President Barack Obama makes an important address on climate change this afternoon, following up on the environmental emphasis of his second inaugural address. In a video announcement Saturday, Obama called global climate change “a serious challenge, but it's one uniquely suited to America's strengths."
According to the White House, Obama will outline his "vision for a comprehensive plan to reduce carbon pollution, prepare our country for the impacts of climate change, and lead global efforts to fight it." The plan is expected to include:
- Tougher efficiency standards for homes and appliances.
- More renewable energy development on public land.
- Emission rules for existing power plants.
- Recommendations for preparing the U.S. for the near-term impacts of climate change, including sea level rise, extreme weather, and drought.
Watch the speech live, beginning at 1:30 pm.