News & Commentary

What Are “EnergyGuide” and “Energy Star” Anyway?

September 14, 2023 ExplainerUnited StatesJeff Turrentine

A guide to decoding the government’s tip sheets for buying the most energy-efficient appliance.

Building Electrification: The Future of Home Energy

September 13, 2023 Expert BlogUnited StatesMadeline Semanisin

Illinois deserves better options when it comes to heating our homes. Building electrification is a cost effective and safe alternative to the gas system.

Energy Efficiency Matters Now More Than Ever

September 13, 2023 Expert BlogWashington, D.C.Lauren Urbanek

Achieving a low-carbon future is in reach–but only if policy-makers take swift and decisive actions to prioritize energy efficiency.

A Resource for Energy-Burdened Communities

September 6, 2023 Expert BlogUnited StatesMaria Correa

Energy burden has disproportionately impacted low-income communities of color for decades. NRDC is actively working to bring justice to these communities through this mapping tool.

Strategies for Equitable Implementation of EPA's GGRF

August 31, 2023 Expert BlogUnited StatesAdam Kent

NRDC and University of New Hampshire's Center for Impact Finance release a series of sector-specific strategy guides and webinars exploring how EPA's Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund (GGRF) can deliver a more equitable clean energy transition.

Chicago’s Historic Environmental Justice HUD Settlement

August 29, 2023 Expert BlogUnited States, ChicagoGina Ramirez

HUD reached a first-of-its-kind settlement agreement with the city of Chicago and three Southeast Side environmental justice organizations in May 2023.

Automakers Try to Dodge Their EV Commitments

August 28, 2023 Expert BlogUnited StatesKathy Harris

Despite claims to support electric vehicles, automakers are attempting to thwart new federal standards that would accelerate the transition to clean transportation.

What Are Heat Pump Air Conditioners?

August 25, 2023 ExplainerUnited StatesAlejandra Mejia Cunningham, Alex Hillbrand

They’re way more efficient and cost-effective than standard ACs. Even better, they double as carbon-slashing heating systems.

Colorado makes Buildings Cleaner, More Livable

August 24, 2023 Expert BlogColoradoAlejandra Mejia Cunningham, Claire Lang-Ree

With a new Building Performance Standard policy, Colorado is leading the nation with clean, healthy buildings.

What’s the Most Energy-Efficient Water Heater?

August 22, 2023 ExplainerInternational, United StatesPatrick Rogers

The new generation of eco-friendly heat pump water heaters will reduce your home’s emissions while also shrinking your utility bills.

Breathing Easy: Truckers’ Health and the Rise of Zero-Emission Trucks

August 18, 2023 Expert BlogUnited States, CaliforniaGuillermo A. Ortiz

Truck drivers face a hidden health crisis due to diesel exhaust emissions. Zero-emission trucks can safeguard drivers’ well-being while bringing positive changes to the industry and the planet.

IRA's Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund: A Game-Changing Finance Program

August 16, 2023 Expert BlogUnited StatesAdam Kent, Jessica Russo

EPA's Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund is set to catalyze billions in clean energy projects across the US, particularly in low-income and disadvantaged communities

Impact of Chicago’s Environmental Justice Executive Order

August 15, 2023 Expert BlogUnited States, IllinoisGina Ramirez

The executive order is the start of a new stage of work to enact community-led policy reforms in Chicago.

An Energy Standard That Also Limits Carbon

August 8, 2023 Expert BlogInternationalDr. David B. Goldstein

We now have a standard that limits carbon emissions from homes. ASHRAE Standard 90.2, Addendum f requires an accurate calculation of how much a home’s energy consumption increases global greenhouse gas emissions, and sets an upper limit to this metric…

Offshore Drilling: A Threat to Public Health

August 3, 2023 Expert BlogUnited StatesValerie Cleland

Fossil fuels are a dirty business. New studies illuminate the public health threat posed by the oil and gas industry.

The IRA Turns One: An Update on Buildings-Related Programs

July 31, 2023 Expert BlogWashington, D.C.Lauren Urbanek

The past year has been a busy one as federal agencies have begun the early stages of rolling out Inflation Reduction Act funds.

NYC’s New Pizza Oven Rule Will Protect Neighborhood Air Quality

July 31, 2023 Expert BlogUnited States, New York CityEric A. Goldstein

The law will target the emissions and other air pollution that come through people’s windows from nearby pizza restaurants.

California Climate & Energy Policy Update: Summer 2023

July 27, 2023 Expert BlogCaliforniaMerrian Borgeson, Michele Knab Hasson

California has made strides in reducing emissions, spurred by the increasingly devastating impacts of climate disruption communities across the globe.

India’s Air Pollution Challenge Spans Rural and Urban Areas

July 26, 2023 Expert BlogIndiaDr. Vijay Limaye

A new analysis of satellite data sheds light on air pollution levels nationwide.

The Senate Must Defend the Success of DOE Clean Energy Programs

July 19, 2023 Expert BlogWashington, D.C.Sangina Wright

The House’s Energy and Water bill contains harmful provisions for U.S. households, U.S. competitiveness in the global clean energy race, and our climate fight.