Michigan Environmental Council, Michigan League of Conservation Voters, Ecology Center and Environmental Law & Policy Center applauded President Joe Biden’s executive action re-committing the United States to the Paris Climate Agreement on his first day in office.  

“During the past four years, the Trump administration rolled back, weakened, or eliminated more than 100 environmental and public health safeguards which increased air and water pollution that put peoples’ health at risk,” said Charlotte Jameson, program director for legislative affairs, energy and drinking water at the Michigan Environmental Council. “The previous administration only made the climate crisis worse by dismissing scientists, ignoring environmental justice and threatening our health and environment. President Biden is outlining his vision for a more resilient nation and inviting everyone to join the effort.” 

On Tuesday, Jan. 19, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer released the Michigan COVID Recovery Plan. Included was a commitment to a clean energy jobs training program. Michigan Environmental Council President/CEO Conan Smith issued the following statement in response:

“Gov. Whitmer’s commitment to train Michiganders for clean energy jobs is just what we need during a pandemic that has left many people unemployed, many others underemployed and an economy struggling. What’s more, Gov. Whitmer’s decision was grounded in environmental justice. The training program will provide good, secure jobs to those that have long been systematically gatekept from them, and it is in tandem with her commitment to statewide carbon neutrality by 2050. Both results will make Michigan and its residents healthier and more resilient.”

The fog of anxiety was thick for many as we trudged through an exhausting election and an ever-present pandemic. Yet, bright lights cut through.

Laws, decisions and amendments passed at 2020’s end will make the health of Michigan’s people, places and finances stronger in 2021 and beyond.

Check out the wins from late 2020 that MEC helped secure. Let’s ring the bells once more!