Why It Matters
The preservation of the physical, chemical, and biological integrity of the earth’s ecosystem is essential for the maximum protection of public health and the environment. The interrelationships of air, water, and land resources should be recognized in designing environmental safeguards. The federal government should have a major role in setting standards for environmental protection and pollution control.
What We're Doing
Since the 1960s, we have been at the forefront of efforts to protect air, land, and water resources. Our approach to environmental protection and pollution control is one of problem-solving. The League’s environmental goals aim to prevent ecological degradation and to reduce and control pollutants before they go down the sewer, up the chimney or into the landfill. We support vigorous enforcement mechanisms, including sanctions for states and localities that do not comply with federal standards as well as substantial fines for noncompliance.
In 2023, we endorsed the Children's Fundamental Rights and Climate Recovery Resolution, which recognizes the disproportionate impact of the climate crisis on the health, economic opportunities, and fundamental rights of children and the need for a national, science-based climate recovery plan to meet necessary emissions reduction targets and stabilize the climate system.
The Summit brought together White House officials, health professionals, academics, and other stakeholders to provide communities with the tools to protect public health in the face of climate change.
The League sent a letter to the U.S. Senate opposing S. 1324 sponsored by Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV). The “Polluter Protection Act” will protect big polluters by blocking the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Clean Power Plan. Members of the LWVUS Lobby Corps will be visiting Senate offices to discuss this legislation.
The League is encouraging Congress to pass five pieces of legislation, known as the Frack Pack, that seek to keep our air and water safe while holding big polluters responsible for fracking.
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