In October the State of Washington will implement a program to require reduction of Green House Gas (GHG) emissions. The State Department of Ecology issued a new rule last week requiring a gradual reduction in emissions for those who, starting with 2017, emit 100,000 metric tons or more of carbon…
Articles Posted in State and Local Plans
Copenhagen Climate Change Adaptation Plan
The city of Copenhagen has developed a comprehensive plan to address short and medium range impacts of Climate Change. From green roofs to streets that divert storm water the City has developed a comprehensive plan to address the impacts of global warming. The plan lists some the key considerations in…
USDA to Establish Hubs to Assist Farmers With Climate Change Adaptation
The U. S. Department of Agriculture is establishing seven regional Hubs to assist farmers and forest owners with climate change adaptation and mitigation. According to the USDA site: “These hubs are needed to maintain and strengthen agricultural production, natural resource management, and rural economic development under increasing climate variability.” The…
Green Buildings May Receive Tax Exemption Under New York Law
New York adopted a law in July that provides for local implementation of tax exemptions for improvements to property, in excess of ten thousand dollars, that obtain LEED(R) certification or meet a similar standard, based upon adoption of a local law implementing such a provision. To be eligible the construction…
New York Climate Smart Communities Program
New York has implemented a Climate Smart Communities program to help reduce Greenhouse Gases (GHGs). The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Website link describes this program as follows: “Climate Smart Communities is an unprecedented partnership between New York State and local communities. Its goal is to lower…
New York State Climate Action Plan Interim Report
New York Governor Paterson announced the release of the New York State Climate Action Plan Interim Report this week. The
California’s Plan For A Clean Energy Future
The California Public Utilities Commission has released a plan called “California’s Clean Energy Future,” setting goals for the year 2020. One of the most interesting goals is “enough charging stations at home, work, and in public areas to accommodate one million electric and hybrid vehicles.” Many people have noted that…
City of New Rochelle Releases Proposed Green Sustainability Plan
New Rochelle New York has scheduled a hearing on its proposed “GreeNR” Sustainabilty Plan. The Plan, developed over the last year, proposes a series of short term, medium term and long term goals. Among the highlights of the Plan are a series of goals for the year 2030 listed in…
Oregon Governor Signs Package of Seven Climate Change Laws
On July 22, 2009 the Governor of Oregon signed seven laws, all dealing with issues related to climate change. In a press release the governor’s office summarized the new laws as follows: “Senate Bill 38- Expands reporting requirements for greenhouse gas emissions to imported electricity, natural gas, and transportation fuel…
New Hampshire Climate Action Plan
The Governor of New Hampshire has issued a Climate Action Plan. The 82 page plan seeks to implement a program that will result in a reduction of greenhouse gas emissions to 90 percent below 1990 levels by 2050. The recommendations contained in the plan include: “1. Maximize energy efficiency in…