Global Warming Report

Louisiana can take steps against global warming that builds its economy as well as mitigates environmental risks, according to a new report issued by a legislative study group. "Danger & Opportunity: Implications for Climate Change in Louisiana" is the result of a joint resolution passed by the Louisiana legislature in 1996. The report details significant risks that global warming -- also called "climate change" -- poses for the state's farm lands, forests, public health and coasts of Louisiana. It also identifies ways the state's economy, including the energy exploration and production sectors, can benefit from reducing emissions of carbon dioxide, a by-product from burning fossil fuels and the gas primarily linked to global warming.

"Speaking as a member of the study committee, " said Dr. Len Bahr, the Governor's Executive Assistant for Coastal Activities, "I think we produced a balanced report that highlights both the major areas of vulnerability facing Louisiana and several strategies that would mitigate the adverse consequences of climate change and enhance the state's overall economic position. The report will be provided to Governor Foster and the Legislature for their consideration in formulating appropriate policies and programs."

The study committee report outlines four areas which offer economic benefits while, at the same time, reducing environmental vulnerabilities through lowering carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions: 1) increasing energy efficiency, 2) promoting the state's natural gas resource, 3) promoting renewable energy resources, and 4) improving the state's transportation systems.

Energy Efficiency: Tremendous opportunities exist for increasing energy efficiency across all sectors of Louisiana's economy. Three examples: 1) the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources has estimated that the Commercial Building Energy Code passed in 1997 will annually save Louisiana building owners over $4 million in energy costs and the reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 113 million pounds, the equivalent of 54,249 cars; 2) an energy management program adopted by the East Baton Rouge Parish Schools saved over $1 million in energy costs over the first two years; and 3) the British Petroleum Alliance Refinery in Belle Chasse put in place efficiency measures that will save over $1 million per year while reducing carbon dioxide and other "greenhouse" gases by 204,690 tons annually.

Natural Gas: Louisiana has 19% of the U.S. natural gas reserves and provides 25% of the nation's natural gas. Burning natural gas releases about one-half of the carbon dioxide emissions of coal, the fossil fuel currently used in the majority of U.S. power plants. Greater use of natural gas in the electricity and transportation sectors will result in lower carbon dioxide emissions and higher job growth within the Louisiana economy.

Renewable Energy: Renewable energy has gotten a slow start in Louisiana while Texas and Florida have taken steps to encourage its growth. Incorporating renewable energy into Louisiana's energy resource "mix" will help us compete with those states and reduce carbon dioxide emissions.

Transportation: According to EPA data, Louisiana had the third highest level of per capita carbon dioxide emissions in the transportation sector among U.S. states. Louisiana has lagged behind in investing in public transportation which other states have found to be a cost-effective way to address traffic congestion, a problem which afflicts Louisiana's metropolitan areas and diminishes quality of life.

"Louisiana has the natural and technical resources to be a national and international leader in promoting climate-friendly energy technologies," said Gary Groesch, Executive Director of the Alliance for Affordable Energy. "And because of the state's vulnerability to sea-level rise, we have an added incentive to be a leader." he added.

"Public transportation such as buses and light rail improves quality of life and, as a side benefit, reduces many types of air pollution including carbon dioxide," said Paula Henderson, representing the Louisiana office of the National Environmental Trust.

"The report is intended to be a first step for the state in addressing this important issue," said Mary Tutwiler, Chair of the study group. "It is an issue that the state has to take seriously so that our children and grandchildren can prosper and enjoy living here."

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"Danger & Opportunity:

Implications of Climate Change for Louisiana"…

http://www.crcl.org

Our Story
The Alliance is a nonprofit membership organization dedicated to creating fair, affordable, and environmentally responsible energy policies. Founded in 1985 in New Orleans, the Alliance conducts community education campaigns on energy issues, helps citizens and businesses become more energy efficient, and promotes sustainable energy policy solutions. As the only Louisiana consumer advocacy/environmental organization, the Alliance plays a pivotal role in providing citizen input on energy-related issues. Since its inception, the organization's mission has evolved to cover energy issues affecting citizens from reducing energy bills to being the state's lead organizer in the fight to stop global warming. In the wake of the devastating 2005 hurricanes, the Alliance is using its regulatory, policy development, networking and outreach skills to ensure that New Orleans and the region utilize available sustainable technologies and smart planning choices as reconstruction occurs.