Creating Affordable, Clean, and Healthy Communities for Vermonters
As 2024 draws to a close, the executive director of the Vermont Natural Resources Council, Lauren Hierl, shares a powerful message of optimism and determination to protect the environment we all cherish. Vermont’s identity is deeply intertwined with its natural beauty, and the connection to the land runs through the heart of every Vermonter. However, the pressing need to balance affordability with environmental sustainability looms large in our collective consciousness.
Affordability remains a significant issue for many Vermonters, with the current status quo proving unsustainable for numerous households. The costs of heating homes and transportation, particularly in times of crisis like the fuel oil price spike following the Russia-Ukraine conflict, pose challenges for residents across the state. The Global Warming Solutions Act of 2020 was enacted to address these issues by promoting stable, local heating sources and better transportation alternatives.
Protecting Vermont’s Greatest Assets
Recent years have seen Vermont grappling with increasingly severe floods, a consequence of climate change’s intensifying impacts. In response, the Flood Safety Act was passed to mitigate flood risks by enhancing development regulations near rivers and improving dam safety measures. These crucial steps aim to safeguard Vermonters’ lives and livelihoods while also reducing the economic burden on communities in the face of escalating flood threats.
Preserving Clean Water and Healthy Communities
The Vermont Clean Water Act of 2015 stands as a testament to the state’s commitment to restoring and maintaining water quality, epitomized by efforts to clean up Lake Champlain and other water bodies. Despite notable progress, challenges like algae blooms and pollution persist, necessitating continued action, including more effective regulation of farm pollution to safeguard Vermont’s waters for future generations.
Addressing PFAS Pollution and Affordable Housing
The presence of harmful chemicals like PFAS in Vermont’s water sources underscores the urgency of holding polluters accountable and banning toxic products to mitigate health risks and reduce healthcare costs. Legislative initiatives promoting affordable housing development aim to diversify housing options and revitalize communities while preserving natural landscapes and minimizing infrastructure expenses.
In conclusion, Vermont’s pursuit of affordable, clean, and healthy communities hinges on striking a harmonious balance between economic viability and environmental stewardship. By embracing policies that prioritize sustainability, affordability, and resilience, Vermont can pave the way for a brighter future that benefits all its residents.
Let’s work together to ensure that Vermont remains a place where families thrive, children flourish, and communities flourish in a sustainable environment that we can all be proud of.
