Sierra Club CT reports that greenhouse gas emissions should be decreasing by now and need to be cut by almost half by 2030. This is to keep warming to 1.5 degrees C above pre-industrial levels.
In Connecticut, despite state law mandating greenhouse gas emission reductions of 45% by 2030 and 80% by 2050 to address the climate crisis, our state has failed to deliver on the necessary reductions. Our state is not oon track.
There are a number of environmental laws being considered! The legislature has until June 7 to act on a number of bills to help put us on track.
Sierra Club CT has made it easier. You can fill out one form:
Tell your state legislators to Keep CT's Climate Promise
Here is a quick summary of the bills:
—SB 1145 and HB 6397 will update the state’s climate law, the Global Warming Solutions Act, but both bills must be stronger.
—SB 1147 updates Connecticut Environmental Justice Law but also needs to do more to stop putting the worst burdens of air pollution and climate vulnerability on neighborhoods that are already dealing with more than their fair share.
—HB 5634, SB 961, SB 979, and SB 4 will increase investment in energy efficiency and improve energy standards for greener houses, schools and offices that cut both climate pollution and families' bills.
—SB 1083 will establish a carbon budget for transportation projects.
However, even after strengthening and passing these bills, much more must be done to confront the climate crisis. In addition to these bills, Connecticut must
—place a moratorium on new fossil fuel infrastructure
—prohibit fossil fuels in all new buildings and those under major renovation
—ban new fossil fuel appliances.
Otherwise we are simply digging ourselves into a bigger climate problem. Let your legislators know that you want them to keep their climate promises and support bills to confront the climate crisis. Personal messages have a big impact, please add your own personal message!
See complete Sierra CT email here.