Today's Climate: August 25, 2009

Chinese Legislators Deliberate Climate Change Resolution (Xinhua)

China's top legislature is deliberating a draft resolution on climate change that says China will firmly "maintain the right to development” and developed nations should "support developing countries with funds and technology transfers." It's also looking at specific plans for more renewable energy.

Chamber of Commerce Seeks Trial on Global Warming (LA Times)

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce, trying to ward off emissions regulations, is pushing the EPA to hold a rare public hearing on the scientific evidence for man-made climate change. Chamber officials say it would be "the Scopes monkey trial of the 21st century."

Midwest Democrats Urge Carbon Tariffs (Chicago Tribune)

A group of Midwestern Democrats is pushing for tariffs on products from countries that don't limit greenhouse gas emissions, putting them squarely at odds with a president they normally support.

White House Task Force Crafting Ocean Management Plan (Greenwire)

The Obama administration is crafting an overarching national ocean policy that could change how federal agencies address new projects at sea, from offshore energy development to aquaculture to marine conservation.

South Korea Plans Fuel Cell Subsidies (JoongAng Daily)

South Korea’s government has a new action plan that includes more wind power and subsidies for the purchase and use of hydrogen fuel cells to power and heat homes.

French Minister Sees Carbon Tax in 2010 Budget (Reuters)

France's proposed carbon tax is expected to be included in the 2010 budget but will probably be set below the 32 euros per metric ton level recommended by a special advisory panel, Budget Minister Eric Woerth says.

DOE Awards $27M for CO2 Storage Research (Greentech Media)

The U.S. government announced $27.6 million in funding for projects investigating the feasibility of carbon capture and storage.

TVA Coal Ash Costs Could Exceed $3 Billion (NRDC)

So far, the Tennessee Valley Authority has spent $168 million on the cleanup of its massive coal ash spill in Tennessee last December, and that’s just the tip of the costs.

Aggravation in Minnesota Over Governor's Shift on Climate (ClimateWire)

Minnesota's Republican governor used to make soaring speeches about defusing climate change. Now, with a 2012 presidential bid possibly in mind, he's making jokes, and some environmentalists are wondering if they’re seeing "bait and switch" politics.

Attack Ads Target GOP Opponents of ACES (Politico)

Four independent groups are launching more than $1 million in attack ads today targeting five House Republicans who voted against the climate bill. The ad casts the members as siding with “big oil and energy interests” and against “the jobs we really need.”