California adopts tough new greenhouse gas restrictions
California adopts tough new greenhouse gas restrictions
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – California air regulators adopted a sweeping new climate plan Thursday that would require the state’s utilities, refineries and large factories to transform their operations to cut greenhouse gas emissions.
At the heart of the plan is the creation of a carbon-credit market designed to give the state’s major polluters cheaper ways to cut the amount of their emissions.
Republican Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, said the state’s climate law will stimulate the economy. “Today is the day we help unleash the full force of California’s innovation and technology for a healthier planet, a stronger and more robust economy and a safer and more secure energy future”. His sentiments echo those of President-elect Barack Obama, who also has promoted investments in energy efficiency and green technology to help spur the country out of recession.
An air board analysis published in September projected California’s economy would grow at a faster rate by cutting emissions. It also estimated 100,000 more jobs would be created and the average California household would save $400 a year by driving more fuel-efficient vehicles and living in more energy-efficient homes.
But allowing businesses to buy their way out of the problem is another contentious part of the plan. Representatives of California’s poor communities say the polluting power plants, refineries and factories in their neighborhoods could write a check rather than cut emissions.
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