ILLINOIS

With energy and fuel prices rapidly on the rise, the economy of Illinois is suffering. Dependence on fossil fuels is also adding to global warming, a problem with far-reaching consequences here at home. Without action on global warming, Illinois could lose 56,579 jobs. (i)

Economic losses are just one of the threats that Illinois faces. With a changing climate, corn could see a drop in yields by as much as 32% by 2100. Additionally, an increase in summer rainfall as high as 70% could drastically change flooding patterns in the state. (ii)

The cause of our economic and environmental problems is the reliance on non-renewable sources of energy. Illinois currently relies heavily on coal as an energy source. (iii)

With a commitment to clean renewable energy, Illinois can create new jobs while fighting global warming.

Illinois has the ability to meet 154% of its energy needs with renewable energy. This translates into a plethora of new jobs for residents. (iv)

Illinois has made strides in the fight against global warming. Illinois is part of the Midwest Greenhouse Gas Reduction Initiative, which requires member states to set timetables for global warming pollution reduction goals, to implement a cap and trade system for emissions, and to join the Climate Registry of greenhouse gas emissions. (v)

However, further action must be taken if we are to win the battle against climate change. All we need is leadership to get us started.

SOURCES:

i. http://www.bluegreenalliance.org/site/c.enKIITNpEiG/b.3417259/

ii. http://www.nextgenerationearth.org/usstates/statelist/

iii. http://getenergyactive.org/fuel/state.htm

iv. http://www.ucsusa.org/assets/documents/clean_energy/Plugging_In_Renewable_Energy.pdf

v. http://www.midwesternaccord.org/midwesterngreenhousegasreductionaccord.pdf