"One has to wonder if these projects would be considered viable alternatives today if hundreds of millions had not already been invested."
--Duane Jasheway, analyst for the Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor, on the new $4.4 billion Prairie State coal plant
In this issue:
1) Take Action: Support Livable Communities
2) Take Action: Demand Toxic Coal Ash Safeguards
3) Oil: New Moratorium on Deepwater Drilling
4) Check it Out: New Sierra Sportsmen Site
1) Take Action: Support Livable Communities
The BP oil disaster in the Gulf is a tragic reminder that America must end our oil addiction. Transportation is the number one use of oil in the United States, in large part due to our sprawling communities and lack of convenient low-carbon transportation options such as transit, walking or biking. The Livable Communities Act, introduced by Senator Dodd (D-CT), would invest in local projects that create affordable housing, provide convenient low-carbon transportation options, and improve public health.
Last week we asked you to contact your Representative, and this week we want to increase the pressure. Will you write a letter to the editor today asking your Senator to co-sponsor the Livable Communities Act and help end our dependence on oil?
Write a letter today!
2) Take Action: Demand Toxic Coal Ash Safeguards
Years of scientific research prove that coal ash, a byproduct of burning coal, is hazardous and becoming increasingly toxic. Containing dangerous pollution like arsenic, lead and mercury, coal ash poses serious threats to the people living near the thousands of coal ash dumps nationwide -- increasing the risk of cancer, learning disabilities, birth defects and other illnesses. Yet this toxic waste is currently less strictly managed than household garbage.
Tell EPA that strong, federally enforceable standards are needed to protect Americans!
3) Oil: New Moratorium on Deepwater Drilling
The Obama administration yesterday announced a renewed ban on deepwater oil drilling in the Gulf of Mexico. The moratorium is part of an effort by the Administration to protect the Gulf Coast communities, water and wildlife that have already been devastated by the BP disaster.
An earlier ban on deepwater drilling has been held up in the courts by the oil industry, which is still pushing for more risky drilling.
4) Check it Out: New Sierra Sportsmen Site
Plan to spend some time outside this summer? Maybe do a little fishing?
Before you head out, pay a visit to the new Sierra Sportsmen social network to find the hot spots near you, where to get your fishing license, what you can do to protect our nation’s waters and much, much more.