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.
Seattle Legalizes Co-Living
A new state law requires all Washington cities to allow co-living facilities in areas zoned for multifamily housing.
Central Florida’s SunRail Plans Major Expansion
The expanded train line will connect more destinations to the international airport and other important destinations.
Las Vegas Golf Course to Become Over 1,000 Units of Affordable Housing
The project is part of an initiative to build affordable housing on shuttered golf courses.
Cities and States Taking Action to Limit Rent-Setting AI
Federal prosecutors are charging a software company with using algorithms to artificially inflate rents.
BART to Raise Fares in January
The transit agency says it needs more state and federal support to meet its operating costs and avoid a growing budget gap.
Montreal Bike Share Breaks Ridership Record With 13 Million Rides
The Bixi system introduced a winter pilot project last year, leading to a rise in winter cycling.
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Skagit Transit
American Planning Association, Sustainable Communities Division
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
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Newport County Development Council: Connect Greater Newport
Rockdale County Board of Commissioners