(February 10, 2021) Today, Marnie Urso, Policy Director for Audubon Great Lakes, issued the following statement in support of the reintroduction of the Clean Energy Jobs Act (CEJA), HB 804, by the Illinois House. This comprehensive clean energy legislation would place Illinois on the path to 100 percent renewable energy by 2050.
“This is an opportunity for Illinois to be a leader in creating a cleaner and healthier future. Audubon Great Lakes applauds Representative Ann Williams (IL-11) for her leadership in reintroducing the Clean Energy Jobs Act (CEJA). This bill will move the state towards a clean energy future that will benefit our economy, our health, and protect the birds that we love from the threats of climate change.
Audubon's science shows that two-thirds of North American bird species are at increasing risk of extinction due to global temperature rise. In Illinois alone, the future of 29 percent of bird species are at risk due to the impacts of climate change.
If we take action now, we can help improve the chances for iconic Illinois birds like the Bobolink and Cerulean Warbler. Audubon supports common-sense solutions, like the Clean Energy Jobs Act, which reduce carbon emissions at the speed and scale necessary to protect birds in Illinois and the places they need while advancing jobs, equity and economic opportunity for communities across the state.
Birds are letting us know that we can’t wait. Audubon Great Lakes is hopeful for the passage of this legislation by Illinois’ General Assembly this session.”
About Audubon Great Lakes
Audubon Great Lakes is a regional office of Audubon, learn more at gl.audubon.org and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
The National Audubon Society protects birds and the places they need, today and tomorrow. Audubon works throughout the Americas using science, advocacy, education, and on-the-ground conservation. State programs, nature centers, chapters, and partners give Audubon an unparalleled wingspan that reaches millions of people each year to inform, inspire, and unite diverse communities in conservation action. A nonprofit conservation organization since 1905, Audubon believes in a world in which people and wildlife thrive.
TO REQUEST AN INTERVIEW: Emily Osborne, emily.osborne@audubon.org, 414-841-5273
