President Obama’s Climate Plan a Clear Victory for Future Generations

Environment Connecticut

Hartford, CT – Today, President Obama will announce a climate plan that sets limits on carbon pollution from power plants, advances energy efficiency and increases the nation’s commitment to renewable energy. In the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, Storm Irene, and the blizzard of February 2013, the president’s plan to address global warming was applauded by Environment Connecticut.
 
“Today President Obama is responding to the millions of Americans who have spoken out on behalf of their communities and their families, urging him to lead on climate,” said Chris Phelps, Environment Connecticut Campaign Director. “All of us who have felt the effects of global warming, or simply worried about what’s in store for our kids, can take comfort in knowing that President Obama is putting the nation on a path toward a cleaner, healthier and safer future.”

Left unchecked, global warming is projected to bring effects such as more intense storms to Connecticut. Scientists have warned that the window is rapidly closing for making the necessary cuts in carbon pollution to protect future generations from the worst consequences of global warming.  

To respond to this threat, the president’s plan contains several key components. It will:

  • Limit carbon pollution from new and existing power plants. The president directed the Environmental Protection Agency to set limits on carbon pollution from new and existing power plants, which currently lack any such federal limits despite being the largest single source of the carbon pollution fueling global warming.
  • Invest in energy efficiency. New efficiency measures for buildings and new appliances will cut carbon pollution by reducing our overall energy demand.
  • Build more renewable energy. The plan focuses on expanding production of clean, renewable energy sources like wind and solar, especially on public lands.
  • Support affected communities. The president’s plan will help ensure that communities are better equipped to prepare for and recover from the impacts of global warming.
  • Rebuild U.S. leadership Internationally. The president’s plan calls for the U.S. to actively engage in international efforts to address global warming.

Environment Connecticut offered special praise for the president’s pledge to cut carbon pollution from existing power plants. More than 3.2 million Americans submitted public comments last year in support of the president setting limits on carbon pollution from power plants.
 
“Carbon pollution from power plants is a huge part of the global warming problem. Today President Obama acknowledges this and maps out a plan for cleaning up this pollution,” said Phelps. “We also know that this plan is just one important step in a multi-year effort, and that the proof of its success will be in the pudding.”

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