In response to the announcement last week of a U.S. withdrawal from the Paris Accord, several Governors have created a coalition to remain committed to the climate agreement. The U.S. Climate Alliance currently encompasses 12 states including California, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, and Washington, as well as Puerto Rico.
Attorneys General from 18 states and D.C. have also pledged to adhere to the U.S. goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions 26-28 percent from 2005 levels and meeting or exceeding the targets of the federal Clean Power Plan. Partnering with private industry and academia, the group will act as a forum to sustain and strengthen existing climate programs, promote the sharing of information and best practices, and implement new programs to reduce carbon emissions from all sectors of the economy.
“Those of us who understand science and feel the urgency of protecting our children’s air and water are as united as ever in confronting one of the greatest challenges of our lifetime,” said Washington Governor Jay Inslee. “Our collective efforts to act on climate will ensure we maintain the United States’ commitment to curb carbon pollution while advancing a clean energy economy that will bring good-paying jobs to America’s workers.”
