Reform Jewish Movement Applauds Proposed Carbon Pollution Standards

Barbara Weinstein: "These new federal standards, which target a key source of carbon pollution, mark an historic step in our commitment to protecting public health and curbing climate change."

Contact: Max Rosenblum or Sophie Golomb
202.387.2800 | news@rac.org

WASHINGTON, D.C., June 2, 2014 -- In response to the Environmental Protection Agency's unveiling of proposed Carbon Pollution Standards for existing power plants, Barbara Weinstein, Director of the Commission on Social Action and Associate Director of the Religious Action Center, issued the following statement: 
 

"We commend the Environmental Protection Agency proposal of substantial carbon emissions limits for existing power plants. Scientists and climate experts have long since determined that carbon pollution poses significant threats to public health and disproportionately affects low-income communities, people of color, children and older adults. Additionally, carbon pollution is the primary cause of climate change and the associated frequent and severe storms, rising sea levels and crippling droughts. Each of these and other extreme weather events are further evidence of what was affirmed in the recent National Climate Assessment report, which is that climate change is already having an impact on communities worldwide.

These new federal standards, which target a key source of carbon pollution, mark an historic step in our commitment to protecting public health and curbing climate change.

While mitigating the devastation of climate change is a political and economic challenge, in the Jewish community, climate change is a moral challenge as well. This week, we observe the holiday of Shavuot, which marks the summer harvest and reminds us of our connection to the land, which is a gift from God entrusted to our care. This Shavuot, we strengthen our commitment to the earth, both by making responsible environmental choices in our personal lives and by advocating for strong measures to arrest the consequences of climate change.

​We look forward to continuing to support and work with the EPA and the Obama Administration to fully implement strict carbon pollution standards for existing power plants to protect the health and well-being of our planet and its inhabitants."