By Jeff Gahris
With the planet hitting record temperatures, there is much reason to be concerned. As a reader of this newsletter, you have probably thought into what to do next. Years ago, I had conversations with two Environmental Protection Agency colleagues about climate change, and was surprised to hear they either questioned the reality of climate change, or said it was a problem for our grandchildren. That provoked some thought and research on my part. Mine began with research, only to see the problem was both real and concerning. On an individual level, it helps to convert concern or anxiety about the climate into concrete action.
Here’s a checklist
on how we can “move the needle” for making progress at home and in our broader
community.
(1) Electrify
our homes! This can be a tough one, but ditching the hazardous gas stove is a
great way to start, or at least use an efficient and affordable induction countertop
cooker for many everyday cooking tasks. You will find great resources here, https://homes.rewiringamerica.org/ The federal Inflation Reduction Act (IRA)
offers significant incentives, and millions of households are taking advantage.
(2) Go
solar. Thanks to the IRA and the state’s Climate and Equitable Jobs Act, the
cost of solar is surprisingly low for homeowners with access to suitable rooftops.
Community solar is available for those who don’t have a good roof.
(3) Get
active. We’ve made great progress in Illinois, but we still have a way to go to
assure a beneficial and just transition to a clean energy economy. Sierra Club’s
Illinois Chapter is a leading member of the Illinois Clean Jobs Coalition (ICJC),
which supports the following
legislation:
· Clean and Reliable Electric Grid Act,
SB3637
· Clean and Equitable Transportation
· Clean and Healthy Buildings
See ILJC Platform.
These are
complicated issues, but your engagement with your state elected representatives
will make a difference! Take action using our on-line petition.
No comments:
Post a Comment