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Michigan strives for net-zero emissions by 2050
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has released a plan to become carbon neutral in the next 30 years, mitigating the impacts of climate change and creating clean energy jobs.
The Michigan Healthy Climate Plan makes the Great Lakes state the nine to commit to a carbon neutral economy.
The Executive Directive includes reducing emissions 28 percent below 1990 levels in the next five years, a goal the state has also agreed to as part of the U.S. Climate Alliance.
Immediate actions will include increasing energy efficiencies and becoming carbon neutral in new state buildings and facilities as well as establishing an advisory council within the Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) to carry out objectives. The council will include the director of the Michigan Department of Agriculture along with other department directors and 14 Michigan residents.
EGLE will also evaluate potential impacts of proposed energy generation sources and alternatives by utilities that align with the directive.
Michigan Agri-Business Association President Chuck Lippstreu says agricultural climate solutions can also unlock new economic opportunities for farmers and rural communities and he looks forward to showcasing ag innovation in that space.
Consumers Energy, DTE, and Ford Motor Co. have also committed be becoming carbon neutral by 2050 if not before. A link with more details and how to apply to the council can be found here.