By Gary S.E. Lagerloef
Kitsap Sun
January 29, 2009
The new Bainbridge High School building that uses 25 percent less energy than other buildings of similar size, (Bainbridge High’s New Building, Jan. 16), represents the innovative path our society must follow to reduce energy use and greenhouse gas emissions.
As a local scientist who studies satellite data to understand ocean and climate variability, I had the honor of speaking to the Senate Environment, Water and Energy committee last Friday. I presented satellite measurements that show rising global sea level (about 1 foot per century), loss of ice from Greenland and Antarctica, and melting Arctic sea ice. All are linked to rising global temperatures, which are driven primarily by increased levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide from burning fossil fuels.
The Legislature will soon consider legislation to limit carbon dioxide emissions in Washington State. This will advance our state’s environmental leadership and help forge a comprehensive national policy that will restore U.S. leadership to reduce global warming emissions.
This legislation deserves strong public support; along with our collective efforts find ways to reduce energy use in our daily lives. Please urge Senator Rockefeller and Representatives Rolfes and Appleton to champion effective legislation to reduce carbon emissions in our state.
Gary S.E. Lagerloef
Bainbridge Island