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The November election has set the stage for Colorado to move forward in ways that did not seem possible a year ago.
Historically, the environment has not been a big issue with the Colorado electorate. All of that has changed. In the November 2006 election, renewable energy and the new energy economy were some of Gov. Bill Ritter’s top priorities. Water, global warming, forest protection and clean air also played prominently in the governor’s campaign. In state legislative races, renewable energy and other environmental issues were also top-tier issues.
To capitalize on this mood, Environment Colorado launched our New Energy Future campaign. The campaign called for Colorado to double the Amendment 37 renewable energy goals, set energy-saving targets to increase energy efficiency, and increase the use biofuels like biodiesel. Almost half of the Legislature endorsed The Plan.
The new legislative session starts in January and Environment Colorado has an aggressive agenda focusing on energy, land use and open space, global warming and clean water.
The top priority for our energy work will be doubling the Amendment 37 renewable energy goals. In addition, Program Director Will Coyne will work to pass energy efficiency legislation and develop the infrastructure to increase wind development on the eastern plains of Colorado. Emily Francis, our solar energy advocate, will work to increase solar programs throughout the state.
Pam Kiely, our land use advocate, will be working to increase the ability of the state to protect habitat and preserve open space. Her work will include increasing the current funds that are used to purchase open space and protect wildlife habitat.
On global warming, Environment Colorado will work with the Ritter administration to develop a state goal of reducing carbon emissions 80 percent by 2050. Our global warming solutions advocate, Isaac Silverman, will be working with the administration to set strong carbon reduction goals.
Finally, we are adding a water quality program. Clean Water Advocate Stephanie Thomas will be working to beef up inspections and enforcement by the Water Quality Control Division.
These elections showed us that the stage is set for real change. From all my years working to protect and improve Colorado’s environment, I know these opportunities are rare.
But I’ve also learned something working with politicians for all these years—you need to strike while the iron is hot.
We are optimistic we can implement this aggressive agenda and as always, thank you for your continued support. |
