Reality Check

Global warming is real and it’s here

We can no longer ignore the fact that our planet is heating up at a frightening rate, and humans are at least partly to blame.

Admitting that there is a problem is a good first step, but we need practical, viable solutions. Senate Democrats believe an investment in clean, abundant water; alternative fuels and energies; and the safe disposal of dangerous toxins is an investment in Washington’s economy, families and future.

In 2005, we:

• Adopted emissions standards for cars to reduce air pollution.
• Became the first state in the country to adopt “green” building standards for new state-funded buildings and public schools.
• Required that new appliances with primarily commercial uses must meet energy efficiency standards to be sold or installed in the state.

But we were just getting started. Significant environmental legislation passed in 2006 includes:

• Renewable fuels. To help ensure farmers that there is a market for biofuels, we developed minimum renewable fuel content requirements and fuel quality standards in the alternative fuels market. The bill requires that by the end of 2008, all automotive fuels sold in Washington contain at least 2 percent biofuels: either biodiesel —a fuel made from vegetable oil — or, in the case of gasoline, ethanol.
• Energy Freedom Fund. To help farmers produce biofuels, we created the Energy Freedom Fund within the Department of Agriculture. The program will provide low-cost financing for the creation of renewable fuels. Eligible projects include the construction of facilities to convert farm products or waste into electricity or gas and liquid fuels.
• Electronic waste. Improperly disposed e-waste can release dangerous heavy metals into the environment. We passed a bill requiring manufacturers of TVs, computers and monitors to set up collection and recycling programs for unwanted items in each county in Washington.
• Phosphates-free dish detergent. Phosphates spur the growth of algae in lakes and rivers, resulting in ailing or dead fish. Washington became the first state in the country to phase out the amount of phosphates in automatic dishwashing detergent.
• Oil spill prevention. To make sure our waterways remain as pristine as possible, we required the Department of Ecology to evaluate the adequacy of oil spill contingency plans and conduct random oil spill practice drills.
• Sewage disposal. In response to concerns about failing on-site sewage systems near marine waters, we asked local health officers in 12 counties bordering Puget Sound to develop and approve on-site program management plans. The capital budget includes $1.5 million for on-site sewage replacement.

As we celebrate Earth Day 2006, we know that there is still much more work to do. We can ensure that more of our electricity is generated from renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar. We can conserve our forests, which absorb carbon from the air. We can reduce waste by promoting recycling and composting. We can coordinate our efforts with other states and other countries.

Senate Democrats remain committed to keeping the Evergreen State green, and creating a healthier future for our families.