SCIENCE AND IMPACTS
Warmest winter on record worldwide

The global average temperature was the warmest on record for the December 2006–February 2007 period, says the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). That announcement comes just a month after the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change said global warming is “very likely” caused by human activities. NOAA’s report said that during the past century, global temperatures increased by about 0.11 degrees F per decade, but the rate of increase has been three times larger since 1976 (0.32 degrees F per decade).

BUSINESS IN ACTION
Auto execs say "yes" to mandatory global warming regulations

Executives from Ford, Chrysler, GM, and Toyota recently testified before the House Energy and Air Quality Subcommittee hearing, "Climate Change and Energy Security: Perspectives from the Automobile Industry." When asked if their companies would accept global warming regulations through a mandatory program, all said yes, with some caveats including stipulation that the program is economy-wide, including all vehicles (not just cars and trucks) and power plants. More details, including a video webcast and prepared testimony, can be found on the Energy and Commerce Committee website.

Fresh Energy and its allies in Clean Energy Minnesota are working hard to advance the Global Warming Mitigation Act (SF 192, HF 375). This legislation requires Minnesota to take immediate action to reduce global warming pollution.

The bill has moved through two policy committees in the Minnesota House of Representatives and is poised for a vote on the floor of the House early this spring. The Senate Energy, Utilities, Technologies and Communications Committee has taken testimony on the bill and should vote within the next two weeks. Do your elected representatives know you want them to support this important bill?

WHAT YOU CAN DO
Step It Up!

On April 14, tens of thousands of Americans will Step It Up and join their neighbors at local rallies to push Congress to slow global warming. All around the country, the call to action will be the same: Congress must pass legislation calling for 80 percent cuts in global warming emissions by the year 2050.

Fresh Energy is co-sponsoring Global Warming Day of Action with Sierra Club - North Star Chapter at the State Capitol Mall in St. Paul on April 14 from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Please join us for speakers, live music, education, and action! If you can't make it to the Capitol, check out the Step It Up website to find an event near you.

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Fresh Energy is a nonprofit organization leading the transition to a clean energy system. One that supports the health of our economies, our people, and our environment while moving us toward energy independence. www.fresh-energy.org