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US Diplomats Achieve Progress on Climate Super Pollutants with Private Sector Support

U.S. wins at UN climate summit with ClimeCo's deal to cut China's N2O emissions, a potent climate super pollutant.
A view of Pingmei Shenma Group’s nylon production complex in Pingdingshan, China on Aug. 13, 2022. Credit: Feature China/Future Publishing via Getty Images

U.S. negotiators secured a notable achievement at the United Nations’ climate summit in Azerbaijan amid concerns over an upcoming administration less supportive of climate initiatives. ClimeCo, a sustainability firm from Pennsylvania, announced agreements with four Chinese chemical companies at the COP29 event to significantly curb nitrous oxide emissions from their facilities.

Nitrous oxide (N2O), a potent climate pollutant, is 273 times more effective than carbon dioxide in warming the planet. Often labeled as the “forgotten greenhouse gas”, it is a major climate change driver and a leading cause of ozone layer depletion.

U.S. State Department officials had identified N2O emissions reductions from Chinese chemical plants as a crucial environmental target, highlighted during a White House climate summit.

A U.N. Environment Program report revealed that cutting human-caused N2O emissions by 40% by mid-century could equal eliminating six years of fossil fuel emissions and prevent 20 million premature deaths by improving air quality.

While agriculture remains the largest N2O source, emissions from chemical plants are more easily reduced. ClimeCo estimates the annual reduction from these plants will equal 45 million metric tons of carbon dioxide, akin to removing 11 million gas cars from roads.

ClimeCo CEO William Flederbach described the initiative as a “pinch-me moment.” The chemical plants, situated in eastern and southern China, produce adipic acid, used in nylon manufacturing, where N2O is an unwanted byproduct.

Adipic acid plants in other regions voluntarily installed N2O controls in the 1990s. China joined later, incentivized by a U.N. program, but ceased efforts when funding ended in the 2010s, as reported in an investigation by Inside Climate News.

Rick Duke, the U.S. deputy special envoy for climate, emphasized the potential for large-scale, low-cost N2O emission cuts from Chinese chemical plants. Duke cited the possibility of removing 200 million tons of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions annually by 2030.

ClimeCo is collaborating with Chinese plants to install systems that convert N2O into nitrogen and oxygen gas. These measures are projected to destroy 97-98% of emissions and are accompanied by real-time monitoring.

Climate advocates, however, question the reliance on carbon offsets and credits, with studies suggesting actual emission reductions fall short of claims. Lambert Schneider, from Germany’s Oeko-Institut, notes integrity issues but sees potential in the ClimeCo projects to overachieve in reductions.

In addition to ClimeCo, Invista, a U.S. nylon firm, is also aiding Chinese adipic acid producers in cutting N2O emissions. The combined efforts of ClimeCo and Invista aim to eliminate 75 million tons of carbon dioxide equivalent from Chinese plants, contributing significantly to global reduction targets.

U.S. climate envoy John Podesta emphasized the importance of international cooperation in tackling non-CO2 greenhouse gases. Meanwhile, Avipsa Mahapatra from the Environmental Investigation Agency expressed disappointment in the lack of decisive U.S. and Chinese action.

The U.S. aims to achieve over a 50% reduction in industrial N2O emissions from 2020 levels by 2025. The next focus includes setting emission reduction targets for all greenhouse gases under the Paris Agreement.

China’s climate envoy Liu Zhenmin acknowledged challenges in emission reduction technologies and monitoring capabilities, while Li Shuo from the Asia Society urged Chinese regulators to enhance their efforts.

Original Story at insideclimatenews.org

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Mississippi River Faces Persistent Saltwater Intrusion, Region Seeks Long-Term Solutions



For the third consecutive year, the Mississippi River is experiencing significant saltwater intrusion, prompting local communities and environmental experts to search for sustainable solutions. This recurring issue arises as the river’s flow decreases, allowing saltwater to move upstream and threaten drinking water supplies. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is actively involved in addressing this problem, employing temporary measures like saltwater barriers to mitigate the impact on affected areas.



Saltwater infiltration poses serious risks to public health and agriculture, as freshwater sources become compromised. The situation is exacerbated by prolonged periods of drought, which have reduced freshwater flow in the Mississippi River. According to the National Weather Service, drought conditions have worsened due to climate change, increasing the frequency and severity of saltwater intrusion events.



Local authorities are collaborating with federal agencies to explore permanent solutions. Among the proposed strategies are enhanced levee systems and improved water management techniques. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is evaluating the feasibility of long-term infrastructure projects to prevent further saltwater encroachment. Additionally, community leaders are advocating for increased funding to support these initiatives and safeguard the region’s water resources.



The impact of saltwater intrusion extends beyond drinking water concerns, affecting local ecosystems and agricultural productivity. Farmers in the region have reported crop damage due to elevated salinity levels in irrigation water. The Natural Resources Conservation Service is working with farmers to implement adaptive practices, such as planting salt-tolerant crops and improving soil management techniques.



As the Mississippi River continues to face challenges from saltwater intrusion, stakeholders emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts and innovative solutions. The ongoing threat underscores the need for comprehensive planning and investment to protect one of America’s most vital waterways from the impacts of climate change and environmental stressors.

November 19, 2024



Environmental activists have raised concerns over the fossil fuel sector’s significant impact on COP29, the latest United Nations Climate Change Conference. Activists argue that the industry’s presence diverts focus from critical climate actions.



The conference, designed to promote global climate agreements, faces criticism for allowing fossil fuel companies to participate extensively. Environmental groups claim these companies undermine efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.



According to Climate Action Network, fossil fuel representatives have increased their lobbying activities, aiming to weaken climate policies. These industries allegedly influence negotiations, leading to watered-down commitments that fail to address the urgency of climate change effectively.



Experts suggest that the influence of these companies stems from financial contributions and longstanding relationships with decision-makers. Critics argue that this affects the conference’s ability to enforce meaningful climate change regulations.



During the event, several protests highlighted the need for transparency and a stronger focus on sustainable energy solutions. Activists are calling for increased participation of renewable energy stakeholders in future conferences.



The controversy surrounding fossil fuel involvement at COP29 underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing industrial interests with the global imperative to combat climate change.



November 19, 2024