Climate Change and Inequality

Climate Change and Inequality

The last time carbon in our atmosphere routinely exceeded 400 ppm was three million years ago. At that time temperatures were 3.6 to 5.4 degrees warmer, and the ocean levels were 15 to 25 meters higher. Imagine if, instead of being above 80 degrees the last week in July, we were well above 90 degrees, and in August if we exceeded 100 degrees for weeks on end.

Moving Cleaner – Progress Implementing Oregon’s Statewide Transportation Strategy

Moving Cleaner – Progress Implementing Oregon’s Statewide Transportation Strategy

In 2013, the Oregon Transportation Commission, in line with legislative direction, took steps to address greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from transportation sources by creating the Oregon Statewide Transportation Strategy: A 2050 Vision for Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction.

Solar Energy and “Virtual Net Metering” in Ashland

Solar Energy and “Virtual Net Metering” in Ashland

In the City of Ashland, Virtual Net Metering is a policy which enables energy produced at one electric meter, to be credited to another meter within the Ashland’s municipal electric utility. The policy expands opportunities for Ashland citizens to develop offsite solar generation (where their own residence may not have good solar access), and to co-develop larger community solar systems with others.

Climate Change Hits Home

Climate Change Hits Home

Last fall, as we watched in horror as wildfires ravaged Northern California, we were reminded of our own state’s “summer of smoke.” Oregon is fortunate to have been spared the tragic loss of life and property associated with wildfires that our neighbors to the south have seen. But the wildfire smoke ...

Climate Science and Response: What’s the Role for Politics?

Climate Science and Response:  What’s the Role for Politics?

It wasn’t so long ago that Democrats and Republicans could stipulate to the facts, then agree to argue cordially on remedies. On any given issue, Ds might be disposed to a regulatory fix while Rs would more readily defer to market dynamics to sort out an issue. But there was an underlying agreement on fundamentals...