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these really big effects over time." It's an 'overestimate' The social cost of carbon is used in the cost - benefit analysis of some federal regulations. If the impact of emissions is deemed expensive for society, it could justify more aggressive policies to reduce their release by industry. Opponents of climate action criticized the Obama administration for raising the social cost of carbon in 2013 by almost 50 percent. William Pizer, a Duke University professor and former Obama administration official who has worked on the estimate, applauded the Stanford researchers for applying updated observations into their carbon estimates. He and several other former Obama advisers say the administration should improve its use of updated science when establishing the price. But Pizer also questioned the methodology of the Stanford analysis. The empirical research it relied on tracked short -term temperature spikes and their impacts on nations' economies -- not long -term trends that might show permanent economic reductions. "To me, it just seems like it has to be an overestimate," Pizer said of the Stanford result of $220. "I think it's great they're doing this," he added. "I just think this is another data point that someone needs to weigh as they're trying to figure out what the right social cost of carbon is. But this isn't like a definitive new answer." Moore acknowledged the uncertainties in her research. For example, she noted that there's not enough evidence to know if climate change will continue to have outsized impacts on poorer countries or if as their economies grow they'll be able to adapt and decrease their damage. A grimmer outcome consists of "biophysical temperature thresholds" -- the idea that the heat will prevent large economic advances. Both scenarios effect the speed and aggressiveness with which emissions should be reduced -- and the price of their social cost of carbon. Moore hopes the new research will help inform the administration that a larger spectrum of damages should be considered when establishing the monetary estimate. Cli ate Wire is written and produced by the staff of E &E Publishing, L.L.C. It is designed to provide comprehensive, daily coverage of all aspects of climate change issues. From international agreements can carbon emissions to alternative energy technologies to state and federal GHG programs, Climate Wire plugs readers into the information they need to stay abreast of this sprawling, complex issue. E &E Publishing, LLC 122 C St. NW, Ste. 722, Wash., D.C. 20001 Phone: 202-628-6500 Fax: 202-737-5299 www.eenews.net