Maryland Governor requires agencies to create a plan to combat climate change
State agencies in Maryland are gearing up to tackle climate change head-on thanks to an executive order signed by Gov. Wes Moore. This order mandates that all state agencies must submit a plan detailing how they will help Maryland achieve its goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 60% of 2006 levels by 2031. The agencies are required to submit their proposals by Nov. 1, outlining the steps and timeline for implementation of the necessary actions within their purview.
The order, signed at the Henderson-Hopkins School in Baltimore, emphasizes that every state agency has a role to play in meeting these ambitious climate targets. Governor Moore, a Democrat, stressed the importance of accountability measures that each agency must meet to make significant progress in combating climate change.
In addition to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, the Moore administration has set its sights on achieving 100% clean energy by 2035 and reaching net-zero emissions by 2045. This involves removing as much carbon from the atmosphere as is being emitted, marking a significant shift towards sustainable energy practices.
The executive order also directs the Maryland Department of the Environment to develop new policies aimed at reducing emissions from buildings, a move praised by environmental advocates. Anne Havemann, from the Chesapeake Climate Action Network, lauded the initiative to gradually reduce climate pollution from buildings and promote the adoption of clean technologies like heat pumps.
Furthermore, the Maryland Department of the Environment will play a central role as the “nerve center” for the state’s climate change strategy. A new subcabinet on climate change, led by department chief Serena McIlwain, will be responsible for monitoring Maryland’s progress and reporting on it annually.
Environmental justice is also a key focus of Maryland’s climate efforts, with Governor Moore emphasizing the intersection of climate justice and economic justice. The state is committed to crafting policies that reflect this mindset and ensure equitable outcomes for all communities.
The governor’s proactive approach to addressing climate change has been met with praise from various stakeholders. Kim Coble, co-chair of the Maryland Commission on Climate Change, commended the comprehensive nature of the executive order and the accountability system it establishes for tracking progress within state agencies.
With these bold initiatives in place, Maryland is taking significant steps towards a cleaner, more sustainable future. By prioritizing climate action and setting clear targets for greenhouse gas reduction, Governor Moore is leading the charge towards a greener and more resilient state.
