Since taking office in 2017, President Trump has sought to reverse more than 60 environmental rules to date. This includes many of those established to fight climate change.
With these regulation changes, the battle against climate change lies in the hands of individual states. But which states are leading the way in environmental policy?
Here we take a look at the top five states that are fighting climate change through innovative legislation.
THE 5 STATES LEADING THE FIGHT AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
Taking a variety of measures into account, including energy consumption, pollution, renewable energy and policy, here’s how the top five greenest states fight climate change:
1. VERMONT
With the smallest population in the country, Vermont produces less pollution than most states.
The ‘Green Mountain State’ has the smallest carbon footprint and releases the fewest carcinogenic toxins. It also ranks highly across a range of environmental factors, including energy consumption and air quality.
But it is Vermont’s focus on environmentalism that has helped it grab the top spot. With many effective policies in place to promote renewable energy and energy efficiency, the state is setting the bar in the fight against climate change.
2. OREGON
With a range of initiatives and energy-saving programs, Oregon is making significant contributions to fight climate change.
One such policy is a focus on building more zero energy homes, where Oregon comes in second.
Oregon also ranks second in the country for its production of hydroelectric energy, and eighth for non-hydroelectric alternative energy, mainly from wind farms.
3. IDAHO
An abundance of renewable resources – including solar, wind, hydropower and geothermal energy – help Idaho score well in the fight against climate change.
Idaho generates the largest relative amount of renewal energy in the country, with 79% of the state’s electricity coming from renewable energy.
Idaho’s extensive use of renewable energy also means that it produces less pollution and waste. The state has one of the lowest rates of CO2 emissions from fossil fuel combustion and scores well for its low production of toxic waste.
4. SOUTH DAKOTA
South Dakota produces the second lowest amount of toxic waste and has the third lowest carbon footprint in the country.
The state also scores well thanks to its extensive use of renewable energy. Over three quarters of the energy generated in South Dakota is from hydroelectric power and wind energy.
In fact, the home of Mount Rushmore ranks among the top five states in the country for its net electricity generation provided by wind.
5. WASHINGTON
It is true that Washington’s carbon footprint and toxic waste production could be better. But, the state’s focus on environmentalist public policy and renewable energy as a means to improve this situation help it into our top five.
The Grand Coulee Dam generates enough hydroelectric power to provide electricity to 2.3 million households per year. Thanks to this, Washington is country’s leading producer of electricity from hydroelectric sources.
HOW DOES YOUR STATE FIGHT CLIMATE CHANGE?
Whether your state is setting the bar when it comes to fighting climate change or not, there are many changes we can make as individuals to reduce our carbon footprint.
From smart energy-saving technology in the home to conscious decisions to cut down on our own personal waste, we can all help fight climate change.
Has your state made the list? Let us know how your state compares by commenting below, or contact us for more information.
