VIRGINIA

With record-shattering oil prices, Virginia’s economy is facing some tough times. Dependence on oil and other fossil fuels is also leading to increased global warming.Facing the pressure of a slowing economy, we need solutions to climate change that will not only reduce our heat-trapping pollution, but also that will transform our economy and create jobs. In fact, our efforts to halt global warming would bring tremendous economic benefits. With a strong investment over ten years, the US economy will see 3.3 million new jobs. (i)

The costs of global warming-both economic and environmental-are simply too much to bear. Virginia’s 3,300 miles of coastline is home to centers of commerce and population, as well as countless historic sites. As sea levels rise due to global warming, coastal erosion and flooding threatens Virginia’s coastal communities. Furthermore, warming water temperatures in the Chesapeake Bay could increase the outbreak and spread of disease among economically important species, like the oyster. (ii)

At the root of our problems is our reliance on non-renewable energy sources. Currently Virginia relies on coal and nuclear to generate well over half the state’s energy.

By investing in the state’s tremendous potential to produce clean energy, we can reduce our dependence on polluting fossil fuels and create dependable, green jobs that put our economy back on track.

Virginia can generate 61% of its energy from clean, renewable sources! (iv)

Virginia has already taken action to combat climate change. In 2007, the state set a target of producing 22% of its energy from renewable sources, like wind, solar, biomass, geothermal, tides, and waves. (v)

The program, while a positive step, is only voluntary. We need strong leadership to continue the fight against global warming.

SOURCES:

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

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.pewclimate.org/what_s_being_done/in_the_states/rps.cfm