Media release - November 1, 2007
“The subcommittee markup of ‘America’s Climate Security may set the stage for a more serious discussion and possible action on global warming legislation, however the current version of the bill requires strengthening in three areas before Greenpeace can support the bill.
Reduction Targets: We need to reduce our global warming
emissions by an estimated 80-90 percent below 1990 levels by 2050
to avert the most serious consequences of global warming. The
legislation does not set us on a path to meet a scientifically
based long-term reduction target, and should be strengthened
significantly, to something on the order of 30 percent below 1990
levels.
Eliminating Giveaways to Polluters: As currently drafted, the
bill gives the fossil fuel industry more than $400 billion in
permits over 25 years. The corporate giveaway creates windfall
profits, while taking vital resources away from easing America's
transition to a clean energy future. These permits must be
auctioned within 10 years. In addition, auction revenue must not
be spent to promote nuclear power, advanced coal and sequestration
or other energy technologies that are not sustainable.
Making a Real Commitment to International Adaptation Needs: The
bill as drafted provides resources to domestic adaptation needs,
but neglects our moral obligations internationally. Legislation
must make significant financial commitments to help developing
countries adapt to the environmental, social and economic impacts
caused by global warming. The current structure of the bill fails
to provide these resources.
"Legislative action on global warming will require bold
leadership from the Congress, and today's subcommittee markup falls
well short of that. As the bill moves through committee and then
to the Senate floor, it is our hope that the bill will be
strengthened to ensure that it meets the scale of reductions that
scientists tell us are necessary."
Other contacts: CONTACT: Jane Kochersperger, 202-319-2493 direct; 202-680-3798, cell