Obama's Clean Power Plan Misses the Mark

Washington, D.C. ­ The Obama administration announced today the final version of its latest plan to combat climate change. The “Clean Power Plan” sets targets for each state to lower carbon emissions, but does not specify how states should meet their targets. If a state fails to submit a plan, the EPA will seek to impose a federal solution, which is likely to include cap-and-trade – type polluting trading schemes.

In response, Wenonah Hauter, executive director of the national advocacy organization Food & Water Watch, issued the following statement:

“The Obama Administration has long touted a commitment to implementing meaningful regulation to address the climate crisis. Unfortunately, this plan fails that commitment. The goal is too weak, and the tools aren’t fit for the job. Relying on inherently flawed programs like cap-and-trade instead of serious federal regulation is a recipe for failure. His Clean Power Plan is nothing more than a market-based compromise with polluting industries. With this plan, we can expect more fossil fuel development, more dangerous fracking, and only a symbolic investment in truly clean, renewable energy.”

Contact: Ryanne Waters, rwaters[at]fwwatch[dot]org

Food & Water Watch champions healthy food and clean water for all. We stand up to corporations that put profits before people, and advocate for a democracy that improves people’s lives and protects our environment.

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