Dear Editor,

Since progress on the federal level has been lagging, it has led more states to try and do their part to reduce both air pollution and cut carbon emissions.  Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham has made improving New Mexico’s air quality an increasingly high priority and is positioning New Mexico to become a leader in clean energy.

This year, the governor might have the chance to sign a bill into a law which will both improve New Mexico’s air quality and reduce the effects of climate change.  This Clean Transportation Fuels Standard (HB 41) incentivizes companies to produce cleaner transportation fuels, which will reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve New Mexico’s air quality. Production of cleaner fuels means less air pollution, and less air pollution means better chronic respiratory health for the citizens of New Mexico.

According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, the transportation sector is the largest contributor of greenhouse gas emissions in the country.  These emissions directly worsen our air quality.  The Environmental Protection Agency reports that carbon dioxide makes up almost 80% of all greenhouse gas emissions. Therefore, the transportation sector, encompassing cars, buses, fleets of trucks, and planes, is an enormous producer of carbon dioxide.

This is why I support the Clean Transportation Fuels Standard.  It will reduce the carbon emissions of the largest carbon-emitting sector in the U.S., and the cost savings and positive results for public health will be felt by all.

Sincerely,
Shelley Mann-lev
Executive Director, New Mexico Health Professionals for Climate Action