Editor’s choice
This paper finds that California could reduce global emissions substantially if it joined a growing list of governments that limit oil production.
Despite the current ambivalence of the United States towards the Paris Agreement, national and local jurisdictions across the globe remain committed, and they are seeking ways to increase the ambition and effectiveness of their climate policies.
One way forwards could be limiting the production — not just the consumption — of coal, gas and oil.
Here we describe the rationale for, and CO2 emissions implications of, limiting oil production. Seven countries have recently imposed such limits, and we develop a case study for a potential addition to this group, the US state of California. We find that by ceasing the issuance of permits for new oil wells, California could reduce global CO2 emissions substantially and also enhance environmental justice in the state.
Feature / The new Production Gap Report shows that the world is on track to produce 120% more fossil fuels than can be burned under 1.5°C warming.
Other publication / This study – from SEI and Brown University's Climate and Development Lab – finds that Rhode Island can feasibly decarbonize its economy in one or two decades.
Press release / As Congress focuses anew on climate, SEI researchers outline three principles to inform the structure of a rapid phase-out of U.S. fossil fuel production.
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