CEB Contributor
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Newsom Approves Data Center Water Use Bills, Just a Year After Vetoing Similar Legislation
November 5, 2026
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources, Water Supplies , Privacy & Information Security
It can take just a year in California for the legislative tide to turn. Last October, Gov. Gavin Newsom
Advocates Say Prop. 45 Would Shrink CEQA’s Tribal Consultation Requirement, Putting Cultural Resources at Risk
October 30, 2026
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources, CEQA & Other Environmental Regulation
Leading up to the Nov. 3 vote, Proposition 45 – the ballot measure that would further streamline and overhaul CEQA – has drawn much attention for how its definitions of “essential projects” will be applied and whether
Federal Government Issues Decision on Colorado River Allocations, While California Points to Ongoing Talks
October 21, 2026
Rich Blaustein
Administrative Law, Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources, Water Supplies , State & Local Government
Without a doubt, 2026 has been a landmark year for the Colorado River system. After years of letting state negotiations lead the way, on Aug. 21, the federal Department of the Interior
CARB To Release New Roadmap for Addressing Air Toxics
October 8, 2026
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources, Water & Air Quality
Since adopting its “Diesel Risk Reduction Plan” in 2000, the California Air Resources Board has had success in reducing diesel particulate matter (PM), a toxic and cancer-causing pollutant. CARB instituted 12 regulations under the plan, resulting in an 85 percent reduction of diesel PM statewide through 2026. CARB has continued the effort with a focus on frontline communities, such as in transportation and port areas, which continue to endure
Environmental Attorney Douglas Carstens on His Big 'Hell's Kitchen' Win and the CEQA Legislative Landscape
October 6, 2026
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources, CEQA & Other Environmental Regulation, Water & Air Quality, Water Supplies
For over 25 years, attorney
Ahead of Trump's Meeting With Xi Jinping, Researchers See Chance for California and China To Work Together on Climate
September 23, 2026
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources, Climate Change
In May, China’s President Xi Jinping hosted U.S. President Donald Trump for a summit in Beijing. While the two leaders discussed trade and security issues, the summit produced no public discussion of climate change, which has usually been a topic on the agenda for high-level official meetings between the U.S. and China. Whether climate change will be discussed at Xi’s
CARB Pushes Deadline for Companies' 2026 GHG Reporting, Hints at Changes to Future Rule
September 9, 2026
Rich Blaustein
Administrative Law, Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
This summer, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) offered revised deadlines and widened the discussion for a new regulation implementing California’s signature corporate greenhouse gas (GHG) reporting law, SB 253, or the Climate Corporate Data Accountability Act, which Gov. Gavin Newsom approved in 2023. At a July 21 workshop, CARB announced its decision to move the reporting deadline for the initial 2026 regulation from Aug. 10, 2026 to Nov. 10, 2026.
New Landmark PPIC Report Provides Timely Review of California Tribes' Water Rights
September 8, 2026
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources, Water Supplies
California’s Native tribes have a vital connection to the waters about their lands, underscored recently by the Ninth Circuit’s June 17 decision in
Recent Ninth, Second Circuit Decisions Uphold Local Gas Appliance Ordinances
August 27, 2026
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources, State & Local Government
In his second term, President Donald Trump’s administration has challenged California’s clean energy and emissions reduction programs at all levels: in the courts, in
Fourth District Halts Salton Sea Lithium Mining Project, Citing Confusion Over EIR's Water Supply Time Frame
August 13, 2026
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
Less than a month after July 16
CEQA Was a Sticking Point During Oral Arguments in Appeal Challenging 'Hell's Kitchen' Lithium Mining Project
August 5, 2026
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources, CEQA & Other Environmental Regulation, Water Supplies , Alternative Energy Sources
California has big ambitions for developing the Salton Sea area for its “Lithium Valley” project, a large-scale hub for combined geothermal energy generation and lithium mining. The California Energy Commission has estimated that the Imperial County project could provide 375 million batteries for electric vehicles and economically develop an area with a
Researchers Present on California Water Initiatives at International Conference in Vienna
July 27, 2026
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources, Water Supplies
As in prior years, California’s environmental concerns were the focus of many presentations during the 2026 European Geophysical Union (EGU) Assembly, the five-day May gathering held in Vienna. California presenters focusing on wildfire, climate science and transportation emissions continued their dialogue with experts in other parts of the world facing similar threats and planning challenges.
California Officials Celebrate SCOTUS Decision Upholding Birthright Citizenship, But Say the Fight Isn't Over
July 21, 2026
Rich Blaustein
Constitutional Law, Immigration Law
On the last day of June at the end of its 2025-26 term, the U.S. Supreme Court issued its highly anticipated decision in
New Reports from CARB, Coastal Commission Provide Guidance on 'Nature-Based Solutions' for Land Use and Climate Impacts
July 15, 2026
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources, Water & Air Quality, Coastal Zone
As California contends with the Trump administration’s targeting of state initiatives to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions – such as the U.S. Department of Justice’s recent
CARB Adopts New Regulation for California's Cap-and-Invest Program, Avoids Extra CEQA Review
June 25, 2026
Rich Blaustein
Administrative Law, Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
At the end of May, the Board of the California Air Resources Board (CARB) held a highly anticipated two-day public meeting to discuss and ultimately vote on a new regulation for CARB’s signature Cap-and-Invest program, the emissions trading program that covers 80 percent of California’s greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs). CARB is charged with developing regulations for Cap-and-Invest under 2006’s AB 32, the Global Solutions Act.
Record Low Snowpack Measurements Point to a Tricky Year for California Water Managers
June 10, 2026
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources, State & Local Government
This year’s “snow drought” in the California mountains, after a historically hot and dry spring, means that farmers and local and regional jurisdictions will need to spend the rest of 2026 making careful water management decisions.
CARB Board Faces Challenge of How to Backfill Emissions Reductions After Revoked California Waivers
May 22, 2026
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
The March board meeting of the California Air Resources Board (CARB) lacked the drama of the February hearing when public commenters
Proposed Fracking Project Off Ventura's Coast Is Latest Salvo in Federal Government's Offshore Drilling Push in California
May 12, 2026
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
After announcing plans earlier this year to resume offshore drilling off California’s coast, the Trump administration has released an environmental impact statement for a proposed fracking project off the coast of Ventura. The project faces stiff opposition from California state officials, and is currently under review with the Coastal Commission for consistency with the state’s coastal zone management plan.
State Task Force Releases Recommendations To Make Land Access More Equitable for California's Farmers
May 6, 2026
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
After four years of work, a California task force has released a series of recommendations on how the state can improve land equity in agriculture, including through new approaches to conservation easements and a “Tenant Bill of Rights” for farmers who rent their land.
A 'Crucial Safeguard' of Individual Liberty: Berkeley Law's Amanda Tyler on the History – and Contemporary Relevance – of Habeas Corpus
April 28, 2026
Rich Blaustein
Constitutional Law
Motions of habeas corpus are a fundamental means – and often the ultimate backstop – of challenging detainments, arrests, convictions and various legally restrictive actions. Habeas Corpus – Latin for “you have the body”, and also known as “The Great Writ” – is a cornerstone of the Anglo-American legal tradition. The common law right of habeas corpus has roots in the Magna Carta, and the 1679 British Habeas Corpus Act refined habeas corpus to be an explicit check on the sovereign executive’s extra-juridical actions.
'It Takes Many Individuals To Succeed': UCLA Law Professor Ann Carlson on How Los Angeles Beat Its Smog Problem
April 22, 2026
Rich Blaustein
Administrative Law, Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources, Water & Air Quality
In the late 1950s, the California Institute of Technology biochemist
California Updates Signature Environmental Impact Screening Tool Used in CEQA Litigation
April 20, 2026
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources, CEQA & Other Environmental Regulation, Water & Air Quality
As the Trump administration has canceled federal environmental justice programs, California has stepped up its work in this area. Recently, California released its draft for the updated
California Urges Supreme Court To Strike Down Trump's Executive Order on Birthright Citizenship
April 7, 2026
Rich Blaustein
Constitutional Law, Immigration Law
With immigrants making up
CARB's Greenhouse Gas Emissions Disclosure Rule Includes Controversial Exemption for the Insurance Sector
March 25, 2026
Rich Blaustein
Business Transactions, Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources, Insurance Law
At its first public meeting of the year on Feb. 26, leaders of the California Air Resources Board (CARB) adopted a long-awaited rule for implementing
Federal Plans to Restore Offshore Drilling Off California's Coast Could Lead to a Legal Showdown
March 18, 2026
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
The Trump administration is ramping up its efforts to restore offshore drilling operations off the coast of California, sparking local pushback and teeing up a potential legal standoff with state officials and the California Coastal Commission.
Trump Administration Goes After Two California Cities' Natural Gas Infrastructure Bans
March 5, 2026
Rich Blaustein
Construction , Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources, State & Local Government
In 2025, California’s decarbonization effort was a standout target for the Trump administration’s efforts to roll back measure to mitigate climate change. The federal government rescinded waivers for California mobile emissions regulations,
Here's Where California Stands on Clean Truck Adoption So Far in 2026, After Last Year's Federal Setbacks
February 25, 2026
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
California’s ambitious policy to increase uptake of zero-emissions trucks took serious hits last year. Last June, President Donald Trump signed into law congressional resolutions rescinding Biden-era EPA waivers that would have allowed California to implement its Advanced Clean Trucks (ACT) and the Heavy-Duty Low NOx Omnibus regulations. Months before that, in expectation of the Trump administration’s rejection, California withdrew a waiver request for a regulation that would have set benchmarks for truck fleets to transition to zero emissions vehicles.
Longtime UC Davis Law Professor Richard Frank on the Unique Climate and Environmental Law Challenges Facing California
February 18, 2026
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
Recently retired from teaching full-time at UC Davis School of Law, law professor and attorney
After EPA Revokes 2009 Endangerment Finding for Greenhouse Gas Emissions, California Vows to Sue
February 17, 2026
Rich Blaustein
Administrative Law, Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
As most observers expected, the Trump administration’s Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced on Feb. 12 that it would reverse the agency’s 2009 endangerment finding for greenhouse gases from motor vehicles, effectively ending the federal government’s authority to regulate those emissions.
American Geophysical Union Conference Highlights Air Pollution From LA Fires, Central Valley Water Rights
January 28, 2026
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
Since the year began with the devastating Los Angeles-area wildfires, climate impacts were an intense focus for California throughout 2025. This was reflected at December’s annual gathering of the American Geophysical Union (AGU) in New Orleans. At the meeting, diverse presentations focused on California issues like sea level rise, extreme heat, pollution health concerns, wildfires, agriculture water management and other climate-related stresses occurring in the Golden State.
With the U.S. Pulling Out of Global Climate Agreements, California Filled the Void at COP30
January 21, 2026
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
Assessing the Thirtieth Conference of the Parties (COP30) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in Belem, Brazil this past November is a bit of a balancing act.
California Officials, Experts Consider Link Between Science and Democracy Amid Federal Funding Cuts
January 14, 2026
Rich Blaustein
Administrative Law, Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
The Trump administration’s
The Trump Administration Slashed Support for Offshore Wind Projects in 2025, But California Pressed Ahead
December 30, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
Having been jolted by the Trump administration’s abrupt withdrawal of federal support for offshore wind, California has made clear that it will continue advancing its ambitious program to develop this emerging renewable energy sector. Hundreds of millions of dollars for California offshore wind projects allocated by the Biden administration have now been revoked. But over the past year, California state offices have made major grants for California offshore port and manufacturing development to keep the process going.
CARB Gets EPA’s Approval for First Step of Federal Air Quality Conformity Challenge
December 29, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Administrative Law, Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
The California Air Resources Board (CARB) recently found success with its first step in handling the pressing challenge of conforming to Clean Air Act (CAA) air quality standards as determined by the federal EPA. By not conforming to CAA standards, the state could lose billions of dollars in federal transportation funds. The prospect of not receiving a favorable conformity determination arose after the federal government’s rescission this summer of prior waivers for California clean vehicles emissions regulations, which the state had planned to use to meet the federal standards.
CARB Approves New Landfill Methane Regulation Effective January 2027
December 15, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
In November, California Gov. Gavin Newsom traveled to Brazil to attend side meetings around the 30th Conference of the Parties (COP) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). Belém, the Brazilian city that is a gateway for the Amazon River network as it heads toward the Atlantic Ocean, hosted the COP.
Ironically, the Trump Administration's Rollback of California's Emissions Waivers Could Put the State Out of Conformity With Federal Air Quality Standards
December 4, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
Shortly after the board of the California Air Resources Board held its Oct. 23 meeting, it hosted a joint meeting with two other state agencies, the California Transportation Commission and the California Department of Housing and Community Development, to examine an ironic point: with California vehicle emissions regulations undercut by the federal government’s rescinding of the state’s Clean Air Act waivers, California might be deemed not in conformity with federal air regulations and the state implementation plan it submitted to the Environmental Protection Agency. That would put billions of dollars of funding for state transportation projects at risk.
CARB Board's October Meeting Focuses on Air Quality Standards, ZEV Commitment, and Methane Detection
November 18, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
The California Air Resources Board ushered in a new chapter on Oct. 23 when newly installed Board Chair
Attorney, Law Professor and Author Chris Micheli on His New Book About California State Government
November 4, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Constitutional Law, State & Local Government
2025 has been an eventful year for California legislation and policy, involving a mix of sources of authority under state law. For example, Gov. Gavin Newsom’s call for a temporary redistricting of California’s congressional delegation, embodied in this year’s vote on
AB 93 Was Vetoed, But Assemblymember Diane Papan Says Legislative Work on Data Centers' Water Consumption Will Continue
October 28, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources, Privacy & Information Security
Amid growing awareness that data centers’ water consumption will significantly increase as the AI sector expands, California Assemblymember Diane Papan put forward
CARB Affirms Research Program, Modifies Advanced Clean Fleets Rules at Latest Board Meeting
October 17, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
For the last quarter of 2025, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) has a lot on its plate. Sometime in the fall, the agency’s communications office informs ClimateBrief, there will be a CARB workshop on new regulations ensuing from California’s reauthorization of Cap-and-Trade, now renamed Cap-and-Invest, via SB 1207, extending California’s signature greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions trading program to 2045. There will also be presentations at next week’s CARB Board
FTC Antitrust Investigation of California’s Clean Truck Effort Is Latest Federal Blow to State Climate Policy
October 15, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Administrative Law, Business Transactions, Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
The Trump administration’s latest effort to limit California’s climate policies has taken a new tactic: antitrust enforcement. In August, the Federal Trade Commission announced an investigation of one of the state’s efforts to advance clean truck adoption, saying it raised “serious antitrust concerns.” Although the FTC has since closed the investigation, experts say the action could have a chilling effect on the emergent zero-emissions truck market.
Before Reconstituting in March, CARB's Board Meets With Environmental Justice Advisory Committee
October 2, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
For the third time since its new charter in 2023, the California Air Resources Board’s Environmental Justice Advisory Committee (EJAC) held a joint meeting with the CARB board earlier this month in Sacramento. The joint CARB-EJAC meeting took place as the State Legislature was deliberating extending the state’s Cap-and-Trade emissions trading program, which CARB administers. At the meeting, EJAC presented it proposals for Cap-and-Trade, emphasizing that with the expected reauthorization (which the legislature enacted the following week), CARB has responsibilities for promulgating new rules that EJAC stressed must better incorporate environmental justice concerns.
ClimateBrief: California Assemblymember Diane Papan on AB 93, Her Bill That Would Require Data Centers to Report Water Use
September 24, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources, Privacy & Information Security
The California Legislature has closed its 2025 session by passing major environmental legislation. Extending California’s Cap-and-Trade greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions program until 2045 might be the most high-profile of the group. But a less flashy bill,
ClimateBrief: Despite Strong Federal Headwinds, California Continues to Push for Offshore Wind Development
September 19, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
The Trump administration’s reversal of support for renewable energy and decarbonization policies has been consequential for California across many fronts, such as uptake for
Despite Strong Federal Headwinds, California Continues to Push for Offshore Wind Development
September 19, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
The Trump administration’s reversal of support for renewable energy and decarbonization policies has been consequential for California across many fronts, such as uptake for
ClimateBrief: Trump's EPA Wants to Revoke the Legal Basis for Federal Emissions Rules. Experts Say California Will Step In to Fill the Void
September 5, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Administrative Law, Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
The Trump administration’s Environmental Protection Agency has
Trump's EPA Wants to Revoke the Legal Basis for Federal Emissions Rules. Experts Say California Will Step In to Fill the Void
September 5, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
The Trump administration’s Environmental Protection Agency has
UCLA Law Professor Richard L. Hasen on Gerrymandering in California and the Future of Voting Rights
August 25, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Constitutional Law
Gerrymandering and voting rights have emerged as prominent issues both in California and nationally this summer as attention turns to the 2026 midterm elections.
ClimateBrief: So Far, the Trump Administration Seems Friendly to Geothermal Energy and Critical Minerals Projects
August 19, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources, State & Local Government
Since coming into office, the current Trump administration has radically upended the forward trajectories of clean energy sources in the United States. For example, the administration has completely reversed the Biden administration’s previous supportive policy on offshore wind, issuing a first-day presidential memorandum that
So Far, the Trump Administration Seems Friendly to Geothermal Energy and Critical Minerals Projects
August 19, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
Since coming into office, the current Trump administration has radically upended the forward trajectories of clean energy sources in the United States. For example, the administration has completely reversed the Biden administration’s previous supportive policy on offshore wind, issuing a first-day presidential memorandum that
ClimateBrief: CARB Board's July Meeting Strikes Defiant Note, Touts Environmental Justice Achievements
August 12, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
At its July 24 meeting, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) proactively took on the challenge posed by a federal administration that has sought to cancel California climate regulations. The CARB board approved newly tailored amendments to its Advanced Clean Trucks (ACT) regulation, after the Trump administration and Congress rescinded the waiver previously granted for the regulation in June.
CARB Board's July Meeting Strikes Defiant Note, Touts Environmental Justice Achievements
August 12, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
At its July 24 meeting, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) proactively took on the challenge posed by a federal administration that has sought to cancel California climate regulations. The CARB board approved newly tailored amendments to its Advanced Clean Trucks (ACT) regulation, after the Trump administration and Congress rescinded the waiver previously granted for the regulation in June.
As Temperatures Get Hotter, California Launches New Public Tool to Help People Prepare for Extreme Heat
July 29, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
Extreme heat is one of the most urgent impacts of climate change. It carries with it immediate and serious health impacts that exacerbate background illnesses and can lead to emergency room visits and even death. Extreme heat also incurs substantial economic costs.
ClimateBrief: As Temperatures Get Hotter, California Launches New Public Tool to Help People Prepare for Extreme Heat
July 29, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
Extreme heat is one of the most urgent impacts of climate change. It carries with it immediate and serious health impacts that exacerbate background illnesses and can lead to emergency room visits and even death. Extreme heat also incurs substantial economic costs.
ClimateBrief: Recent CARB Board Meetings React to Second Trump Term, Highlight Pollution Control and Climate Programs
July 22, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
For the past two meetings of the California Air Resources Board meetings, the Trump administration’s positions cast a long shadow over the Board’s deliberations. On May 22, the day of CARB’s May meeting, Congress voted to reject the Biden-era Environmental Protection Agency’s granting of the California waiver for three of CARB’s recent transportation emissions regulations. And at its June 26 meeting, CARB’s first official matter of business was a vote to rescind its In-Use Locomotive Regulation, which the Board approved in April 2023 but which requires federal approval.
Recent CARB Board Meetings React to Second Trump Term, Highlight Pollution Control and Climate Programs
July 22, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
For the past two meetings of the California Air Resources Board meetings, the Trump administration’s positions cast a long shadow over the Board’s deliberations. On May 22, the day of CARB’s May meeting, Congress voted to reject the Biden-era Environmental Protection Agency’s granting of the California waiver for three of CARB’s recent transportation emissions regulations. And at its June 26 meeting, CARB’s first official matter of business was a vote to rescind its In-Use Locomotive Regulation, which the Board approved in April 2023 but which requires federal approval.
Addressing the Air Pollution Problem in California's Owens Valley, Dried Up by Decades of Water Diversions to LA
July 21, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
The Owens Lake area in eastern California stands out both for its unique natural history and its extreme particulate matter air pollution. The small lake valley, nestled between three California mountain ranges about 100 miles east of Death Valley, suffers from airborne dust after the valley’s water was diverted to Los Angeles beginning in the early 20th century, which dried out the lake and nearby water bodies. (The infamous diversion inspired the 1974 film “Chinatown.”)
ClimateBrief: Addressing the Air Pollution Problem in California's Owens Valley, Dried Up by Decades of Water Diversions to LA
July 21, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
The Owens Lake area in eastern California stands out both for its unique natural history and its extreme particulate matter air pollution. The small lake valley, nestled between three California mountain ranges about 100 miles east of Death Valley, suffers from airborne dust after the valley’s water was diverted to Los Angeles beginning in the early 20th century, which dried out the lake and nearby water bodies. (The infamous diversion inspired the 1974 film “Chinatown.”)
ClimateBrief: California Leads on Tropical Forest Restoration Efforts Leading Up to November's 'Forest COP' in Brazil
July 14, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
In late May, the Governors’ Climate & Forests Task Force convened their 15th annual meeting in Rio Branco, the capital of the western Brazil state of Acre. The GCF Task Force – of which California is a co-founder and an active member -- is an international alliance of subnational leaders focusing on protecting tropical forests and fostering sustainable economies in those areas.
California Leads on Tropical Forest Restoration Efforts Leading Up to November's 'Forest COP' in Brazil
July 14, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
In late May, the Governors’ Climate & Forests Task Force convened their 15th annual meeting in Rio Branco, the capital of the western Brazil state of Acre. The GCF Task Force – of which California is a co-founder and an active member -- is an international alliance of subnational leaders focusing on protecting tropical forests and fostering sustainable economies in those areas.
California Moves Forward With Regulations for Corporate Climate Disclosure Laws
June 30, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
The Biden administration’s climate efforts included a major focus on disclosure laws for companies’ greenhouse gas emissions and climate risks. The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) took the lead, and in March 2024 released rules requiring companies to disclose GHG emissions and a wide range of climate-related risks that could impact their operations. The rule was challenged in court, including by red state attorneys general, and the Biden administration SEC put the rules on hold pending the litigation. Then, this past March, the new SEC leadership under the Trump administration stated it would not defend the disclosure laws in court, most likely indicating the end of the road for the federal climate disclosure rules.
ClimateBrief: California Moves Forward With Regulations for Corporate Climate Disclosure Laws
June 30, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Administrative Law, Business Transactions, Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
The Biden administration’s climate efforts included a major focus on disclosure laws for companies’ greenhouse gas emissions and climate risks. The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) took the lead, and in March 2024 released rules requiring companies to disclose GHG emissions and a wide range of climate-related risks that could impact their operations. The rule was challenged in court, including by red state attorneys general, and the Biden administration SEC put the rules on hold pending the litigation. Then, this past March, the new SEC leadership under the Trump administration stated it would not defend the disclosure laws in court, most likely indicating the end of the road for the federal climate disclosure rules.
Two Emerging Legal Movements, Animal Rights and 'Rights of Nature,' Could Transform U.S. Environmental Law
June 24, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
California was the setting of the resonant 1972 Supreme Court case
ClimateBrief: Two Emerging Legal Movements, Animal Rights and 'Rights of Nature,' Could Transform U.S. Environmental Law
June 24, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
California was the setting of the resonant 1972 Supreme Court case
Despite Slashed Federal Support, California Charges Ahead With Infrastructure for Electric Trucks
June 13, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
California’s goal of steering its medium- and heavy-duty truck fleets to 100% zero-emissions vehicles by 2045 is encountering significant obstacles. With the Biden administration’s time running out, on January 13 the California Air Resources Board withdrew its pending request asking the federal Environmental Protection Agency for a waiver for California’s
ClimateBrief: Despite Slashed Federal Support, California Charges Ahead With Infrastructure for Electric Trucks
June 13, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
California’s goal of steering its medium- and heavy-duty truck fleets to 100% zero-emissions vehicles by 2045 is encountering significant obstacles. With the Biden administration’s time running out, on January 13 the California Air Resources Board withdrew its pending request asking the federal Environmental Protection Agency for a waiver for California’s
ClimateBrief: San Bernardino Water District Presents Climate Adaptation Plan at International Conference
June 11, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
At the European Geosciences Union’s annual conference in Vienna in April, many sessions focused on California, including discussions of fire and water management. One session that was focused on the Mediterranean climate featured back-to-back presentations on California natural resources management. The Mediterranean climate is a global phenomenon characterized by a winter rainy season and dry summers. In addition to the Mediterranean nations, South Africa, Australia and California are standout examples of Mediterranean climates.
From Flood to Drought: San Bernardino Water District Presents Climate Adaptation Plan at International Conference
June 11, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
At the European Geosciences Union’s annual conference in Vienna in April, many sessions focused on California, including discussions of fire and water management. One session that was focused on the Mediterranean climate featured back-to-back presentations on California natural resources management. The Mediterranean climate is a global phenomenon characterized by a winter rainy season and dry summers. In addition to the Mediterranean nations, South Africa, Australia and California are standout examples of Mediterranean climates.
ClimateBrief: New UC Berkeley Report Highlights Possibilities for Detecting and Reducing Methane Emissions By Satellite
May 20, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
The second Trump administration has pulled the United States out of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change’s implementing Paris Agreement, which certainly makes it no easier to meet the 2015 Paris Agreement’s
New UC Berkeley Report Highlights Possibilities for Detecting and Reducing Methane Emissions By Satellite
May 20, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
The second Trump administration has pulled the United States out of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change’s implementing Paris Agreement, which certainly makes it no easier to meet the 2015 Paris Agreement’s
California Is Looking to Lead the Way in Decarbonizing the Cement Sector
May 14, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
Cement is the key ingredient for concrete, the
ClimateBrief: California Is Looking to Lead the Way in Decarbonizing the Cement Sector
May 14, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
Cement is the key ingredient for concrete, the
California Cap-and-Trade: Legislation, New Regulations, and a Deal with Washington State Are All on the Table
May 13, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
After building anticipation throughout 2024, California’s Cap-and-Trade program remains in an uncertain place so far this year, with delayed state regulations and a federal administration intent on rolling back climate change policies. In a unique way, the program is at once in a threatened and opportune moment.
ClimateBrief: California Cap-and-Trade: Legislation, New Regulations, and a Deal with Washington State Are All on the Table
May 13, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
After building anticipation throughout 2024, California’s Cap-and-Trade program remains in an uncertain place so far this year, with delayed state regulations and a federal administration intent on rolling back climate change policies. In a unique way, the program is at once in a threatened and opportune moment.
Only in California: CARB Resubmits Low Carbon Fuel Standard Updates for Administrative Review
May 8, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Administrative Law, Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
As part of a process unique to California, on April 4 the California Air Resources Board posted modified amendments for the Low Carbon Fuel Standard program. Two months earlier, the state’s Office of Administrative Law disapproved amendments submitted by the agency earlier this year.
ClimateBrief: Only in California: CARB Resubmits Low Carbon Fuel Standard Updates for Administrative Review
May 8, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Administrative Law, Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
As part of a process unique to California, on April 4 the California Air Resources Board posted modified amendments for the Low Carbon Fuel Standard program. Two months earlier, the state’s Office of Administrative Law disapproved amendments submitted by the agency earlier this year.
Trump Executive Order Targets State-Level Climate Policies, Including California's
May 6, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
From the get-go, President Donald Trump has zeroed in on California’s environmental and energy policies in his second term, issuing executive actions during his first days in office targeting the state’s water distribution system and emissions standards. Following up on those January actions, on April 8 Trump issued another
ClimateBrief: Trump Executive Order Targets State-Level Climate Policies, Including California's
May 6, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources, State & Local Government
From the get-go, President Donald Trump has zeroed in on California’s environmental and energy policies in his second term, issuing executive actions during his first days in office targeting the state’s water distribution system and emissions standards. Following up on those January actions, on April 8 Trump issued another
ClimateBrief: State and Federal Laws, Combined With Cutting-Edge Conservation, Could Protect California Freshwater Species Under Climate Changes
April 29, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
California’s varied freshwater streams, rivers, and standing bodies of water, such as lakes and wetlands, are home to diverse fish species. Some of these are endemic to the state, such as the winter-run Chinook salmon, the delta smelt, and the California tiger salamander. The most vulnerable of these freshwater species are listed as endangered or threatened under the federal Endangered Species Act (ESA), and receive a similar listing or are described as “species of concern” under the California Endangered Species Act (CESA). While human alterations of habitat, water levels and flows, and invasive species have greatly impacted the well-being of freshwater populations, scientists say that climate change will further stress these species and put their ecosystems at risk.
New Report: State and Federal Laws, Combined With Cutting-Edge Conservation, Could Protect California Freshwater Species Under Climate Changes
April 29, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
California’s varied freshwater streams, rivers, and standing bodies of water, such as lakes and wetlands, are home to diverse fish species. Some of these are endemic to the state, such as the winter-run Chinook salmon, the delta smelt, and the California tiger salamander. The most vulnerable of these freshwater species are listed as endangered or threatened under the federal Endangered Species Act (ESA), and receive a similar listing or are described as “species of concern” under the California Endangered Species Act (CESA). While human alterations of habitat, water levels and flows, and invasive species have greatly impacted the well-being of freshwater populations, scientists say that climate change will further stress these species and put their ecosystems at risk.
ClimateBrief: SCOTUS Hears Arguments in Case Challenging the California Waiver
April 25, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Administrative Law, Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources, Litigation Practice & Procedure
The U.S. Supreme Court on Wednesday heard arguments in a case challenging the federal Clean Air Act’s “California waiver,” which gives the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency authority to grant California permission to issue state vehicle emissions regulations stricter than national standards. Although an attorney from the U.S. Department of Justice defended the waiver, its future remains uncertain, as House Republicans are
ClimateBrief: Rice Farming -- and a 1991 Agriculture Law -- Are Key in Conserving California's Biodiversity
April 16, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
Rice, one of California’s major crops,
Rice Farming -- and a 1991 Agriculture Law -- Are Key in Conserving California's Biodiversity
April 16, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
Rice, one of California’s major crops,
ClimateBrief: CARB Board Meeting Addresses LA Fire Response, While Members of the Public Call for Updated Methane Regulations
April 7, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
The California Air Resources Board (CARB) held the monthly meeting of its governing board on the last Thursday in March, where it received updates from the executive staff and heard public comments on topics including the agency’s ongoing response to the fires that devastated Los Angeles area in January. At the meeting, members of the community called on the agency to issue updates to its landfill methane regulations amid pollution and health concerns about a landfill and an
CARB Board Meeting Addresses LA Fire Response, While Members of the Public Call for Updated Methane Regulations
April 7, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
The California Air Resources Board (CARB) held the monthly meeting of its governing board on the last Thursday in March, where it received updates from the executive staff and heard public comments on topics including the agency’s ongoing response to the fires that devastated Los Angeles area in January. At the meeting, members of the community called on the agency to issue updates to its landfill methane regulations amid pollution and health concerns about a landfill and an
ClimateBrief: Amid Uncertainty, Controversy, and a Missed Statutory Deadline, CARB Maintains Focus on Carbon Capture
March 25, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
Carbon capture use and storage remains integral to California’s effort for meeting the state’s target of a statewide zero greenhouse gas emissions economy by 2045, as set by AB 1279. In 2022, Governor Gavin Newsom sent a
Amid Uncertainty, Controversy, and a Missed Statutory Deadline, CARB Maintains Focus on Carbon Capture
March 25, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
Carbon capture use and storage remains integral to California’s effort for meeting the state’s target of a statewide zero greenhouse gas emissions economy by 2045, as set by AB 1279. In 2022, Governor Gavin Newsom sent a
Environmental Groups Challenge Kern County Oil Drilling Permits As Trump Administration Takes on NEPA
March 19, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
At a time when the Trump administration is determined to return to maximal fossil fuel extraction and development in the United States, a group of California environmental organizations have challenged the federal government’s recent permitting of oil drilling operations in Kern County.
ClimateBrief: Environmental Groups Challenge Kern County Oil Drilling Permits As Trump Administration Takes on NEPA
March 19, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Administrative Law, Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
At a time when the Trump administration is determined to return to maximal fossil fuel extraction and development in the United States, a group of California environmental organizations have challenged the federal government’s recent permitting of oil drilling operations in Kern County.
Debating the Scope of a Clean Water Act Regulation, 5-4 SCOTUS Decides for San Francisco in Case Against the EPA
March 6, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
In a 5-4
ClimateBrief: Debating the Scope of a Clean Water Act Regulation, 5-4 SCOTUS Decides for San Francisco in Case Against the EPA
March 6, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
In a 5-4
ClimateBrief: After California Withdraws Request to Tighten Truck Emissions Standards, Experts Weigh Other Policy Options
March 6, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
Under the federal Clean Air Act, the U.S. Environmental Protection agency can grant a waiver to California for setting emissions regulations that are stricter than federal standards. Under the Act, other states can also adopt California’s standards pursuant to the waiver process. The waiver has been around for over 50 years and has overwhelmingly been granted to California. But in a
After California Withdraws Request to Tighten Truck Emissions Standards, Experts Weigh Other Policy Options
March 6, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
Under the federal Clean Air Act, the U.S. Environmental Protection agency can grant a waiver to California for setting emissions regulations that are stricter than federal standards. Under the Act, other states can also adopt California’s standards pursuant to the waiver process. The waiver has been around for over 50 years and has overwhelmingly been granted to California. But in a
ClimateBrief: Proposed California Bill SB 222 Would Allow Individuals, Insurers to Sue Big Oil for Climate Disasters
February 26, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources, Insurance Law, Litigation Practice & Procedure
California’s state government has grappled with how to respond to the devastating wildfires that caused widespread human suffering and staggering economic losses in the Los Angeles area last month. In addition to emergency responses, voices inside and outside the government are calling for ameliorative measures to expedite relief and begin planning for the future. In the California state legislature, one standout action is proposed bill SB 222, which State Senator Scott Wiener introduced on January 27, which would allow individuals and insurers to sue oil and gas companies for climate-related disasters.
Proposed California Bill SB 222 Would Allow Individuals, Insurers to Sue Big Oil for Climate Disasters
February 26, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources, Insurance Law, Litigation Practice & Procedure
California’s state government has grappled with how to respond to the devastating wildfires that caused widespread human suffering and staggering economic losses in the Los Angeles area last month. In addition to emergency responses, voices inside and outside the government are calling for ameliorative measures to expedite relief and begin planning for the future. In the California state legislature, one standout action is proposed bill SB 222, which State Senator Scott Wiener introduced on January 27, which would allow individuals and insurers to sue oil and gas companies for climate-related disasters.
ClimateBrief: Even As Federal Government Hits the Brakes on Electric Vehicle Support, California Accelerates EV Transition
February 19, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
While California has enacted consequential policies and programs that steer power generation to renewable energy sources, such as the
Even As Federal Government Hits the Brakes on Electric Vehicle Support, California Accelerates EV Transition
February 19, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
While California has enacted consequential policies and programs that steer power generation to renewable energy sources, such as the
California Water Law Expert Brian Gray on the Politics of Water Management After the LA Fires
February 11, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
With fire devastating communities in the Los Angeles area, that other classical element, water, is much the focus. In an era of climate change that alternates constantly between flood and drought, California water policy formulations -- which are complicated enough -- now face a future of extremes. National politics also enters the picture, with President Donald Trump blaming California water policy for fire suppression difficulties, and issuing two directives on California water during his first two weeks in office.
ClimateBrief: California Water Law Expert Brian Gray on the Politics of Water Management After the LA Fires
February 11, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources, Water Supplies
With fire devastating communities in the Los Angeles area, that other classical element, water, is much the focus. In an era of climate change that alternates constantly between flood and drought, California water policy formulations -- which are complicated enough -- now face a future of extremes. National politics also enters the picture, with President Donald Trump blaming California water policy for fire suppression difficulties, and issuing two directives on California water during his first two weeks in office.
As California Water Policy Enters National Politics, UC Initiative Aims for Equity in State's Water Allocation
February 7, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources, Water Supplies
California’s determination to lead in staving off the worst impacts of climate change is robustly articulated by AB 1279, signed by Governor Gavin Newsom in 2022, and which mandates net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2045. California policy also acknowledges that climate impacts to natural and socio-ecological systems, like the water sector, are already set in motion, and the state sets adaptation as a key pillar in the state’s climate change response. In 2015, then-Governor Jerry Brown signed
As California Water Policy Enters National Politics, UC Initiative Aims for Equity in State's Water Allocation
February 7, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources, Water Supplies
California’s determination to lead in staving off the worst impacts of climate change is robustly articulated by AB 1279, signed by Governor Gavin Newsom in 2022, and which mandates net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2045. California policy also acknowledges that climate impacts to natural and socio-ecological systems, like the water sector, are already set in motion, and the state sets adaptation as a key pillar in the state’s climate change response.
ClimateBrief: U.S. Treasury Department’s Finalized 45V Clean Hydrogen Rule Addresses Key California Concerns
February 3, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
One of the most substantial climate policy actions the Biden administration took as it left office was issuing final regulations on the 45V “clean hydrogen tax credit,” which is authorized by the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). Energy producers and distributors, environmentalists, and policy makers paid close attention to the almost 2-year process for the proposal, comment period, and final promulgation of the rule.
U.S. Treasury Department’s Finalized 45V Clean Hydrogen Rule Addresses Key California Concerns
February 3, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
One of the most substantial climate policy actions the Biden administration took as it left office was issuing final regulations on the 45V “clean hydrogen tax credit,” which is authorized by the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). Energy producers and distributors, environmentalists, and policy makers paid close attention to the almost 2-year process for the proposal, comment period, and final promulgation of the rule.
ClimateBrief: Trump's First Climate-Related Executive Actions Target California Policies
January 24, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Administrative Law, Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
Journalists, policy analysts, advocates and ordinary citizens are trying to grasp the vertiginous full sweep of President Donald Trump’s numerous executive actions, beginning with a large collection of executive orders his first day in office. But one clear point that Trump’s first actions demonstrate is that both climate change policies and California are targets of his aggressive agenda.
Trump's First Climate-Related Executive Actions Target California Policies
January 24, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
Journalists, policy analysts, advocates and ordinary citizens are trying to grasp the vertiginous full sweep of President Donald Trump’s numerous executive actions, beginning with a large collection of executive orders his first day in office. But one clear point that Trump’s first actions demonstrate is that both climate change policies and California are targets of his aggressive agenda.
Trump Orders Executive Branch to End Social Cost of Carbon Analysis. But the Tool Is Still Critical for State and International Climate Policy
January 22, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
A seemingly arcane matter of law, the social cost of carbon (SCC) is one of the most far-reaching administrative tools for formulating and implementing climate change policy. The influential 2017 National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) report, “Valuing Climate Damages: Updating Estimation of the Social Cost of Carbon Dioxide,”
ClimateBrief: Trump Orders Executive Branch to End Social Cost of Carbon Analysis. But the Tool Is Still Critical for State and International Climate Policy
January 22, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
A seemingly arcane matter of law, the social cost of carbon (SCC) is one of the most far-reaching administrative tools for formulating and implementing climate change policy. The influential 2017 National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) report, “Valuing Climate Damages: Updating Estimation of the Social Cost of Carbon Dioxide,”
LA Wildfires, Newsom's Executive Order Bring California Climate Law to the National Forefront
January 15, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
In the Los Angeles area, the suffering and damage of the still-uncontained wildfires that broke out last week have raised questions about how to best respond with law and policy. The crisis raises legal issues such as disaster planning, divisive national debates as to water and conservation law, and efforts to legally address climate change, for which California has made distinct commitments.
ClimateBrief: LA Wildfires, Newsom's Executive Order Bring California Climate Law to the National Forefront
January 15, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources, Real Property
In the Los Angeles area, the suffering and damage of the still-uncontained wildfires that broke out last week have raised questions about how to best respond with law and policy. The crisis raises legal issues such as disaster planning, divisive national debates as to water and conservation law, and efforts to legally address climate change, for which California has made distinct commitments.
California’s Updated Low Carbon Fuel Standard Likely to Survive Incoming Trump Administration
January 15, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
In 2025, California climate regulations that were deliberated last year will continue to attract attention at both the state and national levels. The U.S. Supreme Court has
ClimateBrief: California’s Updated Low Carbon Fuel Standard Likely to Survive Incoming Trump Administration
January 15, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
In 2025, California climate regulations that were deliberated last year will continue to attract attention at both the state and national levels. The U.S. Supreme Court has
Cutting 'Green Tape': California Looks to Expedite Regulatory Reviews for Conservation and Climate Resilience Projects
January 7, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
Policymakers, climate advocates, and conservation ecologists increasingly link conservation and habitat restoration with climate resilience and adaptation in California. With ecosystems under climate-related stresses, maintaining robust natural habitats provides buffers from hazards to human communities and other species, as well as a wider space for resilience for natural, agricultural and diverse rural and urban settings.
ClimateBrief: Cutting 'Green Tape': California Looks to Expedite Regulatory Reviews for Conservation and Climate Resilience Projects
January 7, 2025
Rich Blaustein
Administrative Law, Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
Policymakers, climate advocates, and conservation ecologists increasingly link conservation and habitat restoration with climate resilience and adaptation in California. With ecosystems under climate-related stresses, maintaining robust natural habitats provides buffers from hazards to human communities and other species, as well as a wider space for resilience for natural, agricultural and diverse rural and urban settings.
COP29 and California: Continuing Momentum for Global Climate Action, But Uncertainty Ahead With Incoming Trump Administration
December 23, 2024
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
For those who pay attention to the connection of California to international climate efforts, there is a lot to process about the twenty-ninth Conference of the Parties (COP) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), which was held in Baku, Azerbaijan in November. Convened alongside the UNFCCC, COP is “the Conference of the Parties serving as the Meeting of the Parties to the Paris Agreement” (CMA), with the Paris Agreement being the UNFCCC implementing accord agreed at the 2016 COP23 in Paris in 2016.
ClimateBrief: COP29 and California: Continuing Momentum for Global Climate Action, But Uncertainty Ahead With Incoming Trump Administration
December 23, 2024
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
For those who pay attention to the connection of California to international climate efforts, there is a lot to process about the twenty-ninth Conference of the Parties (COP) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), which was held in Baku, Azerbaijan in November. Convened alongside the UNFCCC, COP is “the Conference of the Parties serving as the Meeting of the Parties to the Paris Agreement” (CMA), with the Paris Agreement being the UNFCCC implementing accord agreed at the 2016 COP23 in Paris in 2016.
California Advances Plans for Geothermal Energy, Lithium Extraction, and Local Development in the Salton Sea
December 10, 2024
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
Geothermal renewable energy, which channels the Earth’s interior heat and converts it to energy sources at the surface, has gained increased attention as a reliable baseload energy supplier. Geothermal sites can provide energy round the clock, regardless of daily or seasonal cycles. Moreover, geothermal heat is often collected at sites of below ground hot fluids, which could be brines containing critical minerals that figure large in the clean energy future. Lithium is a standout mineral sought and increasingly detected in these brines.
ClimateBrief: California Advances Plans for Geothermal Energy, Lithium Extraction, and Local Development in the Salton Sea
December 10, 2024
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
Geothermal renewable energy, which channels the Earth’s interior heat and converts it to energy sources at the surface, has gained increased attention as a reliable baseload energy supplier. Geothermal sites can provide energy round the clock, regardless of daily or seasonal cycles. Moreover, geothermal heat is often collected at sites of below ground hot fluids, which could be brines containing critical minerals that figure large in the clean energy future. Lithium is a standout mineral sought and increasingly detected in these brines.
ClimateBrief: New UC Davis Research Finds That With Climate Change Comes Mobilized Nitrate, Threatening California Drinking Water
December 3, 2024
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
Fertilizer contains nitrates, a major agent for increasing crop yield in California agriculture, which leads the nation in crop output and variety. However, applied nitrate can also leach into groundwater -- posing serious public health concerns, especially for prenatal and infant health.
New UC Davis Research Finds That With Climate Change Comes Mobilized Nitrate, Threatening California Drinking Water
December 3, 2024
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
Fertilizer contains nitrates, a major agent for increasing crop yield in California agriculture, which leads the nation in crop output and variety. However, applied nitrate can also leach into groundwater -- posing serious public health concerns, especially for prenatal and infant health.
ClimateBrief: Hydrogen-Fueled Trucks and Fleets Gain Support in California, But Face Uncertainties at the Federal Level
November 26, 2024
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
Shifting from greenhouse gas-emitting fossil fuel diesel trucks and fleets to zero emissions vehicles is a key piece for California in achieving its goal of net-zero GHG emissions by 2045, as directed by AB 1279, which Governor Gavin Newsom signed in 2022. The state has made major strides to reduce diesel emissions by adding renewable and bio-based diesel fuel to the petroleum-based diesel source. However, the fuel displacement does not completely meet the state’s zero emission standards and has incurred some controversy, as there are open questions as to what degree California demand for biodiesel inputs has negative land use impacts, especially food price spikes and deforestation.
Hydrogen-Fueled Trucks and Fleets Gain Support in California, But Face Uncertainties at the Federal Level
November 26, 2024
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
Shifting from greenhouse gas-emitting fossil fuel diesel trucks and fleets to zero emissions vehicles is a key piece for California in achieving its goal of net-zero GHG emissions by 2045, as directed by AB 1279, which Governor Gavin Newsom signed in 2022. The state has made major strides to reduce diesel emissions by adding renewable and bio-based diesel fuel to the petroleum-based diesel source. However, the fuel displacement does not completely meet the state’s zero emission standards and has incurred some controversy, as there are open questions as to what degree California demand for biodiesel inputs has negative land use impacts, especially food price spikes and deforestation.
After Dramatic 12-Hour Meeting, CARB Board Adopts New Regulations for Low Carbon Fuel Standard
November 19, 2024
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
With a near cliffhanger ending, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) approved a set of amendments for the regulations of the state’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS) on November 8. The LCFS, which is designed to promote development of cleaner and less greenhouse gas (GHG) emitting fuels, is one of California’s premier programs in the state’s effort to advance decarbonization.
ClimateBrief: After Dramatic 12-Hour Meeting, CARB Board Adopts New Regulations for Low Carbon Fuel Standard
November 19, 2024
Rich Blaustein
Environmental, Land Use & Natural Resources
With a near cliffhanger ending, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) approved a set of amendments for the regulations of the state’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS) on November 8. The LCFS, which is designed to promote development of cleaner and less greenhouse gas (GHG) emitting fuels, is one of California’s premier programs in the state’s effort to advance decarbonization.
