The burning of fossil fuels and the release of excess carbon dioxide has created a blanket of heat trapping pollution in the Earth's atmosphere. Recent studies have found rapid warming on both poles and retreating glaciers around the world—all tangible signs of global warming. Yet, carbon dioxide emissions continue to rise. In North Carolina alone, emissions have increased more than 30% since 1990. 

Despite overwhelming scientific evidence, the Bush Administration has stalled international efforts to address global warming. But the stakes are high—as global warming increases, coastal states such as North Carolina will likely see stronger hurricanes, rising seas that inundate the Outer Banks, and worsening air quality. And the longer we wait, the more severe the impact will be. Ultimately, global warming will require national and international action, but there are sensible steps NC can take now to limit our emissions and prepare for a world with warmer temperatures, altered weather patterns, and rising seas.

In 2005, a broad coalition of environmental groups put this issue on the legislature’s agenda; in response, legislators created a 34 member Commission on Global Climate Change, charged with studying the issue of climate change, and recommending actions the state should take.  In 2007 a technical advisory committee - the Climate Action Plan Advisory Group - issued a report with 56 recommendations the Commission should consider.

One of those 56 recommendations was that North Carolina should implement a Clean Cars program.  Cars, trucks and other vehicles are responsible for approximately 34 percent of North Carolina's global warming pollution. A Clean Cars Program would ensure that new cars, trucks, and SUV’s sold in North Carolina would emit about 30% less global warming pollution that today’s vehicles. Fourteen states have already adopted clean cars programs.  A 2008 report by Environment North Carolina - "Putting the Brakes on Global Warming" -  found that once the program is fully implemented in 2016, consumers are projected to save $20 to $26 per month on Clean Cars compliant vehicles.

In 2007, Rep. Pricey Harrison, along with Reps. Martin, Carney and Alexander, introduced H1179, Clean Cars Program/Funds in the House and Sen. Clodfelter introduced the twin, S1307, in the Senate. These bills did not move, in part because of legal challenges to the program at the national level.

In 2008, Rep. Harrison (along with Reps. Martin, Samuelson and Thomas) and Sen. Clodfelter introduced H2526/S1871 Motor Vehicle Emissions Study, which would put North Carolina firmly on the path to adopting the Clean Cars program in 2009.

Take Action! Urge your legislator to adopt the Clean Cars program in North Carolina.

Links

Fact Sheet on Motor Vehicle Emissions Study (H2526/S1871), Environment North Carolina, June 30, 2008.

"Putting the Brakes on Global Warming: How the Clean Cars Program Will Reduce Global Warming Pollution in North Carolina." Environment North Carolina, May 27, 2008.

NC Climate Action Plan Advisory Group

Legislative Commission on Global Climate Change

Environmental Defense

Southern Alliance for Clean Energy

Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change

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Last updated 7-2-08