By requiring the U.S. auto fleet to average 54.5 miles per gallon by 2025, the standards announced today by the Obama administration will significantly cut U.S. oil consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, reports Juliet Eilperin.
According to Eilperin, Tuesday's announcement of the "historic" rules by Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood and EPA
Administrator Lisa P. Jackson, "will mark the culmination of a compromise
the White House forged between the auto industry, environmentalists,
labor unions and the state of California."
"Unlike many energy policies enacted under President Obama, the vehicle
standards are a relatively uncontroversial move embraced by industry and
environmentalists alike," notes Eilperin. However not all are supportive of the new rules: "presumptive GOP presidential nominee Mitt Romney has vowed to overturn them if elected."
"Kevin
Kennedy, who directs the U.S. climate initiative at the World Resources
Institute, noted that light-duty vehicle emissions represent
approximately 17 percent of the country's total greenhouse gas emissions."
"These
rules represent one of the best opportunities for the administration to
take a bite out of emissions that are damaging the planet, and in a way
that's good for consumers and the auto industry," Kennedy said.
FULL STORY: Autos must average 54.5 mpg by 2025, new EPA standards are expected to say
Momentous Climate Plan Being Development by Obama
An historic plan to limit greenhouse gas emissions is being covertly developed by the Obama administration, reports Neela Banerjee. The plan could for the first time set limits on the country's biggest emitters: power plants.
Power Plants: A Win for the EPA
New rules from the US Environmental Protection Agency to regulate greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuel-fired power plants survived an attempt by 25 Republican-led states to block their implementation while their case is litigated.
Bigger, More Powerful Cars Cancel Out Improvements in Fuel Efficiency
As carmakers improve the fuel efficiency of some models, many American car buyers are purchasing big trucks and SUVs that still offer low MPGs.
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
Canada vs. Kamala: Whose Liberal Housing Platform Comes Out on Top?
As Canada votes for a new Prime Minister, what can America learn from the leading liberal candidate of its neighbor to the north?
The Five Most-Changed American Cities
A ranking of population change, home values, and jobs highlights the nation’s most dynamic and most stagnant regions.
Op-Ed: Why an Effective Passenger Rail Network Needs Government Involvement
An outdated rail network that privileges freight won’t be fixed by privatizing Amtrak.
‘Quality Work, Fast’: NC Gears up for Homebuilding After Helene, Trying to Avoid Past Pitfalls
The state will field bids to demolish, repair and rebuild homes in the mountains. After struggles in eastern NC, officials aim to chart a different course.
Washington State’s Parking Reform Law Could Unlock ‘Countless’ Acres for New Housing
A law that limits how much parking cities can require for residential amd commercial developments could lead to a construction boom.
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