Legislation will help fight climate change

This opinion is based upon three facts: the known reserves for oil and natural gas are projected to be depleted in 50 years; climate change is real; and man’s use of fossil fuels is the main reason for climate change. As we have spent centuries increasing CO2, the fix will take decades of investment in reforestation, technology and infrastructure to address the problem.

In 2021, Illinois set a goal for zero net emissions for CO2 by 2050 from the power sector. This will allow time to make the necessary investments to hit the target. Additionally, we need to begin to invest in decarbonizing other sectors of the economy and to make sure we have a strong and resilient grid which supports this effort.

The state is contemplating three bills which will support efforts to achieve a 2050 net zero emissions goal for CO2. These bills are: 1. The Clean and Healthy Building Act - SB 3935/HB 5835 2. The Clean and Reliable Grid Act - SB 3637 3. The Clean and Equitable Transportation Act - SB 3936/HB 5829.

Each has a different focus but collectively they address the production of energy, the distribution of energy and the use of energy. Likewise, they’ll lead to positive changes in people’s day-to-day lives: cleaner air in our homes and neighborhoods, more green jobs in communities across the state, more transit, walking and biking options and more. For those whose focus is climate change, these bills need to be supported. For those who are unsure of climate change, the bills need to be supported as the depletion of oil and gas is real and this will delay the depletion date.

I ask each of you to contact your legislators to let them know that you support each of these bills.

Greg Pagliuzza

Chicago