Three Things: This week, we’re sharing updates on VECAN’s Clean Heat Standard webinar, the EPA’s recent letter regarding agricultural pollution in Vermont, and Green Mountain Transit’s public meetings on proposed service cuts.
Stay informed, connected, and engaged—three things.
Please join us on Monday September 16th at noon for a webinar on Vermont’s progress towards cutting climate pollution in the thermal sector and, in particular, the process underway at the Public Utility Commission to explore a “Clean Heat Standard.” Hear what’s happening related to crafting a draft model rule to potentially establish a thermal performance standard to cut high-cost, planet-warming fossil fuel reliance. Get an update on the timeline for this important process, find out about the core components under consideration and hear how you might help ensure any CHS delivers on its pollution-reduction goals, while also cutting energy costs and benefiting all Vermonters. Register here.
This week, in response to a petition we filed in partnership with the Conservation Law Foundation and the Lake Champlain Committee, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a letter stating that Vermont is failing to regulate farm pollution to the standards set out in the Clean Water Act (CWA). In the letter, the EPA directs the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources to draw up a plan to address agricultural pollution and come into compliance with the CWA. EPA’s recommendation is a step in the right direction to provide clarity to farmers about the rules surrounding water pollution and to properly address water pollution from farms. Read the full letter here.
Protecting our waters while helping farmers thrive is crucial for the health of our state’s landscape. We’ll be continuing to track this issue along with other key water quality policies. Read more about our water policy work here.
Green Mountain Transit needs your help! They are facing significant financial challenges that require immediate attention, and are holding a series of public meetings to talk about possible changes to GMT’s services.
Your experience and connection to the your communities are invaluable, and we encourage you to participate in one of their upcoming meetings. Find the draft service reduction plan here and the meeting schedule below. Show your support for public transit and help shape the future of GMT.
Upcoming meetings:
Thursday, September 12, 2024 @ 4:00 PM-6:00 PM
Brownell Library 6, Lincoln Street, Essex Junction
Tuesday, September 17, 2024 @ 12:00 PM
Join Zoom Meeting
Video Conference: https://us02web.
Meeting ID: 750 755 1826
Tuesday, September 17, 2024 @ 5:30 PM
Majestic 10 Theater (Oscars room, top of the stairs to the left of concessions)
190 Boxwood St., Williston