ 08 Feb 24
  1. EU farmers are protesting against environmental targets and regulations they find burdensome.
  2. European Commission is making short-term concessions to farmers but may struggle to meet long-term emission reduction goals.
  3. Protests by farmers show that high-visibility tactics can be effective in influencing policy decisions.
The Crucial Years β€’ 1155 implied HN points β€’ 15 Feb 24
  1. The rich individuals or entities may not fully grasp or prioritize the urgency of the environmental crisis, as shown by certain investment decisions.
  2. Some significant steps towards divesting from fossil fuels have been taken, indicating a gradual shift away from reliance on them.
  3. Financial institutions like banks withdrawing from environmental initiatives could hinder progress towards decarbonization and indicate a shift in priorities.
Japan Economy Watch β€’ 279 implied HN points β€’ 29 Jun 23
  1. Japan played a significant role in pioneering solar energy and electric vehicles, contributing to the fight against climate change.
  2. The 2010 Strategic Energy Plan in Japan aimed to increase low-carbon electricity, reduce fossil fuel dependency, and promote renewable energy and nuclear power.
  3. The Fukushima nuclear disaster in Japan led to policy changes, shifts in energy sources, and a new political focus on climate-friendly initiatives.
Chartbook β€’ 386 implied HN points β€’ 11 Dec 24
  1. The BRICS nations are becoming more important in global politics. Their influence is growing as they work together more.
  2. There are discussions about the implications of Trump's deportation plans. Many are analyzing what these plans might mean for society and politics.
  3. Climate change is a big concern, especially with events like the 2026 World Cup on the horizon. Countries are preparing for its impact and strategizing for future challenges.
Chartbook β€’ 371 implied HN points β€’ 17 Dec 24
  1. Companies are hurriedly completing the paperwork to get loans from the Department of Energy for climate initiatives. They want to secure funding before deadlines.
  2. There is a comparison between income distribution in India and China, indicating different economic conditions and social structures in these countries.
  3. The concept of a 'panzootic' is discussed, which refers to widespread disease among animal species, and explores ideas beyond traditional Confucian thought.
Inside-Out, political commentary from Philip Stephens β€’ 235 implied HN points β€’ 26 Jul 23
  1. Europeans should consider copying Joe Biden's climate policy instead of criticizing it
  2. The urgency of addressing global warming requires immediate government intervention and substantial financial support
  3. To prevent a global catastrophe, all nations must invest in low or zero carbon technologies without placing limits on such investments
The Dossier β€’ 311 implied HN points β€’ 09 Jan 25
  1. BlackRock and several major U.S. banks have left the Net-Zero Banking Alliance. This signals a shift away from the previous focus on climate-focused banking practices.
  2. The Net-Zero Banking Alliance aimed to reduce carbon emissions and support climate initiatives. Some believe these goals may have hurt economic growth and innovation.
  3. The victory of President Trump is seen as a factor in the collapse of the ESG banking agenda. This change could allow for more freedom in the American economy from international influences.
The Climate Historian β€’ 19 implied HN points β€’ 02 Jul 24
  1. Denmark has introduced the world's first carbon tax for agricultural emissions to fight climate change. This tax aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from livestock farming and could inspire other countries to take similar action.
  2. Extreme heatwaves are becoming more common and severe around the world due to climate change. Recent heatwaves in places like India and Mexico have resulted in fatalities and power outages.
  3. Microplastics have been found in human tissue, including penises, raising concerns about their impact on health. This highlights the widespread issue of microplastic pollution and its potential effects on the human body.
God's Spies by Thomas Neuburger β€’ 90 implied HN points β€’ 09 Jul 25
  1. Climate change is not just an environmental issue; it's also influenced by social class and power dynamics. The wealthy and powerful often contribute to environmental harm while ignoring the consequences for those less fortunate.
  2. Most people don't have a say in important decisions regarding climate policy. Government and big businesses often make choices that affect everyone, without asking for public opinion.
  3. The effects of climate change disproportionately affect poorer nations and communities. Those who contributed the least to climate change tend to suffer the most from its impacts.
The Crucial Years β€’ 946 implied HN points β€’ 15 Jun 23
  1. Global warming is rapidly increasing sea surface temperatures, with 2023 likely to be the hottest year yet.
  2. Despite the alarming climate situation, the fossil fuel industry is not making significant changes to reduce their impact.
  3. There is a call for urgent action to transition away from fossil fuels and support clean energy initiatives to combat the climate crisis.
Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality β€’ 246 implied HN points β€’ 18 Nov 24
  1. Global warming is not just an environmental issue; it is changing how economies and societies work. The costs of addressing climate change could take away resources needed for future progress.
  2. As the climate shifts, we face serious challenges like unstable weather and changing environments. This affects our infrastructure and could lead to even worse disasters if not addressed quickly.
  3. Handling global warming will likely consume a lot of resources that could have helped us adapt to other economic changes. We need to think about how to support those who suffer as we transition to a more sustainable society.
Volted: Electrify your Life β€’ 98 implied HN points β€’ 12 Dec 23
  1. Installing high-efficiency heat pumps can lead to significant cost savings on heating bills.
  2. Engaging HVAC contractors and providing them with incentives and training is crucial for boosting heat pump adoption.
  3. Streamlining financing options through instant rebates and zero-interest loans can help make heat pumps more accessible to consumers.
eugyppius: a plague chronicle β€’ 235 implied HN points β€’ 30 Oct 24
  1. Some Green leaders in Germany want to reduce industry and even stop new buildings to help the environment. They believe this will improve climate conditions.
  2. The push for a more controlled economy includes ideas like rationing living space and limiting how much people can travel. The goal is to reduce carbon emissions.
  3. These ideas imply big changes, like having no banks and less personal wealth, which could upset many people's daily lives and freedoms.
storyvoyager β€’ 13 implied HN points β€’ 07 Dec 25
  1. There is no separate "nature" β€” humans and the rest of life share one interconnected planet.
  2. Treating nature as an optional accessory makes it seem nonessential, but we depend on planetary ecosystems for our survival.
  3. Nature isn’t just a walk in the forest or a scenic backdrop; it’s the whole complex system that supports life everywhere.
Who is Robert Malone β€’ 18 implied HN points β€’ 12 Nov 25
  1. COP30 is a major UN climate conference happening in Brazil, focused on limiting global temperature rise and promoting green policies. However, many feel these changes could hurt economies and families instead.
  2. There's a growing concern that the UN and other organizations are pushing an agenda that undermines national sovereignty and promotes global control. Critics argue that this could lead to ineffective spending on unproven technologies.
  3. Indigenous participation at COP30 has drawn attention, with many activists involved in protests. Some believe these protests are orchestrated to support the UN’s narrative, raising questions about the authenticity of the movement.
Heterodox STEM β€’ 163 implied HN points β€’ 22 Dec 24
  1. All four experts agreed that stopping nuclear energy development after the Three Mile Island accident was a big mistake. If nuclear power had been embraced earlier, we might have made better progress on reducing carbon emissions.
  2. There's a strong belief that we can still fully commit to nuclear energy now because the technology is safe and effective. The main barriers are complex regulations and legal challenges that make it hard to move forward.
  3. The panel recognized that achieving NetZero carbon emissions soon will be very difficult. It might be time for people with differing views on climate to collaborate and focus on making nuclear energy more widely used.
Doomberg β€’ 151 implied HN points β€’ 18 Dec 24
  1. Coal is a controversial fuel, and many people don't fully understand its value. It's important to look at its role in energy and society.
  2. As we'll explore, coal has had a significant impact on industries and economies. Understanding its importance can change how we see this resource.
  3. The goal is to dive deeper into coal's complexities and recognize its potential benefits alongside its challenges. This perspective can lead to better discussions about energy sources.
Beck of the Pack β€’ 58 implied HN points β€’ 11 Jan 24
  1. The IPCC and certain renowned figures are seen as zealots focused on controlling human thriving instead of reducing CO2
  2. Disillusionment led to questioning established truths in various fields such as pharma, 9/11, and the green agenda
  3. Climate change may be influenced more by natural factors like fluctuations in sunlight and planetary dynamics rather than human actions
The Crucial Years β€’ 647 implied HN points β€’ 08 May 23
  1. Permitting reform is crucial for building renewable energy efficiently and quickly.
  2. Reforming housing zoning laws can help address high home prices and rents.
  3. When advocating for permitting reform, consider implementing a climate test, fairness test, and promoting public ownership of energy projects.
Diane Francis β€’ 519 implied HN points β€’ 22 Nov 21
  1. Electric vehicles are not fully green unless their electricity comes from clean sources. It's important to consider where the power to charge them is generated.
  2. The true environmental impact of electric vehicles depends on the electricity used to recharge them, not just the vehicles themselves.
  3. To make electric vehicles truly eco-friendly, we need to ensure a shift towards renewable energy for electricity production.
Surfing the Future β€’ 39 implied HN points β€’ 13 Feb 24
  1. Bill Weihl advocates for companies to play a stronger role in climate policy.
  2. Weihl uses AI-generated audio to communicate due to ALS, highlighting the importance of sustainability professionals' collective voice.
  3. The LEAD statement calls for companies to leave obstructing trade associations, elevate climate policy, advocate for specific climate policies, and commit to transitioning away from fossil fuels.
Gordian Knot News β€’ 95 implied HN points β€’ 01 Feb 25
  1. Everyone has a personal view on the social cost of CO2, which can vary widely. It's important to recognize that even if you aren't sure about your view, it still exists.
  2. The trade-off between CO2 emissions and energy consumption is crucial for making decisions about energy sources. Finding a balance is more effective than choosing a source and adjusting to its costs later.
  3. To resolve disagreements on energy and CO2 impacts, we could gather opinions on the best balance and use the majority choice to guide our energy planning.
The Honest Broker Newsletter β€’ 274 implied HN points β€’ 16 Feb 24
  1. Setting clear goals is crucial for progress, even if there are debates around the specifics. Policies should focus on addressing the root causes of issues, not just consequences.
  2. Decarbonization of the economy can happen through improving energy efficiency and transitioning to low-carbon energy sources. These are essential to meet atmospheric carbon dioxide targets.
  3. Efforts to reduce carbon emissions should consider the balance between economic growth and environmental impact. Decarbonizing energy supply is crucial for significant progress.
David Friedman’s Substack β€’ 260 implied HN points β€’ 26 Aug 23
  1. When it comes to climate policy, some people view costs as benefits, creating different perspectives on energy use and global warming solutions.
  2. Alternatives like nuclear power, natural gas, and geoengineering can help reduce global warming without reducing energy use, but not all advocates support these options.
  3. Using a crisis like global warming as an excuse for political agendas or personal beliefs is a common pattern across different contexts and political ideologies.