To understand what’s at stake, Oregon Environmental Council has launched a new project focused on how federal actions will affect Oregon’s ability to protect the environment and how we can stand strong for Oregon’s environment and the health of our communities, particularly our state’s most vulnerable populations.
In addition to cutting federal agency budgets and programs, drastic policy changes are afoot. President Trump’s first 100 days was filled with actions to halt our country’s efforts to address climate change. Fortunately, Oregon leaders have signaled a desire to be vigilant, particularly when it comes to fighting climate change. Under Governor Kate Brown’s leadership, Oregon joined the U.S. Climate Alliance, an initiative to uphold the Paris Climate Agreement. Oregon Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum joined with 14 other states, threatening to sue the EPA for violating the Clean Air Act.
In the months ahead, OEC will need your help in standing up for the environment and preventing actions at the federal level that undermine the ability of the State of Oregon to provide basic services in the areas of clean air, clean water, and community health.
On September 29, 2023, OEC gathered with a growing coalition of community-based organizations, lawmakers, and business groups following oral arguments heard by the Oregon Court of Appeals to rally behind the Oregon Climate Protection Program (CPP), which is under attack from the fossil fuel industry.OREGON’S CLIMATE PROTECTION PROGRAM
Oregon’s Climate Protection Program (CPP) is a cornerstone in our st
by Meagan Golec, Major Gifts Officer
When I was hired at OEC three years ago, I had a lot of nonprofit experience but had never worked in the environmental sphere. I came equipped with a deep love and appreciation for wild spaces, and a strong belief that we need a healthy environment to thrive. I knew that Oregon was considered an
Oregon just scored a major environmental victory! In a unanimous vote, the Environmental Quality Commission (ECQ) adopted the newly revised Climate Protection Program, reinstating the landmark policy at a time when climate action is critical.Now, Oregon’s most influential climate policy is back on the books thanks to the thoughtful work of Governor Kotek’s office and the Department o
Last month, OEC, Renewable Northwest, and our partners in the Oregon Clean Grid Collaborative (OCGC) joined in person with a diverse group of clean energy stakeholders from across Oregon for the first annual
Oregon’s future depends on a clean, resilient power grid – one that meets increasing demand, supports thriving local economies and fosters resilient communities.
This vision for a clean-energy future is within reach.
There are countless allies across Oregon – in environmental circles, community justice, academia, government and business – who share this vision for our future. Almost one year ago to the day, OEC brought these partners together to form the Oregon Clean Grid
The Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) just released draft rules to restore Oregon’s cornerstone Climate Protection Program (CPP), kicking off a short public comment period. Help us restore the CPP and hold polluters accountable!
QUICK LINKS TO TAKE ACTION:
-> Send this Letter to DEQ to Restore the C
In Texas, our summers were always hot. But not this hot. It was 81° the day I left Austin for Portland in late February of this year – what would have been a normal summer day, but in the midst of winter.Just a
When you think about water in Oregon, you might think about the Rogue River, Pacific Coast or Malheur Lake. However, some of the most important bodies of water in our state aren’t visible to the naked eye: they’re under our feet.
Known as “forever chemicals,” harmful PFAS chemicals can be found in the air, water, and soil of virtually every ecosystem on Earth. Distribution of PFAS varies widely – from high concentrations in states like Michigan and North Carolina to very low levels here in Oregon. Our state’s water utilities and water quality agencies are already studying the sources and level of PFAS in our local water systems. But there is still much to learn about how these chemica
Pulling out of international climate agreements. Cutting funds for programs that keep our drinking water safe. It seems, every week there is a new announcement from Washington, D.C. that signals our country’s water, air, and public health are under attack.
Cuts in federal agency budgets will put key state agencies at risk. If the proposed Fiscal Year 2018 budget for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is enacted, the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality will lose critical resources needed to protect community health, especially clean air and water.
