About the Campaign | A Better Way | MD Resources
At Sierra Club, we believe that Maryland's solution to harmful coal energy is moving to 100% clean, renewable energy. Renewables like solar and wind are viable alternatives to dirty energy. Adoption of renewable energy in a way that addresses the triple bottom line of sustainability, Environment, Equity, and Economy, is essential for its success.
Environment
One of the biggest threats to our environment is climate change.1 Maryland is the third most at-risk state, with sea levels near the Chesapeake Bay rising two to three times faster than the national average as of 2013. Because of this risk, the repercussions of climate change on Marylanders can be far reaching and pose a serious threat to quality of life in our state.2
In order to effectively mitigate climate change, we need to cut down on our greenhouse gas emissions, and that starts with coal. Coal burning power plants are a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions in the United States. Thirty-eight percent of greenhouse gases emitted in 2014 were from electricity generation, and over three quarters of those emissions came from coal production alone.3 By strengthening the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) through the current program review, we can shrink our carbon footprint and keep Maryland clean for our children.
Equity
Climate change can have far reaching impacts on Marylanders and poor health outcomes are one of the many possibilities. As temperatures continue to climb, the health risks associated with poor air quality will increase, leading to more pronounced health disparities within the state.4 Communities close to dirty energy producers are more likely to face serious health complications, creating inequity in community health.5 By working towards clean energy, we can promote equity in all communities in Maryland.
In order to promote health and equity, residents from all over the state are calling for increased access to renewable energy. Since 2008, Maryland has participated in RGGI which not only limits emissions but generates funds that are invested in energy efficiency programs for individuals and businesses.6 Through programs like this people will gain greater access to resources that may have been previously unavailable to them. The Sierra Club believes everyone has the right to clean, affordable energy. Renewables and the programs that support them have shown that the two are not mutually exclusive.
Economy
Not only are renewables a good way to save on energy and health expenses, but they are also a good investment. Renew Maryland has reported that every dollar invested in energy efficiency and alternative energy produces more than twice as many jobs as a dollar invested in coal or fracked gas. The projected result of this investment is $1.6 billion in total economic benefits and 37,000 new jobs by 2020.7 This isn't just fantasy, either; Maryland is already one of the top solar states in the country, with nearly 150 companies and over 3,000 jobs. And, by expanding our renewable usage, we can see the potential of even further growth.
Cleaning up pollution caused by dirty energy is essential in building a flourishing economic future. Through RGGI, Maryland has generated almost half a billion dollars and turned those funds into jobs, ratepayer assistance, reduced energy demand, and clean energy growth. Encouraging "green" building practices can also save businesses and residents money, giving them more freedom to innovate.7
To learn more about the projected energy grid for Maryland, check out The Solutions Project's infographic and see how Maryland can be without coal.
1. Climate Change Maryland
2. Sea Level Rise in Maryland
3. U.S. Energy Information Administration
4. Energy and Health in Maryland
5. Renew Maryland: Healthy People
6. Maryland Strategic Energy Investment Fund
7. Renew Maryland: Strong Economy