MONTPELIER – Gov. Peter Shumlin today announced the formation and first meeting of the Vermont Climate Cabinet, a group of senior officials in his administration charged with leading the state toward reduced greenhouse emissions and reliance on fossil fuels.
“At a time when few if any states are focusing on climate change, Vermont is committed to doing everything possible to mitigate the threats and impacts,” the Governor said. The wild weather caused by climate change impacts the state at many levels, including increased snowfalls and flooding, unpredictable storms and more, he said.
The changes are leading to financial challenges as Vermont struggles to keep up with road and property damage increasingly linked to climate change, among other problems. The environmental threat is also critical.
“Climate change is the most serious environmental issue facing Vermont and our future,” said Deb Markowitz, Secretary of the Agency of Natural Resources and chair of the Vermont Climate Cabinet. “It’s a priority of the Governor’s and a personal priority for me to make sure that Vermont leads in the fight against climate change and that we are prepared to respond to the changes we are already experiencing.”
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http://vtdigger.org/2011/05/18/shumlin-forms-vermont-climate-cabinet/