Curb Global Warming Pollution

Burning fossil fuels pollutes the air with the carbon dioxide that causes climate change.  Scientists expect the seas to rise as much as 20 inches by 2100. Rhode Island has 400 miles of densely populated shoreline, and our $3 billion tourist industry depends heavily on our beaches.

Eight northeastern states have signed on to the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) to cut global warming pollution from power plants. RGGI would not only cut pollution from plants, but it would also cut our electricity costs through investments in energy efficiency. Rhode Island and Massachusetts are the only regional states that have not signed on to the plan. Clean Water Action urges Gov. Carcieri to join RGGI.

Stop Diesel Pollution

Exhaust from diesel vehicles can contain lung irritants, including more than 40 air toxics, carcinogens, and fine particulate matter (or soot). These tiny particles are inhaled deep in the lungs, where they can trigger asthma and heart attacks.

While new diesel engines are required to be 90% cleaner, our older, dirtier diesels will be on the road for years, unless we act now. Clean Water Action supports the Diesel Pollution Initiative’s call for a 75% reduction in diesel emissions by 2015 and for retrofitting old, dirty engines to prevent diesel pollution

Prevent Toxic Electronic Trash

Computers and televisions contain lead, mercury, cadmium and other toxics. These toxics are known to cause birth defects, damage kidneys, and harm the nervous system. In Rhode Island alone, over 4 million computers, televisions, and monitors will become trash by 2011.
Clean Water Action supports legislation to require manufacturers to pay for collecting and safely recycling discarded electronic equipment.

Protect Rhode Island’s Water Supply

Rhode Island’s water use is outgrowing our reserves. Since water is a public good, the public sector must manage supply and demand and protect the land surrounding water sources.

Clean Water Action supports a coordinated water management system that would provide incentives and regulations to reduce non-essential water use, protect the environment, and coordinate the agencies that manage water supply. We advocate a water system with sufficient management capacity to protect natural resources and enough flexibility to accommodate future growth.


  
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