Be Mindful of the Interdependencies Between Water, Energy and Climate Change
December 19, 2008
One of President Obama’s priorities should be comprehensive policymaking that is mindful of the various interdependencies between water, energy and climate change. As we have recently learned, some energy policies and technologies being touted as a means to reduce carbon emissions and mitigate climate change have adverse impacts on our nation’s water resources. Sandia National Laboratories has been studying the energy-water nexus for several years, and the release of its much-delayed “Energy-Water Roadmap Report” was initially slated for early 2007. If not released prior to his taking office, President Obama should ensure that this roadmap finds its way to Congress.