CLIMATE BILL MAKES ITS WAY TO SENATE FLOOR
Congress sends strong signal to U.S. negotiators on climate policy

The U.S. Senate made history last week—it was the first time a bill to significantly limit U.S. global warming pollution has been passed out of committee and sent to the full Senate for discussion. The bipartisan legislation, America’s Climate Security Act of 2007 (S. 2191; also known as the Lieberman-Warner bill), was approved by the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee after more than ten hours of amendments and hearings.

The bill would limit global warming pollution by placing a "cap" or limit on emissions and establish aggressive short term emissions reduction targets. The bill would also provide significant public benefits from funds generated by auctioning emissions permits to polluting companies. The funds would be used to develop clean technologies and aid low-income Americans in paying their rising energy bills.

While Congress is finally signaling its intention to reduce global warming pollution, U.S. negotiators in Bali represent the only industrialized nation opposing mandatory worldwide cuts in emissions. Officials from 190 countries met in Bali over the past two weeks to begin framing climate policy that matches the urgency of scientific recommendations.

NEW REPORT MAKES STRONG ARGUMENT FOR U.S. ACTION
Why America must lead the world in reducing global warming pollution

A report released this week by the National Environmental Trust highlights why the United States has the responsibility to make significant reductions in our contribution to global warming, and there are more than 50 good reasons.

According to the report, Taking Responsibility, every state in the nation has a carbon footprint greater than many developing countries. The United States alone is responsible for nearly one-third of the cumulative pollution that is warming the earth. European countries grouped together are responsible for another third, while all developing countries combined, including China and India, account for the remaining 23 percent. While all countries must commit to reducing pollution, the responsibility to lead emissions reductions lies with those countries that have contributed most to the problem.

CLOSE TO HOME According to the report, Minnesota ranks 21st among states for its contribution to global warming pollution. Minnesota’s annual cumulative global warming pollution measures in at a hefty 101 million metric tons (MMT), translating to 19.35 MMT per million people in the state. In contrast, China emits only 2.4 MMT per million people.

WHAT YOU CAN DO
Thank Governor Pawlenty for stepping up to the plate

Last month, governors of six Midwestern states signed a landmark agreement that puts our region on the path toward significant reductions in global warming pollution. The agreement—signed by the governors of Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Iowa, Michigan, and Kansas—establishes a planning process by which the Midwest will develop and institute a carbon capping program as well as a host of other emissions reduction strategies.

Fresh Energy urges you to thank Governor Pawlenty for his commitment to this important regional agreement. Please urge the governor to continue to support policies both in Minnesota and in the region that will achieve the emissions reductions targets established. As Minnesota’s emissions continue to increase, now is the time when real reductions in emissions count more than commitments.

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Fresh Energy works daily for smart energy policies and regulations that enhance our economies, protect human health and communities, restore our environment, and move us toward energy independence. www.fresh-energy.org