An important step for Kansas: Governor forms group to reduce CO2

Last week, I announced the formation of the Energy and Environmental Policy Advisory Group. This group will develop recommendations on how to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in Kansas.

This is an important step for our state; Kansas is joining 36 other states in developing a plan to combat climate change. We know that greenhouse gas emissions contribute to climate change, and as an agricultural state, Kansas is particularly vulnerable to the resulting droughts and floods. In addition, greenhouse gases have an adverse affect on the health of Kansans.

I have named Jack Pelton, chairman, president, and chief executive officer of Cessna Aircraft to lead this group. Jack is not only a prominent business leader, but he understands the need to grow our economy while at the same time protecting our environment and maximizing our natural resources.

I am confident that, as a state, Kansas can do our part in addressing climate change by adopting policies and strategies to reduce greenhouses gas emissions. We can also advance technologies to develop clean and renewable energy resources while making smart decisions to continue our growth and prosperity.

Kansas has already worked with partners in the energy sector to reduce our energy use through conservation and efficiency measures, and to set voluntary goals to increase the generation of wind power, one of our most abundant natural resources.

Our energy needs are growing, and the financial rules involving the costs and responsibilities for environmental protection are in flux at the national level. Kansas will be well-served to have this discussion now and to be ready for policy to be implemented at the federal level.

As Governor, it’s important to me to ensure that Kansas has a stable and reliable source of electricity that fosters strong economic growth. But it’s equally important to me to protect our environment and water supply for future generations. The recommendations of the Energy and Environmental Policy Advisory Group are an important step towards achieving these goals.

I look forward to working with them to begin a statewide dialogue about how we continue to grow our economy while taking appropriate action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in Kansas.