Critical Minerals Research Lab Conference: June 26–27 Virtual Event

As the world shifts towards clean energy, understanding the complexities of critical minerals has become more important than ever. The upcoming virtual conference hosted by Resources for the Future (RFF) on June 26-27 offers a platform for exploration of these vital topics. At this event, PhD students from the Critical Minerals Research Lab will share their insights on the impacts of mining, sustainability, and innovative extraction methods. Experts from academia, policy, and industry will guide discussions following each presentation. Register for the event.

Examining Energy Futures with the Southern Ute Indian Tribe

In an effort to navigate the evolving energy sector, the Southern Ute Indian Tribe, heavily reliant on natural gas and oil, has collaborated with RFF research experts. This partnership, detailed in a new working paper by Daniel Raimi, Brian C. Prest, and Alexandra Thompson, explores various energy development strategies. Their research emphasizes balancing clean energy initiatives with traditional fossil fuel resources to provide the tribe with affordable and stable energy access. Learn more about this collaboration.

Redefining Pollution Markets for Better Health Outcomes

Air pollution remains a leading environmental health hazard, and traditional policies often fall short by regulating pollutants individually. RFF researchers Justin Kakeu, Ethan Ziegler, and Brandon Holmes propose a novel approach in their latest issue brief, advocating for a comprehensive regulation of multiple pollutants simultaneously. This strategy, known as dose addition, could more accurately address how pollutants interact, leading to marked improvements in air quality and public health. Further details can be found in their detailed exploration of pollution markets.

Alleviating Energy Insecurity with Rooftop Solar

Rising electricity costs are a significant burden for many U.S. households, with one in four facing energy insecurity. A recent discussion on Resources Radio highlighted how rooftop solar technology might offer some relief. Madeline Yozwiak from Indiana University Bloomington noted, “We find that households that have rooftop solar are more likely to be able to pay their electricity bill. They’re less likely to be disconnected.” This shift not only helps lower costs but also enhances energy accessibility. Discover more from the full discussion here.

Air Purifiers in Schools: A Breath of Fresh Air

Poor air quality is known to increase school absences, impacting children's education. A study by the RFF-CMCC European Institute on Economics and the Environment examined the effects of portable air purifiers in Milan's classrooms, a city notorious for high pollution levels. The findings suggest substantial improvements in air quality and reduced absenteeism, underscoring the effectiveness of air purifiers in educational settings. Read more about the study's insights here.