National and sub-national policies: Denmark and California

Denmarks new climate law in 2019

-commits to reach 70% of its 1990 emissions by 2030
-targets carbon neutrality by 2050
-legally binding targets set every 5 years
-obligation to deliver on international agreements, inc climate finance to developing countries

How does Denmark aim to achieve their climate targets?

-phase out fossil fuels and increase investment in wind and solar power
-methane produced by domestic livestock and fertilisers will be controlled

How does Denmark aim to reduce demand for fossil fuels?

-carbon taxes
-tax exemptions for hydrogen cell and electric cars
-cheaper public transport
-railway electrification
-promotion of cycling

Copenhagens adaptation strategy (2011)

-create 'climate proof neighbourhoods'
-pre-empts flooding by improving the citys storm water drains
-storm barriers and dykes raised along the most vulnerable shorelines
-new buildings elevated on platforms
-create more areas of open water, vegetation and shade, and improve air circulation to reduce heat island effect
-sandbagging to help reduce flood impact

California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006

-set state wide limits on GHG emissions
-commited the state to decarbonisation and a clean energy economy

What is the emissions target in California?

Reduce GHG emissions by 80% below 1990 levels by 2050

Californias long term mitigation strategy

-phasing out fossil fuels
-cap and trade
-reducing emissions from motor vehicles
-promoting renewable energy

How much of its electricity does California aim to generate from renewables by 2030?

50% by 2030

Caifornias adaptation strategies

-improve water management
-avoid new development in areas with inadequate protection against flooding, wildfires and erosion
-safeguard existing areas of value against floods, fires and erosion
-protect aquatic habitats and ecosystems

Examples of strategies being implemented in California

-2900ft of dune restoration along Pacific Coast Highway
-230,000 square feet of asphalt and concrete in Santa Barbara being replaced with permeable surfaces