Report highlights global warming solutions
State, federal leaders urged to cap pollution
This summer, Wisconsin Environment released “Global Warming Solutions That Work,” a new report that details many cutting-edge policies and practices that communities, states and countries are using to reduce global warming pollution.
Global warming presents a major threat to the Great Lakes and to Wisconsin’s farms and wildlife. And the extreme rainfall and flooding we’ve seen this summer are expected to increase unless we act to reduce global warming emissions.
“Global warming is the defining challenge of our time,” said Dan Kohler, director of Wisconsin Environment. “The latest climate science tells us that we need to reduce global warming pollution quickly and dramatically if we hope to avoid the most catastrophic effects of global warming.”
Wisconsin Environment will be using this research to help shape debate in Wisconsin’s Legislature during the 2009-2010 legislative session. The report also helps to support our call for policies to limit global warming pollution—policies that are currently being considered by Gov. Doyle’s Global Warming Task Force.
A chance for Wisconsin to lead the way
“Wisconsin is well positioned to be a leader in the fight against global warming because we are already producing and using renewable energy,” said Sen. Pat Kreitlow of Eau Claire.
The report cites Wisconsin’s Focus on Energy program—which helps individuals and businesses invest in energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies—as a model policy. Focus on Energy has saved enough electricity to cut 200,000 metric tons of carbon emissions annually.
“As a small business owner, I know that we can protect our environment and grow our economy,” said Chad Speight, owner of Chad’s Carpentry and member of the Monona City Council. “State policies that promote global warming solutions can help my customers install renewable energy and high-efficiency technologies, save them money, and grow our businesses.”
In the coming months, Wisconsin Environment will be urging state leaders to take the next steps by joining other states that have adopted a cap on global warming pollution and by continuing to support Wisconsin’s clean energy economy.
Wisconsin Environment’s Matt Kendo—joined by Sen. Pat Kreitlow (inside right), Rep. Jeff Smith (far right) and others—discusses our new global warming report with the press.
