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Environment America and the Public Interest Network’s PIRG are working on several campaigns to ensure that the country’s policies and practices create a cleaner, safer, and better world for all of us. This monthly newsletter highlights recent good news on the environmental front, both from the work we do and beyond. If you have any suggestions or comments, please email Arielle Ostry ([email protected]) or Josh Chetwynd ([email protected]).
Bipartite infrastructure agreement passed in US Senate
After much debate and several weeks of failed “infrastructure” in previous years, the US Senate negotiated a $ 550 billion infrastructure package, which, if passed by the House, will include major investments in transportation, clean water and energy. The House is expected to vote in September.
In a vote of 69 to 30, the Senate adopted the Law on investment in infrastructure and employment. Among other provisions, the bill provides funds to remove lead from our drinking water, reconnect wildlife habitats and clean up Superfund sites.
“This historic investment will leave our country healthier, stronger and more resilient”, US PIRG President Doug Phelps said of the deal. “We look forward to his passing and the hard but necessary work to find common ground on solutions to more of America’s problems.”
Celebrating the first anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act
August 4 marked a milestone celebrated by many environmentalists and conservation advocates. The day meant a year since the Great American Outdoors Act became law. In doing so, he secured permanent funding for the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) and ensured that an additional $ 9.5 billion over five years was allocated to updating the infrastructure of US public lands. .
In honor of this day, Environment America staff across the country posted about their favorite keepsakes from local, state and national parks. They also thanked Congress for this essential funding to preserve the country’s public lands.
“A year after being proclaimed, the Great American Outdoors Act was a landslide victory for the lands, wildlife and communities of the United States. said conservationist Alex Peterson. “This one-of-a-kind conservation law has enabled us to protect threatened habitats and ensure public access to our country’s breathtaking natural treasures.
California Energy Commission votes in favor of solar requirements
California Energy Commission (CEC) voted unanimously last month to advance solar and energy storage requirements for new commercial buildings and high-rise multi-family buildings. These requirements will help the state meet its clean energy goals.
With this decision, California’s commitment to rooftop solar growth is reinforced at a pivotal time. Currently, the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) is considering whether or not to significant cuts to the government’s net metering program, a key policy that compensates owners of solar panels for the excess energy they contribute to the electricity grid.
“California has been a national leader in rooftop solar power for some time,” said Bronte Payne, Director of the Solar Campaign for Environment America Go. “It was done through a commitment to smart policies and this CEC plan is another example of this forward thinking. This approval helps California take a big step forward in meeting its clean energy goals. “
What else we celebrate:
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The development of oil concessions slows down in the Arctic refuge: the Ministry of the Interior announced last month that he would conduct a new environmental review on the impact of oil drilling on the coastal plain of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. The review will take into account the effect of drilling on native species such as polar bears and caribou as well as the impact these activities will have on land and climate change.
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South Fork Wind Project Passes Federal Environmental Review: An offshore wind project, planned off the coasts of Long Island in New York and Block Island, Rhode Island, has passed its environmental review. This moves the wind farm towards final approval scheduled for October. Once operational, the project will produce up to 132 megawatts, enough energy to power 70,000 homes and businesses in New York State.
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Make way for wildlife: More than 600,000 miles of fencing covering the American West and blocking animals like mule deer, which must migrate seasonally, will be removed. This summer, Absaroka Fence Initiative volunteers began this process, starting with remove these barriers in Wyoming outside of Yellowstone.
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Governor Murphy signs Bill NJ C-PACE: A new program that will encourage New Jersey businesses to embrace and embrace renewable energy technologies and promote climate and power resilience became law this month. In response, New Jersey State Environment Director Doug O’Malley said: “C-PACE is the most popular energy efficiency program you have never heard of, and it will have a huge impact on turbo green funding for energy efficiency investments. ”
Are you looking for even more inspiring environmental content?
Environment America also has our Greener together project. The project aims to help all of us foster a stronger connection with the natural world and with each other. The initiative includes engaging events, fun activities and helpful guides for adults and children.
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Environment America is a national network with affiliates in 29 states. Our staff and members work to protect the places we love, advance the environmental values we share and achieve real results for our environment.
US PIRG, the Federation of State Public Interest Research Groups, is a consumer group that opposes powerful interests whenever they threaten our health and safety, financial security, or our right to fully participate. to our democratic society.
US PIRG and Environment America are part of the Public Interest Network, which operates and supports organizations committed to a shared vision for a better world and a strategic approach to getting things done.
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