ABSTRACT

The United States is often perceived as sceptical, if not hostile, to the need to address man-made climate change. US government policy has undoubtedly disappointed environmentalists and scientists who believe more concerted action is needed, but a careful examination of the evidence reveals a number of policy actions designed to investigate, mitigate, and adapt to climate change have been implemented. Laws, regulatory action, and court rulings have led to advances in climate science, action to reduce levels of greenhouse gas emissions and efforts to prepare for the potential consequences of climate change. In this important book Chris Bailey explains and details the challenges and achievements of US climate change policy from its origins to the present day.

chapter |14 pages

Introduction

chapter 1|32 pages

The Problem, Policies, and Politics

chapter 2|18 pages

Small Steps to Rio

chapter 3|22 pages

Staggering Towards Kyoto

chapter 4|28 pages

Scepticism, Neglect, and Obstruction

chapter 5|34 pages

Action and Reaction

chapter |6 pages

Conclusions