The Stream, December 14: Global Climate Deal Signed in Paris

The Global Rundown

The first legally binding global climate deal was signed in Paris, setting a goal to keep global temperature rise below 2 degrees Celsius. The deal could require $16.5 trillion in renewable energy and efficiency investments by 2030. Water quality monitoring and pollution prevention efforts along the Great Barrier Reef need significantly more funding, a government report found. Brazil arrested four people in an investigation of corruption regarding a major water supply project. The U.S. Supreme Court agreed to hear a case about disputes between the government and citizens over Clean Water Act jurisdiction.

“This was the last chance. And we took it.”–Miguel Arias Canete, the European Commission’s commissioner for climate action and energy, on the first legally binding global climate deal signed in Paris over the weekend. The agreement aims to cut carbon emissions to hold global temperatures below an increase of 2 degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit). (Guardian)

By The Numbers

$16.5 trillion Investments needed globally by 2030 to implement renewable energy and efficiency measures to meet the goals set by the Paris climate deal. Bloomberg

4 people Number arrested in Brazil as part of a corruption investigation regarding a project to divert water from the Sao Francisco River to the country’s dry northeastern region. Reuters

Science, Studies, And Reports

Efforts to monitor and reduce pollution that degrades water quality along the Great Barrier Reef need much more funding to be effective, according to an interim report released by a Queensland government taskforce. The report urged regulations regarding load limits for pollution, such as nitrogen and sediment runoff, and investment from private industry and philanthropic organizations. Guardian

On The Radar

The U.S. Supreme Court will hear a case that could determine whether or not citizens can contest federal government decisions that their property falls under the Clean Water Act. Owners of property that is under Clean Water Act jurisdiction can be required to obtain permits or pay fines for development projects on the property. Reuters

Codi Kozacek

A news correspondent for Circle of Blue based out of Hawaii. She writes The Stream, Circle of Blue’s daily digest of international water news trends. Her interests include food security, ecology and the Great Lakes.
Contact Codi Kozacek