The world has woken bleary-eyed and expectant to a new era in worldwide politics with the election of President Barack Obama. Backed from the beginning by many high profile environmental organisations, Obama has been seen throughout his campaign as the greener candidate. But what are his environmental policies, and do they have the potential to change the world for the better?
Follow the jump for a few factoids on Obama's green vision
• Obama on climate change
Obama has made addressing climate change a core element of his candidacy from the start, and during his acceptance speech, made reference to his responsibility to our 'planet in peril'. Obama supports strong greenhouse-gas reducing targets that would aim to cut emissions in the US by 80% by 2050 (vs. McCain's 60%) and when asked to rank energy, healthcare and social security in order of importance, Obama did not hesitate to name energy as his number one priority.
• Obama on biofuels
Having historically been a strong supporter of biofuels, Obama has already been put under pressure by green groups and his own advisers to rethink his policies on the controversial issue that some have blamed for escalating global food prices. Currently, Obama is planning to deploy a $150 billion fund towards developing biofuels with large subsidies for farmers growing the crops, and it's uncertain whether he'll be swayed on this issue. Without a significant u-turn on his current position, it looks certain to cause friction between the president-elect and his green supporters.
• Obama on drilling
Obama opposes drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, the conservation area where George W Bush controversially overturned a ban on drilling for oil earlier this year.
• Obama on Nuclear
Obama does not oppose nuclear energy, but believes it cannot be ruled out as an option. Unlike McCain who would have actively sought to expand the nuclear sector, Obama sees it as one component in a wider energy mix and will not aggressively persue new nucelar options. He believes it is needed to reach current climate goals, and has stated his determination to seek out safe, long‐term disposal solutions based on objective, scientific analysis
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