The Virginia Air Pollution Control Board today approved a proposal to begin a long-term regulatory process that could end Virginia’s participation in the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI).
Chesapeake Bay Foundation (CBF) Virginia Executive Director Peggy Sanner issued the following statement.
“We are disappointed in this decision by the Air Board to move forward with this regulatory process. Participation in RGGI helps Virginians across the Commonwealth protect their homes and businesses from flooding and it is good for the health of the Chesapeake Bay.
“About one-third of the nitrogen pollution that enters our waterways started as air pollution, which eventually falls to the ground or water with rain or snow. As participation in the RGGI program reduces the air pollution from power plants, it also reduces pollution in streams, rivers, and the Chesapeake Bay.
“RGGI also provides the only dedicated revenue in Virginia for community flood protection projects. Already, RGGI has helped kick-start dozens of flood preparedness efforts statewide from the Eastern Shore to Southwest Virginia. These funds are prioritized to nature-based projects, which also filter pollution and create wildlife habitat.
“Virginia’s leaders can support a healthy Bay while protecting communities from flooding by ensuring our continued participation in RGGI.”
