GHG Emissions  -  September 25, 2020

Michigan governor commits state to carbon neutrality

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan signed an Executive Order Sept. 23 creating the MI Healthy Climate Plan and committing the state to carbon neutrality by 2050.

This announcement makes Michigan the ninth state to commit to a 100% carbon neutral economy. In the interim, the governor set a 2025 target for the state of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 28% below 1990 levels.

“The science is clear – climate change is directly impacting our public health, environment, our economy, and our families,” Gov. Whitmer said in a statement. “This dangerous reality is already causing harm throughout Michigan, with communities of color and low-income Michiganders suffering disproportionately, which is why I’m taking immediate action to protect our state. We owe it to our children and grandchildren to leave them a cleaner, safer and healthier world. Through comprehensive and aggressive steps, we will combat the climate crisis by formally setting and relentlessly pursuing a goal of statewide decarbonization by 2050. These bold actions will provide critical protections for our environment, economy, and public health, now and for years to come. It will also position Michigan to attract a new generation of clean energy and energy efficiency jobs.”

The Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) were tasked with developing and implementing the MI Climate Healthy Plan, which will serve as the action plan for reducing emissions and shifting the economy toward carbon neutrality. The Department of Technology, Management and Budget will be responsible for increasing energy efficiency and decreasing emissions from new state buildings and facilities. 

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