The U.S. can reduce global warming pollution by nearly 10% annually, replace the power equivalent of 170 coal fired power plants, and create or sustain more than 3 million jobs by making investment in clean energy and transportation a cornerstone of the country's economic recovery plan, according to a report issued by Environment Virginia.
Environment Virginia's report, ‘Clean Energy, Bright Future,’ estimates the environmental benefits of investing $150 billion in clean energy technologies, such as wind, solar power and green infrastructure, such as public transit.
According to the report, these investments could reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 670 million tons per year when fully implemented. This would represent a significant step toward reducing the nation's global warming pollution by 35% by 2020, which scientists say is necessary to avert the worst impacts of global warming.
While Virginia's offshore wind potential could meet all of the commonwealth's energy needs, every part of the country has the opportunity to benefit from a green economic recovery and transition to a new energy economy, according to the group.
SOURCE: Environment Virginia
