San Francisco, Calif. – Underscoring the need for California to lead the nation on climate change, representatives of Audubon California today reiterated the organization’s support for Senate Bill 100, which will face a critical vote in the State Assembly in the coming weeks. The bill would set an overall target of 100% carbon-free energy for California by 2045.
Audubon California has been an active supporter of the legislation since it was first introduced in 2017.
“SB 100 represents a necessary step forward in the continuing fight against global warming in California, and sets a standard for the rest of the country," said Sarah Rose, executive director of Audubon California. "California can and will lead. The future is carbon-free, and this bill is a critical step on our path to that future.”
SB 100, authored by State Senator Kevin de León, is the latest in a series of legislative proposals that build on the state’s landmark goals for greenhouse gas reduction set in 2006 under the Global Warming Solutions Act. To achieve the goal of 100% carbon-free energy by 2045, SB 100 accelerates targets set in 2015 legislation for 50% clean renewable energy by 2030. SB 100 moves this deadline to 2026 and establishes a new RPS benchmark of 60% by 2030.
This is an ambitious goal, and California is already well on the way toward it. Just last month, the California Energy Commission announced that the state is a full four years ahead of its goals to reduce carbon emissions. The state already gets more than 30% percent of its electric retail sales coming from renewable sources such as wind, solar, geothermal, and small hydroelectric – and that percentage is growing fast.
“Every time California sets a goal, we find a way to reach it ahead of schedule, to the benefit of our families, communities, economy, and our natural environment,” said Rose.
According to Audubon researchers, 314 North American birds will be at greater risk of extinction due to climate change over the next 80 years, including 170 bird species that occur in California. Birds are excellent indicators of environmental health, for other wildlife and people.
“Aggressive action is necessary to ensure that future generations can share in the California we now enjoy,” added Rose. “Our birds are an important part of our state’s natural legacy.”
About Audubon California
Audubon California is building a better future for California by bringing people together to appreciate, enjoy and protect our spectacular outdoor treasures. With more than 350,000 members and supporters in California and an affiliated 48 local Audubon chapters, Audubon California is a field program of the National Audubon Society. More information is available at ca.audubon.org.
