Proposal will help naturally capture greenhouse gas emissions as part of Senate Democrats’ Clean Energy Future Plan
LANSING, Mich. (May 23, 2023) — Today, Chair Sue Shink (D-Northfield Twp.) and members of the Senate Committee on Natural Resources and Agriculture heard presentations on an initiative that would protect special places around the state by establishing a statewide goal of conserving 30 percent of Michigan’s land and water by 2030 to naturally capture greenhouse gas emissions.
“Michigan is uniquely positioned to be a national leader in conservation and sustainable development, which is why we need legislation tailored to protecting the environment while also allowing economic growth,” said Sen. Shink. “I am feeling energized by the presentations given today in support of this initiative and look forward to continuing to advocate for this and future legislation that prioritizes protecting Michigan’s environment.”
This plan would include maintaining and improving recreational opportunities for all Michiganders, expanding access in disproportionately impacted communities, and protecting biodiversity. This proposal is part of the “America the Beautiful” initiative on the federal level.
“30×30 policies are critical to sustaining the basic ecological functioning required to support human life. We must protect 30 percent of the land and water in Michigan by 2030 to preserve biodiversity, support carbon sequestration, and provide irreplaceable ecological processes,” said Tim Minotas, Legislative and Political Coordinator for Sierra Club Michigan. “These endeavors reflect the connection between communities that divisive politics often masks. The truth is that what happens in Houghton matters in Harper Woods, and what happens in River Rouge affects Lansing. Although we are saying we must act to protect land and water—it’s most accurate to say that we must act on 30×30 to protect people.”
“Audubon Great Lakes remains dedicated to the restoration and conservation of critical habitats for birds and wildlife in Michigan,” wrote Erin Ford, Conservation Manager for Audubon Great Lakes, in testimony submitted to the committee today. “We urge the Michigan Senate Natural Resources Committee to support and prioritize initiatives that
advance habitat restoration, recognizing its importance for the long-term sustainability of Michigan’s ecosystems and the diverse bird species and local communities that depend on them.”
Today’s discussion is a continuation of Sen. Shink and the Michigan Senate Democrats’ Clean Energy Future Plan announced last month, a bill package to help support Michigan’s ongoing efforts to become a more environmentally sustainable state as climate patterns continue to change.
By addressing key financial and accessibility issues with transitioning to renewable energy sources, the Clean Energy Future Plan allows more homes and businesses across the state to improve their energy usage. This plan includes proposals to:
- Cleaning the Electrical Grid;
- Energy Waste Reduction;
- Expand the Purview of the Michigan Public Service Commission;
- Codify Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development’s PA 116 Program;
- Clean Fuels Standard; and
- Repair and Decarbonize Homes and Businesses.
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