Toward a New Climate Network: Transatlantic Solutions for a Low Carbon Economy

by Arnold Schwarzenegger

Protecting our environment is one of my top priorities, and combating climate change requires collaboration with many levels of government. I am proud of the valuable contributions that our state has made to this goal, including our cities and counties that have shown tremendous leadership. California has also worked with other states, Canadian provinces, our federal government, and other nations on this important issue. In partnership, we can make a positive difference in the fight against climate change.

The United States and Europe have always been great friends, and by taking action together, we can enhance our efforts to preserve our environment and boost our economies. Through the exchange of innovative technologies, policies and more, we can lead the way and encourage our mutual growth.

Great progress has been made at all levels of government to tackle climate change. In 2008, I invited other governors to join me in co-hosting the Governors’ Global Climate Summit, which aimed to build on the advancements that have been made by states and provinces throughout the world. Then in 2009, California again hosted delegates from around the globe to broaden the cooperative efforts to preserve our environment and pump up commerce. However, there is still work to be done, and it is through teamwork that we can make new progress. Now is the time to move forward together.

Additionally, I applaud the Heinrich Böll Foundation for this outstanding project. They have long recognized the need for our world community to unite in order to protect our planet and stimulate a sustainable economy.

Download the full report (524 KB, 51 pages)

Table of Contents

Toward a New Climate Network: Transatlantic Solutions for a Low Carbon Economy

Foreword by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, State of California Download the Foreword (249 KB, 4 pages)

Introduction by Barbara Assheuer, Marc Berthold, Arne Jungjohann, Roderick Kefferpütz and Till  Kötter Download the Introduction (268 KB, 8 pages)

I The Local Level…

…from a U.S. Perspective:
Looking Beyond Copenhagen: Sub-National Governments as Transformers of Energy, Climate and Transatlantic Policies, by Dale Medearis, Ph.D. Senior Environmental Planner, Northern Virginia Regional Commission Download the article (264 KB, 9 pages)

…from a European Perspective:
Local Bridges-The Transatlantic Dimension of European Climate and Energy Policy, by Maryke van Staden, Coordinator of ICLEI’s European Cities for Climate Protection Campaign, ICLEI-Local Governments for Sustainability, European Secretariat Download the article (263 KB, 9 pages)

II The State Level…

… from a European Perspective:
Tackling Climate Change- The Role of Germany’s States, by Bärbel Höhn, Vice-Chair of the Green Party group in the German Parliament Download the article (265 KB, 8 pages)

…from a U.S. Perspective:
California’s Climate Plan-A Blue Print for International Action, by Mary Nichols, Chairman of the California Air Resources Board Download the article (263 KB, 9 pages)

III The Federal and International Level…

…from a U.S. Perspective:
Toward a New Climate Treaty- Opportunities for Progress under President Obama, by John D. Podesta, President and CEO of the Center for American Progress Download the article (274 KB, 9 pages)

…from a European Perspective:
Refocusing Europe's Leadership Role in Climate Change- Upcoming Challenges before and beyond Copenhagen, by Reinhard Bütikofer, Member of the European Parliament and Vice Chairman of the Group of the Greens/European Free Alliance Download the article (263 KB, 9 pages)

The Final Report was released at a conference on October 7, 2009.