New Jersey Announces Ambitious Climate Change Goals, Including Ban on Gas-Powered Vehicles by 2035
In a bid to combat climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, New Jersey has unveiled its ambitious goals for the future. The state plans to ban the sale of new gasoline-powered vehicles by 2035 and aims to transition public and private buildings from natural gas to electric heating and appliances.
New Jersey, under the leadership of the Democrat-controlled government, aims to reduce its emissions of planet-warming greenhouse gases by 80% by 2050. The state’s environmental protection commissioner, Shawn LaTourette, emphasizes that the plans should not be seen as heavy-handed mandates but rather as a necessary step to protect the environment.
The proposal to phase out the sale of internal combustion vehicles by 2035 drew criticism from some who argue that it should be a market-driven choice rather than a government mandate. John Burzichelli, a Democratic politician, expressed concerns over the use of the word mandate, stating that it raises concerns among New Jersey residents. However, supporters argue that the marketplace will naturally shift toward electric vehicles, and the state’s actions are in line with market trends.
Ray Cantor, from the New Jersey Business and Industry Association, also opposes mandates regarding gas-powered vehicles, citing concerns about the costs imposed on low and middle-income individuals. Cantor argues against limiting options for transportation and suggests that ride-sharing and public transportation may not be viable alternatives for everyone.
While various countries have committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions under the Paris climate accords, current actions are not sufficient to achieve the goal of limiting global temperature increase to 2°C above pre-industrial levels. China and India, significant emitters of greenhouse gases, still heavily rely on coal-fired power plants despite their pledges to reduce emissions.
New Jersey’s plan aligns with actions taken by other states such as Vermont, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Maine, which have adopted climate laws. The state aims to incentivize the transition to electric appliances and heat pumps in buildings to decarbonize the sector. The goal is to electrify at least 90% of residential and commercial buildings by 2050.
Anjuli Ramos, the New Jersey director of the Sierra Club, supports the state’s efforts to meet climate goals but emphasizes that the steps taken are not strict mandates. Ramos states that New Jersey is simply transitioning alongside the market trend towards electric vehicles and electric-powered buildings.
New Jersey has already enacted environmentally conscious measures, such as the ban on single-use plastic bags, which reduced pollution significantly. The state has also not banned gas appliances entirely, unlike San Francisco and New York City, but is encouraging the adoption of electric alternatives.
The New Jersey environmental commissioner draws a comparison to the past when collective action was taken to address pollution concerns. He cites the Clean Water Act in the 1970s, which successfully reduced pollution levels in rivers and improved air quality. The commissioner believes that similar decisive action is needed today to combat climate change.
As the world grapples with the urgent need to address climate change, New Jersey’s climate change goals reflect the state’s commitment to protect the environment. The proposed ban on gasoline-powered vehicles and the transition to electric-powered buildings reflect a growing global consensus on the importance of reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
While some critics argue against mandates and express concerns about the costs, advocates believe that these actions are necessary and aligned with market trends. New Jersey’s efforts, along with those of other states, contribute to the collective global effort to mitigate climate change and create a more sustainable future.
