This past Monday was the first of two public hearings on the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) global warming endangerment finding. It was a time for anyone to testify to the EPA about how the agency should take action on global warming since it is a threat to public health and welfare.
And boy, did we turn out the crowds! Hundreds of people gathered in Arlington, VA, for the first hearing -- and from all backgrounds: doctors, scientists, environmentalists, business owners, clergy and your everyday involved citizens concerned about the impacts of global warming.
The day was a huge success, and you can read all about it in this report on the Sierra Club's Compass blog.
Sad that you missed the hearing? Well if you live in Seattle, there's one tomorrow (Thursday, May 21). Sign up now to attend the big rally during the day.
And if you can't get to Seattle, then be sure to send your comments to the EPA telling them to take action on global warming.
Obama Administration Fights Global Warming with New Vehicle Regulations
Announced Tuesday, the Obama Administration enacted a new national vehicle tailpipe emissions standard and rules for higher fuel economy standards.
From a White House fact sheet:
"The proposed national autos program adopts uniform federal standards to regulate both fuel economy and greenhouse gas emissions while preserving the legal authorities of (the Department of Transportation), (the Environmental Protection Agency) and California. The program covers model year 2012 to model year 2016 and ultimately requires an average fuel economy standard of 35.5 mpg in 2016.
"The result is a projected reduction in oil consumption of approximately 1.8 billion barrels over the life of the program and a projected total reduction in greenhouse gas emissions of approximately 900 million metric tons. This groundbreaking policy is good for consumers, good for the auto industry and it helps our country by reducing pollution and promoting energy independence."
This is great news! Head over to our Big Picture website to learn more about the other steps the Obama Administration will be taking to get the U.S. to a clean energy future.