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GO BIG, little rhody campaign heats up!

Rhode Island needs a global warming solution that is as big as our global waming problem. The next step is an economy-wide pollution reduction mandate that will put the Ocean State on track to meet the pollution reductions scientists say are necessary to avoid the worst effects of global warming.

In 2001, Rhode Island, along with other states in New England, agreed to voluntarily reduce its global warming pollution 10% by 2020. Although achievable, the Ocean State is not on track to  meet this modest goal, and scientists say we must go even further to avoid the worst effects of global warming. 

Rhode Island has the unique opportunity to become a national leader in the fight against global warming. With our 400 miles of coastline threatened by rising sea levels and fiercer storms, Rhode Island is on the forefront of this problem.

That’s why Environment Rhode Island is urging members of the General Assembly to pass legislation this year that will clearly and effectively fight global warming, by enacting a cap and reduction program that will reduce pollution 20% by 2020 and 80% by 2050.

 

Brief Summary

Global warming is a very real and growing threat to Rhode Island. Rising sea levels threaten our coastlines and higher temperatures make our air pollution more dangerous.

Changes in sea levels and bay temperatures could have tremendous impacts on Rhode Island's 400 miles of densely populated shoreline and on our marine industry.

In addition, more frequent and intense storms will accelerate beach erosion and increase the cost of insurance along Rhode Island’s coastline.

Hotter temperatures also mean more days when the air in Rhode Island is literally unhealthy to breathe.

To avoid the worst impacts of global warming scientists are saying we need to cut global warming emissions 20% by 2020 and 80% by 2050.

That's why Environment Rhode Island is urging Gov. Carcieri to support a statewide global warming program that will put Rhode Island on the path to the kind of reductions scientists say we must achieve to truly fight global warming.