Carbon Critical

Phasing out a particular fuel source can prove tricky. The experiences of the United Kingdom with coal and Germany with nuclear power are harbingers of fuel exit debates to come.

When it comes to climate policy, coal power and the EU’s proposed carbon border adjustment mechanism will likely cause friction within the EU-US-China triangle this year. But all sides have shown that they can work together.

Carbon dioxide removal is on the agenda, even if most politicians won’t admit it.

One of the reasons advanced for building the controversial Nord Stream 2 pipeline is that it’s needed for a cleaner hydrogen future. But such arguments don’t add up.

The European Union is getting ready to introduce a so-called carbon border tax. But such a mechanism will not be easy to implement and has some pitfalls.

In the Brexit negotiations presently on knife’s edge, climate issues play a minor role. However, concerns around them mirror the obstacles. Both sides should realize they are essentially on the same team.

In the bid to tackle global warming, achieving net-zero carbon dioxide emissions would be good. Net-zero greenhouse gas emissions would be even better.

A Biden victory could pave the way for a big US climate package to match the European Green Deal. However, the checks and balances of the US political system may still throw up obstacles.

The EU’s coronavirus recovery package is much greener than that of China or the US. Brussels hopes that its partner-competitors follow its lead next year.

The German chancellor has signaled that climate protection is high on her EU presidency agenda. She is well positioned to advance her goals.