Environment Washington Applauds Efforts to Ensure A Coal-Free Future

Environment Washington

Seattle, WA – This weekend, a historic agreement between Gov. Chris Gregoire, TransAlta Corp., and members of the state environmental community was reached that will ensure a coal-free future for the state.

A bill capturing the agreement passed the state senate 36-13 on Saturday.

Environment Washington has been working with leading environmental organizations in the state to set a committed date for the shutdown of TransAlta’s Centralia coal-fired power plant, the largest stationary source of global warming emissions in the state. Most recently, Environment Washington brought attention to the significant public health threat of the plant’s mercury emissions, shinning a spotlight on the more than 360 pounds of mercury emitted annually.

Environment Washington’s advocate, Heather Shute, released the following statement:

“Fossil-fuel fired giants have dominated our electricity for decades and have been allowed to pollute without license. In order to stop global warming, protect public health, preserve our environment, and reap the benefits of clean energy, we must end our dependence on dirty fossil fuels. The governor’s agreement, and the senate’s swift action to pass supporting legislation, does just that.

“By taking strong action to end our dependence on dirty coal, Washington is showing the nation that a clean energy future is within reach.

“Environment Washington applauds the governor’s agreement and Sen. Rockefeller’s bill, and urges the house to pass the bill without delay, ushering in a bright, clean energy future for the state.”

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Environment Washington is a state-based, citizen-funded environmental advocacy organization working for clean air, clean water, and open space.