TCI Regional Policy Design Stakeholder Submissions

I'm a CT resident deeply concerned about climate change caused by carbon emissions and the inaction of our current federal government. That's why I feel that strong leadership must be carried out at the state and local levels; in particular, by the governors of our region.

To reduce carbon emissions to the extent necessary to avoid climate disaster, market forces will need to be harnessed to effect rapid and far-reaching change. The astounding growth of renewable energy is one example of the power of market forces to drive rapid sustainable development. By putting a price on carbon via a 'cap-and-trade' or 'cap-and-invest' program throughout the Northeast the external costs of carbon can be 'internalized' and an imperative for economic actors to move quickly towards carbon neutrality.

By joining a regional New England/Mid-Atlantic compact, CT can harness this much larger economic area as a 'force-multiplier' to drive other regions in a similar direction - if they wish to compete in our region. Similar to the power of California's market in driving auto emission reduction measures.

So I urge you to join in this promising regional initiative. I view climate change now as an existential threat on a level with nuclear proliferation, and one that will have to be addressed by leadership at the state level. As such, this is my #1 political concern as a Connecticut voter.

Many thanks for your attention to this.

James H. Whitcomb, Jr.

This is to urge the design of a regional low-carbon transportation policy proposal that would cap and reduce carbon emissions from the combustion of transportation fuels through a cap-and-invest program or other pricing mechanism… [and]… to complete the policy development process within one year, after which each jurisdiction will decide whether to adopt and implement the policy.

The challenge does not lie with a shortage of efficient technology. We possess all that we need. Steps to take:Set strict standards for the energy efficiency of all buildings. They are a major source of pollution. Ratings are easy to establish and monitor and with common sense upgrades. - coupled with heavy fines for non-compliers. Utilize advanced battery technology combined with solar and wind making it possible to have an extremely energy efficient home that is not even connected to the grid. This will work now in many parts of the county. The payback is fast, the results incredible. Develop and utilize high speed rail service that will minimize the heavy pollution caused by air travel (More pollution is generated by a coast to coast flight than if every passenger drove instead. Develop dedicated truck "piggy back rail service" between regional hubs. Of course local and accessible parking are key. Reward companies for staggering work hours to maximize traffic flow. Stop subsidies for Oil and Gas production and put the savings to research. If we are serious we can accomplish in a limited time frame.

Ct is a small state with a lot of traffic going through it. We need to encourage low carbon transportation for the health of our residents, the health of our environment, and for the health of the planet.

Strong reductions of carbon emissions and a hardening of our infrastructure is imperative. A sustainable future is at risk without decisive actions now, not differed.

We need to make changes now. We cannot keep putting the lives of future generations at risk. What is convenient to you know will suffocate your great grand kids. Please look beyond the convenience of fossil fuels to a sustainable alternative in which kids can breathe fresh air and don't have to worry like I do today.