New EPA Proposal Would be Key to Achieving Climate Goals for Birds and People
Wood Thrush. Photo: Linnet Tse/Audubon Photography Awards
(May 11, 2023) WASHINGTON – Today the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released a proposed plan to cut climate pollution from coal and natural gas power plants. These climate standards have the potential to slow the rise in global temperatures, improve air quality, and accelerate the transition from fossil fuels to clean electricity. Combined with the buildout of clean energy that is being accelerated through the historic investments in the Inflation Reduction Act, the plan would help cut climate pollution in half by 2030 and deliver important benefits to birds, people, and the places we all need.
“The EPA’s proposal would set strong limits on one of the largest emitters of greenhouse gases, and one of the largest sources of harmful air pollution that impacts the health and well-being of communities living near our nation’s power plants. This bold action is a common-sense approach to embracing the future of clean energy, and it would be crucial to meeting our climate goals and realizing a healthier future for people and wildlife,” said Sarah Rose, Audubon’s Vice President of Climate. “We look forward to working with the administration to make sure the strongest possible climate pollution standards are finalized and implemented responsibly to benefit birds and communities across the country.”
Audubon’s Survival by Degrees report found that two-thirds of North American bird species will be vulnerable to extinction if global temperatures are allowed to rise at the current rate. Adopting forward-looking climate and clean energy policy is critical to reducing pollution, slowing the rise in global temperatures, and preserving the high-quality habitats that birds need to survive. Audubon staff across the network are working to make sure that wind, solar, and transmission infrastructure is built responsibly to minimize and mitigate impacts to birds and other wildlife.
The National Audubon Society protects birds and the places they need, today and tomorrow. Audubon works throughout the Americas using science, advocacy, education, and on-the-ground conservation. State programs, nature centers, chapters, and partners give Audubon an unparalleled wingspan that reaches millions of people each year to inform, inspire, and unite diverse communities in conservation action. A nonprofit conservation organization since 1905, Audubon believes in a world in which people and wildlife thrive. Learn more at www.audubon.org and on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @audubonsociety.