Combating Climate Change Through Regulatory Relief

Event Summary

As the climate change crisis becomes increasingly apparent, there are growing calls from policymakers and academics to reduce regulatory burdens on zero-carbon renewable energy development. But extreme scenarios, such as exempting renewables from most environmental and land use laws, could backfire. Explore more in a virtual lecture by Kleinman Center Visiting Scholar Hannah Wiseman—moderated by Cary Coglianese of Penn Law.

Transitioning rapidly to renewable energy will be an essential tool to slow the pace of climate change. And easing regulatory requirements for renewables will be a key part of this toolkit. But exempting renewables from land use laws could backfire due to public opposition. Further, new laws will be necessary to ensure that the rapid transition is as “just” as possible—that workers in the fossil fuel industry have the retraining they need and want; that fossil fuel-dependent communities receive funding and guidance for developing innovative, sustainable industries; and that new energy development does not perpetuate existing environmental justice issues.

Join us for an exploration of a middle ground option, in which we develop renewable energy at a fast clip—while still addressing important social and environmental impacts.