Initiative aims to reduce carbon emissions

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A coalition of nine members of the Transportation and Climate Initiative (TCI) has announced a plan to design a new regional low-carbon transportation policy, which would cap and reduce carbon emissions from the combustion of transportation fuels.

Proceeds from the policy would be invested in low-carbon and more resilient transportation infrastructure.

Additional goals include improving transportation equity for underserved and overburdened populations, creating economic opportunity, and reducing climate-changing pollution.

The coalition plans to have its policy written within one year. Once it is completed, each member will vote on whether to adopt and implement the policy.

The coalition members include the governments of Connecticut, Delaware, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, and Washington, D.C.

“The need to address climate change globally and here at home has never been more urgent,” Shawn M. Garvin, Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control secretary, said. “Climate change is no longer merely a threat to future generations; rising seas, excessive rainfall, and increasing temperatures are already impacting Delaware’s infrastructure, economy, and quality of life. Delaware is committed to continuing to be engaged in this conversation to determine the best path forward for this important issue.”

TCI is based at the Georgetown Climate Center.