Grabbing the lead on climate change action, Kansas blocked a coal plant permit because of CO2 emissions. This is a stunning move for a state stereotyped as anti-environmental and anti-science because of right-wing Republican tendencies. The statement from Dept. Secretary Roderick Bremby is fabulous. It says, among other things:
“I believe it would be irresponsible to ignore emerging information about the contribution of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases to climate change and the potential harm to our environment and health if we do nothing,"
This is further proof, as if it were needed, that environmental protection is NOT a partisan issue.
There has been considerable talk in the blogosphere lately that religious beliefs are inherently anti-science and in opposition to important science-based causes like education and environmental protection. Much of this has emanated from the battles over the teaching of evolution and intelligent design in places like Kansas. I guess Kansas is not so one-sided as some might claim.
One sidelight, the permit was rejected by the Kansas Dept. of Health and Environment, a progressive alignment of state functions. Protection of our environment is a health issue, and I wish more states acted on that basis.
Go Kansas!
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1 comment:
I was glad to see this post. The story caught my eye as quite remarkable when I originally heard it on PBS (I think). Both the court's action and Bremby's quote were truly remarkable. Religous beliefs are neither inherently anti-science nor anti-environmental. Einstein was religious and the head of at least one major Christian denomination holds a Ph.D in Marine Science and is a strong advocate on global warming. Jack.
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