N.J. Gov. Corzine orders big cut in greenhouse gas emissions

[Doondoo]

In one of the most ambitious governmental actions yet taken on global warming, Gov. Corzine yesterday signed an executive order calling for his state to dramatically cut its greenhouse-gas emissions. Under the order, New Jersey would cut its emissions to 1990 levels - a reduction of 20 percent - by 2020. It calls for a total 80 percent reduction by 2050.

"Today we have taken steps to preserve our planet for our children and grandchildren by adopting aggressive goals for the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions," Corzine said in a press release.

Environmental groups cheered, but still at issue is whether Corzine will be able to get the legislative support he needs along with the cooperation of business and industry. Some cautioned that even if New Jersey meets its emissions goals, it could amount to naught if neighboring states, or even countries, don't also cut their emissions.

Corzine's move is another example of states taking their own action - on health care, stem-cell research, mercury emissions, and more - when they disagree with federal policy.

"In the absence of leadership on the federal level, the burden has now fallen upon state executives and legislatures to lead the way on this issue, and I'm proud that New Jersey is helping to blaze that trail," Corzine said.


http://www.philly.com/mld/philly/16692441.htm

[Legate]

1. nice

Happy to live in this state and I've been nothing, but happy with my vote for Corzine.

[no_hypocrisy]

2. I wish he really could, but I remain skeptical at best, pessimistic at worst.

New Jersey has the most congested highways and roads in the Union. From There are lawn tractors, leaf blowers, snow blowers, etc. going at any given time. It's typical of residents to jump in their car and drive three blocks during the day to buy milk or a bagel. In my town, Main Street is bumper-to-bumper during rush hour and Saturdays. People drive to malls. People drive, period.

Corzine might be able to do something with the refineries before he can cure New Jersey of its love affair with cars.

[YankeyMCC]

3. Good Luck to them

This is a key statement:

(snip)
"In the absence of leadership on the federal level, the burden has now fallen upon state executives and legislatures to lead the way on this issue, and I'm proud that New Jersey is helping to blaze that trail," Corzine said.
(snip)

So I applaud Gov Corzine for his effort, though I'm not sure it'll be enough in terms of the goal of the cuts but also given the point made in the article that not all states are doing this and the people and ecology of NJ will still be subject to the harmful effects of greenhouse gases and other ecology abuses.

I seem to recall a post from NNadir that showed that NJ may actually be in good shape in terms of being able to reduce their reliance on fossil fuels.

[abluelady]

4. I Applaud Gov. Corzine

NJ is my home state. I am proud to see that they are working towards where all states should be. Now as far as VA where I'm at now.....:-(

[DrRang]

5. Very similar to what Richardson did in New Mexico. n/t