Regarding Announcement by the RGGI to Reduce Carbon Pollution
By Jeffrey Seyler, CEO, American Lung Association of the Northeast
(Feb. 7, 2013) “We applaud today’s announcement by the nine state directors of the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, Inc (RGGI) to lower the carbon cap. This announcement will lead to decreased power plant emissions and healthier air for our region to breathe. By reducing power plant carbon pollution, RGGI states will continue to play an important role in moving the electricity sector in the region towards producing power from the most modern, and clean, power plants. By continuing to use the auction proceeds for deployment of renewable energy and increased energy efficiency, the states can remove even more life-threatening pollution from our skies.
As carbon pollution builds up in the atmosphere, scientists believe that it will likely lead to increased temperatures. The increase in temperatures can increase the risk for formation of ground level ozone or smog. Breathing ozone may lead to shortness of breath and chest pain, wheezing and coughing; increased risk of asthma attacks; increased susceptibility to respiratory infections, and need for medical treatment and for hospitalization for people with lung diseases, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and premature death.
Today’s announcement by the RGGI Participating States will ensure continued progress towards securing the long-term health of our children.”