Author: Clean Wisconsin

Data suggests optimistic outlook for meeting future priorities including EPA’s carbon standards MADISON — Wisconsin’s utilities are two years ahead of schedule in meeting an important milestone for clean energy. A Wisconsin Public Service Commission report released today shows that the utilities in 2013 collectively surpassed the 10 percent goal for renewable generation established in the

The first-ever standards for carbon pollution at U.S. power plants represent a historic moment in Wisconsin and throughout the nation for the good of public health, the environment and the economy. The standards, unveiled today in draft form, call for a 30 percent emissions reduction by 2030 below 2005 levels.

Numerous opportunities for compliance and cleaner air exist within current programs

MADISON — A historic moment draws near as EPA prepares to unveil the first-ever standards to curb carbon pollution from power plants, which are currently the source of 40 percent of American carbon emissions. EPA’s carbon limits represent a major step forward for cleaner air, and a major step that Wisconsin has potential to make in stride.

Wisconsin fishing, agriculture and Great Lakes are areas of continued concern

MADISON — Today’s release of the third U.S. National Climate Assessment underscores the need for common-sense action to reverse the effects of climate change in Wisconsin, where numerous threats to agriculture, trout fishing and the ecosystem have been building for years.

Tuesday’s Supreme Court decision upholding EPA rule will benefit Wisconsin residents

MADISON — State by state, air pollution from coal-fired power plants is a deadly export. Here in Wisconsin, we’re breathing pollution from states as far away as Texas, Virginia and North Carolina. The smog and soot are tied to heart attacks, bronchitis and asthma. Wind patterns make us a bad neighbor as well, whisking our pollutants all over the map to communities in Michigan, New Jersey, South Dakota and many others.

This weekend’s fishing opener comes amid new information about Wisconsin’s mercury threat

MADISON — New  analysis shows that Wisconsin’s already impaired waters remain at risk of taking on even more of the harmful toxin from nearly 1 million old mercury-containing thermostats. As anglers throughout Wisconsin prepare to cast lines for the big catch during this weekend’s much-anticipated fishing opener, it’s important to remain aware of the mercury threat and fish consumption guidelines.

Renowned adventurer Jon Turk serves as latest installment of Doug La Follette Environmental Speakers Program

MADISON — More than 40 years of global exploration have shown Jon Turk, first-hand, that the world is a changing place. As part of Clean Wisconsin’s Doug La Follette Environmental Speakers Program, Turk, a National Geographic Top 10 Adventurer, gave a talk on his experience with climate change Saturday at the Lussier Family Heritage Center in Madison.

MADISON — April 22, 2014, marks the 44th observance of Earth Day, a day to promote responsible citizenship and sound policy to preserve natural resources and lay the foundation for a healthier future. The following are story angles and experts offered by Clean Wisconsin to assist in your environmental reporting needs. In addition to these angles, Clean Wisconsin’s staff is available for comment on environmental issues.

Local residents want safe, clean drinking water

ADAMS — Nearly 100 people attended a public hearing to call for action over dangerously high nitrate levels in the groundwater near a Central Wisconsin heifer operation. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources granted the hearing as it considers an exemption for nitrate contamination at Burr Oak Heifers in Richfield, Adams County.