Landmark EPA decision could usher in Clean Energy

Ruling: Coal Plants Must Limit C02

In a move that signals the start of a clean energy future, the Environmental Protection Agency’s Environmental Appeals Board (EAB) ruled that the EPA had no valid reason for refusing to limit the carbon dioxide emissions that cause global warming from new coal-fired power plants (Sierra Club Press Release, EAB decision). The decision raises the likelihood that pending proposals for new coal plants will have to be reconsidered nationwide. The ruling follows a 2007 Supreme Court decision that required CO2 be listed as a pollutant under the Clean Air Act.

What the most recent decision means for the Cliffside unit is not immediately clear. In light of widespread expectations that Congress will soon act to limit carbon emissions with some kind of cap-and-trade legislation, there is a very real possibility that the Cliffside unit would be obsolete before construction finished. James Hansen, NASA's world-renowned climate expert, has called Cliffside, "a terrible, foreseeable waste of money." Stay tuned via our Cliffside page and here in Footnotes Online for the fate of coal in North Carolina.

NC Volunteer Building Bridges to the Outdoors

The Sierra Club program 'Building Bridges to the Outdoors' aims to give every child in America an outdoor experience and to leave no child inside! Central Piedmont Group Chair Josh Thomas was interviewed on WFAE Charlotte radio (listen to the audio) about research showing the current disconnect between children and the natural environment, as well as research detailing the benefits of time outside.

The 'Building Bridges to the Outdoors' program has a long-term commitment to get all children outdoor experiences by a) promoting research showing academic benefits to children who spend time outdoors, b) working with diverse coalition partners to highlight the leadership skills gained by outdoor adventures, and c) engaging public officials to provide funding for outdoor programs. Click here to see what you can do.

North Carolinian named Club's Political Co-Chair

Congratulations to Ken Brame, our very own Sierra Club volunteer who has been named co-chair of the national Sierra Club Political Team.  After several years living out of state, Ken and his wife Judy have returned to live in Asheville. Ken has a long history of involvement with the North Carolina Chapter. He has served as chair of the NC Political Committee as well as Vice Chair of the NC Chapter.  

What's more, he was a member of the national Political Committee , serving as chair for the 1999-2000 election cycle.  He served on the Sierra Club's Environmental Voter Education Committee (EVEC) from 2002-2006 and again joined the national Political Committee beginning in 2007. Ken and Judy enjoy the great hiking trails in Western North Carolina.

North Carolina's Highest Civilian Award goes to the Stanbacks

On Monday night, Governor Mike Easley presented Fred and Alice Stanback with the North Carolina Award for Public Service. The North Carolina Awards are the highest civilian honor bestowed by our state.

Few North Carolinians have had a more profound effect on conserving North Carolina’s air, water, land and forests for present and future citizens than the Stanbacks. And through the Duke University Nicholas School of the Environment Stanback internship program, North Carolina has seen an influx of trained and experienced conservationists into its work force. Former national Sierra Club President Lisa Renstrom had this to say about them:

Through their philanthropic and personal efforts, Fred and Alice have invested vital resources into protecting North Carolinians' health and welfare. We cannot thank them enough for their support of those advocating, educating, lobbying and litigating for clean North Carolina air, water and protected forests.

Durham hike garners front-page coverage

A spot of land near the Eno River State Park was the place for a 2.5 mile Sierra Club hike, and for a bit of activism. Hike leaders gathered support for an effort to shift ownership of a 60-acre parcel adjacent to the park from the city of Durham to the state. The land in question, West Point on the Eno Park, currently faces a development threat that could lead to runoff into the Eno and visual pollution for park-goers. To read about iwhat's going on around Eno River State Park, click here (you may have to register with the Durham Herald Sun).

Outings

Sat, Nov 22 - Sun, Dec 6, 2009   Doorway to the Back Country: Sierra Club Beginner Backpacking Class

(North Carolina Chapter) If you are interested in taking our Beginner Backpacking Class please get in touch!

Sat, Dec 6   Hyde County. Wolf Howling and Hike, Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge   (Cypress Group)

Wolf Howling and Hike, Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge.

Sat, Dec 20   Hanging Rock State Park Day Hike   (Foothills)

Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the holiday season and join us for a hike in Hanging Rock State Park.

In the News

Green Advocates See Potential Post Election   Rocky Mount Telegram   Nov 12, 2008

Molly Diggins, director of the Sierra Club’s North Carolina chapter, agreed that the Election Day results put North Carolina in position like never before to address and conquer environmental issues. She said there is a short window of opportunity — maybe just two years — for the nation to unite in the face of steep economic and environmental challenges.

Tax holiday set for energy-saving appliances   WRAL.com   Nov 05, 2008

“It’s exciting that, for the first time ever, North Carolina is offering a tax-free holiday on Energy Star appliances, helping consumers lower their energy bills and save money,” Pat Carstensen, chairman of the North Carolina Sierra Club executive committee, said in a statement.

Can't wait for our next issue? Check out the NC SIERRA CLUB BLOG for conservation links, green tips, volunteer insights, and local and regional news relevant to all our members and supporters. 

For upcoming club events and meetings, take a look at our Chapter Calendar.

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