Sen. Carper Applauds EPA’s Common Sense Approach to Addressing Carbon Pollution

WASHINGTON – Sen. Tom Carper (D-Del.), chairman of the Senate Subcommittee on Clean Air and Nuclear Safety, issued the following statement on the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) announcement that provides guidance and tools to help state and local air permitting authorities identify cost-effective pollution reduction options for greenhouse gas pollution under the Clean Air Act:

"Today’s announcement shows that the Administration is taking a common sense approach to regulating greenhouse gas pollution in this country. The Environmental Protection Agency is recommending states focus on the largest polluters and encourage energy efficiency to achieve early carbon pollution reductions. This approach will not only reduce harmful emissions, but will also save companies money in energy savings in the long run. This announcement compliments earlier initiatives by the Environmental Protection Agency that will require new large emitters of pollution to start reducing their carbon emissions next year, while simultaneously protecting farmers and small businesses that help drive Delaware’s economy. 

"This decision builds on the actions already being taken by states across the country, including my home state of Delaware, to reduce harmful air pollution that is detrimental to public health and our environment. States like Delaware recognize that there is real economic opportunity that can be found by cleaning our air and improving energy efficiency. These efforts are putting Americans to work building clean energy equipment to sell here and export around the world, equipment that’s stamped "Made in the U.S.A." As a coastal state, Delaware could see some of the greatest negative impacts from small changes in global temperatures. That is why Delaware is already participating in a regional carbon reduction program – which has already prompted clean energy investments in the state, such as the Bluewater Wind offshore wind project off the shores of Rehoboth. 

"As we conclude the 111th Congress and prepare for the 112th, I will continue to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to move forward in crafting responsible policies that protect public health, protect our environment and provide Delawareans with jobs for a clean energy economy."