MONTANA

With record oil prices, Montana’s economy is hurting. Our dependence on oil and coal is also fueling global warming—which is having serious effects here at home. The economic costs in Montana will only get worse. But studies show that combating global warming will have tremendous economic benefits. With a strong investment in clean energy over ten years, the US economy will see 3.3 million new jobs. (i)

At the heart of our economic problems is our reliance on non-renewable fossil fuels. Today, Montana is heavily dependent on dirty-burning coal to supply its energy. (ii)

By investing in clean energy, Montana can create good jobs and move our economy forward.

Montana has the potential to produce 110 times the energy it needs through clean, renewable sources. (iii)

Montana is already making progress toward reducing its greenhouse gas emissions. In 2005, Montana took steps to mandate the 15% of its energy come from these renewable sources like solar, wind, geothermal, and other forward-thinking, clean technologies. (iv)

With this progress toward energy independence, now is the time to demand strong leadership to stop global warming.

SOURCES:

i. http://www.apolloalliance.org/downloads/resources_ApolloReport_022404_122748.pdf

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

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

iv. http://www.pewclimate.org/what_s_being_done/in_the_states/rps.cfm