The Stream, September 9: Economists Say Climate Smart Cities Could Save Trillions of Dollars

The Global Rundown

Designing cities to effectively deal with climate change could save the world a lot of money in the future, according to an international group of economists. Zambia’s economy is struggling amid a drought and low copper prices, and low water levels in Poland threaten its energy security. A study in Australia found that mines that change groundwater levels affect environments several kilometers away.

“This is serious, it could bring our economy to its knees.”–Maambo Hamaundu, an independent analyst, on the potential effect of an electricity shortage and low copper prices on Zambia’s copper mines. Low hydropower reserves are driving the lack of electricity. (Reuters)

By The Numbers

$22 trillion Amount that “climate smart” cities could save the world by spurring economic growth and cutting carbon emissions, according to the Global Commission on Economy and Climate. Guardian

Science, Studies, And Reports

Groundwater level changes due to mining operations can affect tree growth several kilometers away from the immediate mine, according to a study by researchers at Western Sydney University. The study could change the environmental assessment of potential mines and other development projects that affect groundwater. Guardian

On The Radar

The Economic Society of Polish Power Plants warned that the country needs to act quickly to bolster its electricity supplies to avoid further blackouts. Low water levels in Poland’s rivers could hinder electricity production this winter because they are used to cool power plants. 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