The study shows that emissions can feasibly be reduced by as much as 80% over the next one to two decades.
Rhode Island’s emissions are far higher than previously estimated, but the state can feasibly decarbonize its economy in just one or two decades using established technologies, according to a new study from the Stockholm Environment Institute and Brown University’s Climate and Development Lab.
Researchers will present the study to the state’s Executive Climate Change Coordinating Council at a public meeting on Thursday, 12 September. Brown University commissioned the study after the Office of Rhode Island Governor Gina Raimondo indicated to researchers that it would be interested in deeper emission reduction targets, if their feasibility was demonstrated.
To estimate Rhode Island’s emissions, researchers built a model in SEI’s Long-range Energy Alternatives Planning (LEAP) system. They used the state’s 2016 GHG Reduction Study as a starting point, and updated that emissions baseline using the latest science.
“The updated science on methane leakage from natural gas infrastructure changed the game dramatically. It showed that the state needs to quickly rethink its energy strategy,” said SEI Senior Scientist Jason Veysey, lead author of the study. “The good news is that the modeling also showed that with the right programs and policies, the state can be a leader and quickly make a transition off of fossil fuels.”
The study charts three pathways – to 2030, 2040 and 2050 – that would lead Rhode Island to deep decarbonization. All use established technologies, and all require the state to stop buying new fossil-fueled equipment. Steps include using modern heat pumps for heating and cooling, shifting to electric vehicles, and expanding offshore wind development.
“This study seeks scientific rigor on fundamental issues,” said study co-lead Timmons Roberts, Professor at the Institute at Brown for Environment and Society. “The findings are clear and positive: the transition is feasible, with sharply cleaner air, locally produced electricity, and quality jobs. It’s a transition that a growing number of states and nations have seen is inevitable, affordable, and beneficial.”
The study’s highlights include:
More research is needed to understand the equity implications of the report’s findings, and to identify policies that address impacts of climate action and inaction on Rhode Island’s frontline communities and fossil fuel workers.
Deeper Decarbonization in the Ocean State calls for further research and the development of a plan to systematically move the state off of natural gas. It does not suggest waiting for those results: the study demonstrates that most of the picture on this necessary transformation is now well-understood, feasible, and affordable.
For interviews and further information, please contact:
Timmons Roberts, Director, the Climate and Development Lab at Brown University
401-441-2103, [email protected]
Jason Veysey, Senior Scientist, SEI US
617-803-5690, [email protected]
Emily Yehle, Communications Officer, SEI US
202-744-9055, [email protected] @yehle
SEI is an international non-profit research and policy organization that tackles environment and development challenges. We connect science and decision-making to develop solutions for a sustainable future for all. Our approach is highly collaborative: stakeholder involvement is at the heart of our efforts to build capacity, strengthen institutions, and equip partners for the long term.
Our work spans climate, water, air, and land-use issues, and integrates evidence and perspectives on governance, the economy, gender and human health. Across our eight centres in Europe, Asia, Africa and the Americas, we engage with policy processes, development action and business practice throughout the world. @SEIresearch @SEIclimate
Brown University’s Climate and Development Lab is a think tank based at the Institute at Brown for Environment and Society and was founded in 2010 as an experiment in engaged learning and scholarship. The CDL produces timely, accessible and impactful research that informs a more just and effective climate change policy. We work with leading actors in government, civil society and the media around the world in the attempt to bring about change by identifying and filling important research gaps and generating ideas for action. We contribute to the climate debate by providing commentary and analysis through the production of academic papers, policy briefs, op-eds and blogs, and organizing events. [email protected]; @ClimateDevLab; climatedevlab.brown.edu
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.
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