Economic development can reduce carbon emissions. The Environmental Kuznets Curve suggests that it initially increases up to a threshold, then decreases. The relationship was found to be non-linear, with a turning point at around $25,000 per capita income and climate policies can moderate this relationship.
The Paris Agreement is 10 years old, but its goals of limiting global temperature rise to less than 2°C and reaching net-zero emissions this century are at risk due to the continued increase in global emissions and insufficient commitments, both in climate action and financing to developing countries.
Climate change is an urgent concern for educational policy in the United States, where a dual crisis of declining educational outcomes and increasing climate impacts is being faced. The pandemic has exacerbated declining achievement and absenteeism. Strengthening the pre-K-12 system is essential for economic prosperity and innovation. Climate affects school operations and schools can reduce emissions, integrate climate science into the curriculum, and help with preparation.
Climate change is affecting school operations in the U.S. A study shows that public schools are vulnerable to climate risks in states such as California, Florida, and Texas. The Brookings Institution emphasizes the need to adapt and build resilience in schools.
NOAA faced cuts and layoffs under Trump, affecting its ability to forecast natural disasters. The Secretary of Commerce rejected a proposed reduction plan by the president. The lack of personnel and resources weakened the agency and affected the accuracy of climate forecasts.
