I mentioned in last month’s Quest that Governor Markell issued a report titled “The Climate Framework for Delaware,” which addressed three important issues: reducing greenhouse gas emissions (climate mitigation); reducing climate impacts (adaptation); and minimizing flooding.

DeIPL, of which First Unitarian is a member congregation, plans to submit comments on the report during the public comment period that ends May 30. 

If you read the report, you will see that the section dealing with climate mitigation is the weakest by far. The state government has not yet seriously addressed how to reduce carbon emissions; neither have most of us. It’s time for all of us to take personal responsibility for our own actions and choices.

In New Castle County we have formed a reading/discussion group using the book, Cooler Smarter: Practical Steps for Low-Carbon Living, from the Union of Concerned Scientists.  (There is a copy in the church library and I have additional copies I can lend.) The book has many proven ideas for ways you can reduce your family’s energy annual energy expenses and carbon emissions by 20%. For most of us, this would save $500-$600 and about three tons of carbon dioxide emissions each year. Email Chad Tolman or call him at 302-478-3516 for details.