Framework for Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions: State of Washington, HB 2815
Many states have set goals to reduce their Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions over the next several decades. On February 7, 2007, Governor Gregoire of the State of Washington issued an executive order which established goals for GHC reductions to 1990 state levels by 2020, 25 percent below 1990 state levels by 2035, and 50 percent below 1990 state levels by 2050. The order also sets goals to reduce expenditures on imported fuel and increase jobs in the clean energy sector, and directs the Department of Ecology (DOE) and the Department of Community, Trade and Economic Development (DCTED) to lead stakeholders in a process that will consider a full range of policies and strategies to achieve the GHG emissions goals.
House Bill 2815 creates the frame work for reducing emissions in the state. This 2008 legislation defines the state's commitment to maintaining their role as a national leader in energy conservation and environmental stewardship efforts.
House Bill 2815:
- Authorizes a reporting system to monitor greenhouse gas emissions
- Establishes a process for maintaining a comprehensive inventory of greenhouse gas emissions to track the state's progress in achieving its greenhouse gas emission reductions
- Creates a green collar job training account to train and transition workers to clean energy jobs
- Calls for the development of a regional process to design a multi-sector, market-based system for regulating greenhouse gas emissions as one measure to achieve greenhouse gas reduction limits
Any party with an interest in an initiative.Reduction in, or elimination of, the use of natural and other energy resources. Also includes installations or modifications of equipment or systems intended to reduce energy use and costs.Greenhouse gases are a part of the Earth's atmosphere and are both naturally occurring and the result of human chemical processes. The most common greenhouse gases are carbon dioxide, water vapor, methane, nitrous oxide, ozone, and chlorofluourocarbons. These gases trap heat and thus contribute to the warming of the planet. See also CFCS and GREENHOUSE EFFECT.The ability or potential of a physical body to do work. The most common forms of energy are heat, light, mechanical (moving parts), and electrical.
