MISSOURI

With the highest oil and gas prices on record, Missouri’s economy is hurting. By relying on non-renewable energy sources, we are also fueling global warming. In Missouri, where communities are already experiencing the effects of a slowing economy, global warming could result in a loss of 22,796 jobs! (i)

The root of this problem lies with our dependence on fossil fuels. Currently, Missouri relies on dirty-burning coal for almost 85% of our energy production. (ii)

Investing in green jobs, increasing energy efficiency, and building clean sources of energy like wind and solar, we can solve global warming while creating a sustainable economic future.

In Missouri we have the potential to generate more than double the energy we need from clean, renewable sources. (iii)

Missouri is already making progress toward greening our energy production. Last year, the state set a goal to increase energy production from renewable sources to 11% of the total energy production by 2020. Missouri has also enacted measures to encourage businesses and residents to reduce energy consumption. (iv)

hese are no doubt signs of progress, but further aggressive leadership must follow in order to address the threats posed by global warming.

SOURCES:

i. http://www.bluegreenalliance.org/site/c.enKIITNpEiG/b.3417259/

ii. http://getenergyactive.org/fuel/state.htm

iii. http://www.ucsusa.org/assets/documents/clean_energy/Plugging_In_Renewable_Energy.pdf

iv. http://www.pewclimate.org/what_s_being_done/in_the_states/rps.cfm