We can solve Global Warming
More and more Washingtonians are concerned about what global warming will mean for the health and well-being of future generations. The good news is that we can do something about global warming, using tools that already exist. But the longer we wait, the worse the effects will be.

We’re urging the governor and her Climate Advisory Team to call for reducing global warming pollution by at least 15 percent by 2020 and 80 percent by 2050—the science-based levels needed to protect future generations. Achieving these reductions could also cut our dependence on oil, save consumers money, reduce air pollution and protect pristine places.

Global Problem, Local Impacts
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, a United Nations body charged with assessing the scientific record on global warming, recently concluded that the evidence that the climate is warming is “unequivocal.” This warming has local, regional and global effects. In Washington, we’re already seeing the erosion of our coastlines; loss of our Cascade snowpack that provides water for people, fish, electricity and irrigation; more wildfires; and impacts on salmon and other endangered species. The effects will become more serious over time.

Most global warming pollution produced in Washington state comes from automobiles and other transportation. Not surprisingly, Pres. Bush (a former oilman) has sided with the oil, coal and auto industries to reject binding limits on global warming pollution. But states and local governments are taking action to make up for the lack of federal action while also prompting change in Congress.

Last year, Gov. Schwarzenegger signed a landmark bill to reduce California’s global warming pollution. With Gov. Gregoire’s support, we can do the same here in Washington.

Solutions are Available Now
We can reduce global warming pollution using technologies that are already available to make power plants and factories more efficient. We know how to get energy from the sun, wind and other natural forces. We can also make more efficient use of the energy we already produce.  

With transportation our number one source of global warming pollution, we need to more quickly expand our fledgling network of rail transit to give people both cleaner and more convenient ways to get around. We can do more to promote the availability and use of cleaner fuels produced right here in Washington. We can make cars go farther on a gallon of gas and develop a new generation of electric powered vehicles. These solutions also could reduce our dependence on oil, save consumers money, reduce air pollution and protect pristine places from oil drilling and mining.