This letter also is available as a PDF file.

Hardcopy versions of the full report can be ordered from the the Global Change Research Information Office online catalog.

See also:

Press release (dated 20 September 2006)

To the Reader:

CCTP was created by the President in 2002-and subsequently authorized in the Energy Policy Act of 2005-to coordinate and prioritize the Federal Government's portfolio of investments in climate-related technology research, development, demonstration, and deployment (RDD&D). The portfolio totaled about $3 billion in Fiscal Year 2006.

The Plan expands on the themes presented in CCTP's Vision and Framework for Strategy and Planning. It provides the underpinnings for a robust RDD&D effort that can make advanced technologies available sooner and at a lower cost. It takes a century-long look at the nature of the climate change challenge and the potential for technological solutions across a range of uncertainties. Most anthropogenic greenhouse gases emitted over the course of the 21st century will come from equipment and infrastructure not yet built, a circumstance that poses significant opportunities to reduce or eliminate these emissions.

The technologies outlined in this Plan -- hydrogen, biorefining, clean coal, carbon sequestration, nuclear fission and fusion, advanced concepts in buildings, industry, transportation and electric energy storage and distribution, and others-have the potential to transform our economy in fundamental ways that can address not just climate change, but energy security, air quality, and other pressing needs.

The Plan articulates a vision of the role for advanced technologies, defines a supporting mission for the CCTP, establishes guiding principles for Federal R&D agencies to use in formulating R&D portfolios, outlines approaches to attain CCTP's strategic goals, and identifies a series of next steps toward implementation. We believe this Plan will strengthen the U.S. research enterprise and stimulate U.S. innovation and advance technology development in myriad ways. It is our hope that this Plan will inspire similar initiatives in other nations and enhance international collaboration on development and deployment of these technologies.

This document is the outcome of a long process involving governmental working groups, expert review, and a public comment period that stimulated thoughtful and energetic dialogue. It is our hope that with publication of the Plan, this dialogue will continue to inform and improve the Program.

The United States is working to ensure a bright and secure energy and economic future for our Nation and a healthy planet for future generations. Through a combination of near-term actions, enhanced scientific understanding of climate change, advanced technology development, and international cooperation, this future can become a reality.

Carlos M. Gutierrez Secretary of Commerce Chair, Committee on Climate Change Science and Technology Integration

Samuel W. Bodman Secretary of Energy Vice Chair, Committee on Climate Change Science and Technology Integration

John H. Marburger III, Ph.D. [PDF] Director, Office of Science and Technology Policy Executive Director, Committee on Climate Change Science and Technology Integration