A new report says that in 2012 Minnesota’s renewable-energy standards reduced carbon pollution by 3.2 million metric tons, or the equivalent of the emissions from 675,000 cars.
The report, from the Environment America Research & Policy Center, was released locally today at the Mayflower Church in Minneapolis, which installed 204 solar panels in November.
Samantha Chadwick of Environment Minnesota, said:
“We’ve proven that we have what it takes to protect our kids and grandkids from the worst impacts of climate change. And now we need firm limits on carbon pollution in order to deliver a knockout blow.”
Also at the event were Rep. Keith Ellison; Ellen Anderson, a senior energy and environment advisor for Gov. Mark Dayton; Rev. Sarah Campbell from Mayflower and Chad Dipman of Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity.
Said Ellison:
“As many of my colleagues in Congress refuse to address climate change, it is critical that local groups, city councils, and state governments take immediate action to curb greenhouse gas emissions and prepare for climate impacts.”
Rev. Campbell said: “Mayflower is committed to being carbon neutral by 2030. We have already reduced carbon emissions 60% through our energy efficiency measures and installation of solar panels. Several state incentive programs allowed us to install our solar array, and we support increased incentives for everyone to take advantage of.”
