There are many things that we can do as a community to work for a more sustainable future (Sustainable Ann Arbor forum series begins Jan. 12-Dec 26). There are important national issues, such as America’s dependence on oil, however, which we need to address at the federal level.
Fortunately, the Obama administration has plans to lessen our dependence on oil and work toward a more sustainable transportation system. In November, the administration proposed strong new pollution and fuel efficiency standards for cars and trucks sold in 2017 through 2025.
The standards would cut gasoline use by as much as 23 billion gallons per year nationally. They would also cut annual global warming emissions by 280 million metric tons -- which is as much pollution as is created by 72 coal-fired power plants in a year. This would be the single biggest step our country has ever taken to combat global warming.
To make sure the standards are put into place, the Obama administration needs to hear from citizens. I urge Ann Arbor residents to make their voices heard by submitting a public comment to a-and-r-Docket@epa.gov (include “Docket ID No. EPA-HQ-OAR-2010-0799” in the subject line) in support of strong clean car standards.
Jane Wiedenbeck
Environment America, Ann Arbor
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