In 2021, with ECA’s essential advocacy, the state adopted the “Roadmap” legislation which set ambitious GHG emissions targets for 2030 and beyond. At the time, we had the wind at our backs. Climate change ranked near the top of public issues, the federal government adopted laws and regulations to promote clean energy, businesses set their own “net-zero” targets, and our country was a leader in international efforts to combat climate change.
Five years later there has been a dramatic change in public perception, federal support, and international cooperation. We are facing a growing set of challenges. With the current conditions, what opportunities are there to continue and accelerate movement towards the state’s climate targets? Do we need to revisit the roadmap set out in the state’s Clean Energy and Climate Plan (CECP)?
Our own Leadership Team member and Research Group facilitator Arnie Epstein led a discussion of this crucial topic at our April Deep Dialogue. Arnie lives in Stow MA where he is Chair of the town’s Green Advisory Committee. Last year, Stow was one of the first communities in the state to be designated a Climate Leader and was presented with the state’s Leading By Example award.
The slides from the session are available here.
You can view the video of the meeting below: