Iowa’s governor joined with governors of five other Midwestern states and the premier of Manitoba, Canada, today in signing a pledge to reduce carbon emissions. The pact was signed at a meeting of the Midwest Governors Association.
During a news conference in Wisconsin where the governors are meeting, Governor Chet Culver said the accord sets realistic goals. "For this to work, we need a call to action," Culver said. "We need the citizens…to step up to the plate."
Culver urged those who’re in the market for a car to purchase a hybrid vehicle or one that can burn the higher blend of ethanol. "Use as much flex-fuel as you can," Culver said. "Governor Rounds pointed out a real concern in the Midwest which is getting petroleum. Petroleum is approaching $100 a (barrel). We have a great alternative with flex-fuel, with biofuels."
Culver also encouraged Midwesterners to conduct an energy audit of their homes and businesses. "Get engaged with public meetings. Get engaged with your elected officials and be a part of how you’re going to help America and the world tackle this challenge…but a gold mine of opportunity," Culver said.
The agreement calls for a variety of actions, such as new attention on expanding the electric grid to ensure thousands of new megawatts of wind energy can be transmitted. It also seeks to implement incentives to discourage carbon emissions.