American Rivers: The American Clean Energy and Security Act (HR 2454)

In June 2009, the U.S. House of Representatives passed comprehensive energy and climate legislation for the first time when it approved H.R. 2454, the American Clean Energy and Security Act. The U.S. Senate is currently considering a related bill, the Clean Energy Jobs and American Power Act, recently introduced by Senators John Kerry (D-MA) and Barbara Boxer (D-CA).

Global warming is the greatest threat to the future of our rivers and communities. Rising temperatures will have a profound impact on the water resources that supply our basic needs, drive our economy and sustain healthy ecosystems. Across the country we are already witnessing more floods, droughts and water pollution as a result of the changing climate. If we do not take steps to limit global warming pollution in the near future, many communities will be unable to protect residents from extreme weather or provide a clean and consistent supply of water.

Passage of the American Clean Energy and Security Act was an historic step that will help us avoid the worst impacts of global warming. The bill:

• Creates a market-based cap and trade system for global warming pollution that would require companies to lower their emissions or pay to reduce emissions elsewhere. The bill would lower CO₂ emissions 17% by 2050 and 83% by 2050.
• Invests $190 billion in clean energy and energy efficiency and creates millions of new jobs.
• Provides funding to help communities and wildlife prepare for the impacts of global warming.

Preparing Communities and Wildlife more Floods, Droughts and Water Pollution

Communities and ecosystems are already experiencing the impacts of global warming through shifting precipitation patterns, more severe floods and droughts and rising levels of water pollution. Even if we stop all emissions today, these changes will continue for decades due to past global warming pollution. It is therefore essential that we help communities and wildlife begin to prepare for these unavoidable impacts.

The American Clean Energy and Security Act establishes important programs to help communities and ecosystems adapt to global warming. The domestic adaptation section provides states with funds to adapt to sea level rise, water scarcity and other expected impacts. The natural resources adaptation fund provides resources to a variety of federal and state agencies to help prepare ecosystems and wildlife for global warming. With this assistance, communities and natural resources will be better able to avoid the worst impacts of a changing climate.

• For more information on the bill, click here.