California is expected to dramatically reduce emissions of greenhouse gases following an order from the governor's office.
The new directive is designed to lead the nation's most-populous state to a 40 percent reduction in state-generated emissions by the year 2030.
Jerry Brown, governor of the Golden State, issued the executive order on April 29, which only applies to government agencies and organizations.
"With this order, California sets a very high bar for itself and other states and nations, but it's one that must be reached — for this generation and generations to come," Brown said.
The reductions in greenhouse gases are similar to those already adopted by many foreign nations. The 28 members of the European Union agreed in October 2013 to an equivalent goal. The state was already under a self-imposed directive to cut back greenhouse gas emissions to 1990 levels after the passage of AB32 in 2007.
The reduction mandated by the order is based on reducing levels below the baseline level recorded in 1990. The goal of a 40 percent reduction in greenhouse emissions is designed to make an 80 percent reduction by 2050 more feasible. Many climatologists believe that an increase of 3.6 degrees Fahrenheit or greater above preindustrial levels could result in severe environmental damage.
The order directs state agencies to set targets of reducing greenhouse gases to meet the new goals. It also calls on The California Natural Resources Agency to deliver a report once every three years detailing progress the state has made toward reaching the environmental goals outlined in the new order.
"With this bold action by the governor, California extends its leadership role and joins the community of states and nations that are committed to slash carbon pollution through 2030 and beyond. Building on our existing climate programs, the 40 percent reduction will drive and accelerate innovation, generate new jobs, improve air quality and hasten California's transition to a clean energy economy," Mary Nichols, chair of the California Air Resources Board, said.
Risks of damage to natural resources and infrastructure caused by climate change will also be regularly assessed under the new directive. Changing conditions of water, energy and transportation systems will be monitored, as will biodiversity, forestry and wildlife habitat.
The executive order did not detail how agencies would carry out the directive. However, in his State of the Union Address delivered in January 2015, Brown outlined a few goals, including increasing the amount of energy produced from renewable sources from 33 percent to 50 percent. Building energy efficiency, including the use of solar panels, should be addressed, the governor noted, along with the use of electric and low-carbon vehicles.
Photo: Kevin Dooley | Flickr
