ELM's 2013-2014 Legislative Priorities
ELM has identified 11 priority bills, in addition to the budget, to target for the 2013-2014 season.
Senate Ways & Means Releases FY 2014 Budget
ELM and other environmental colleagues analyze the Senate's FY2014 Budget, in hopes of seeking amendments to restore additional funding for a number of programs.
ELM testifies at Zoning Reform Hearing
ELM testifies for H.1859, "An Act Promoting the Planning and Development of Sustainable Communities Bill."
ELM Urges Legislature to Protect Public Lands
The ELM, along with several other conservation organizations submitted a joint testimony for the S.361, "An Act to Protect Natural Resources of the Commonwealth."
Joint Committee on Environment, Natural Resources, & Agriculture Public Hearing
The Joint Committee on Environment, Natural Resources & Agriculture will be holding a Public Hearing on matters relative to Agriculture, Dairy, Forests, Pets, and Snowmobiles.
Brayton Point is (Still) Burning Dirty: A Snapshot of Toxic Power
Clean Water Action and the Coal Free Massachusetts Coaltion released a report on the Brayton Point Power Station's 2012 emissions, which is still deemed as dirty and deadly.
Boston Building Energy Ratings Ordinance Passes
Boston City Council passes BERDO, an energy rating ordinance that will help communities become more energy efficient.
Senate Ways & Means to Release Budget Wednesday
The Senate will release its budget on Wednesday, May 15th.
Dam and Seawall Repair Hearings
Senate to Release Budget Soon
The Senate on Thursday adopted an order calling for amendments to the fiscal 2014 Senate budget to be filed by 3 p.m. Friday, May 17, with the bill scheduled for floor debate beginning on Wednesday, May 22.
Corporate Council Member Eastern Bank Signs Climate Declaration
Eastern Bank, along with more than 40 major U.S. companies, is a signatory to the Climate Declaration issued by BICEP (Business for Innovative Climate & Energy Policy).
MassDEP Seeks Comment on Proposed Wetland, Waterways & Wastewater Regulatory Reform
The Dept. of Environmental Protection has extended the deadline for comments on revised regulations on wetlands, waterways and wastewater.
Patrick Administration Launches GWSA Dashboard
The Patrick Administration launches the GWSA Dashboard, a tool designed with ELM's leadership for the public to track the state's progress toward GHG reduction targets.
ELM Releases FY2014 Green Budget
Global Warming Solutions Act Oversight Hearing
Administration officials from Energy and Environmental Affairs, Transportation, and Housing & Economic Development provided updates about progress made to date for the Global Warming Solutions Act.
House Completes Budget
The House of Representatives finished taking up amendments and passed its FY 2014 budget.
Senate Passes Transportation Funding Bill
Home Stretch for Transportation Funding
This week the Senate put forward its transportation proposal and will be debating and voting on it tomorrow.
House Ways and Means Committee Releases FY 2014 Budget
Yesterday, the House Ways and Means Committee released its budget and we saw a number of increases over last year's budget and some cuts as well.
Regulatory Reform Information Sessions Announced
The Mass. Dept. of Environmental Protection has agreed to hold two public information sessions on proposed regulatory reforms.
Stop & Shop Announces Green Advancements
Stop & Shop, member of the ELM Corporate Council, continues to strive for better environmental stewardship, as they unveil their new LEED-certified Wayland store.
Boston Building Energy Rating Ordinance
ELM President George Bachrach testified in favor of Mayor Menino's proposed new ordinance requiring large property owners to disclose their energy usage.
Legislators Must Support Required Transportation Funding
Legislators are trying to compromise with the Governor's request of $1 billion to support the Commonwealth's transportation infrastructure but is their compromise sufficient to mend this broken system?
Transportation Day on the Hill
Tuesday, April 2, 10:00 to 1:00
If you walk, run, bike, drive or take public transportation to get around in Massachusetts, you want to be on the State House Steps for this event.
Jimmy Tingle: The Battle for the Bottle Bill
Saturday, April 6, 7:00 pm
Join Jimmy Tingle for a night filled with comedy, music and conversation on updating the Bottle Bill.
House Transportation Financing Package Likely Released Next Week
There is a high chance that the House will reveal a transportation revenue and reform package at the end of next week.
Environmental Bond Bill Filed
On March 15th, the Patrick administration filed a $911 million environmental bond bill to support environmental capital spending needs through FY 2017.
ELM Key Participant in NWF Annual Meeting
A team of ELM superheroes flew down to the Albuquerque, NM to attend the National Wildlife Federation's Annual Meeting. The hot topics were on the importance of green jobs and fighting voter suppression.
Sustainable Water Management Iniative Grants Announced
The Patrick administration has approved $929,000 in grant funding to maintain healthy rivers and streams through water conservation programs.
2013 CPA Trust Fund Distribution
The Community Preservation Act was so successful that it has been reformed so that matching funds would continue to be available for communities who want to preserve their historic sites, open space or create affordable housing.
Transportation Oversight Hearing
The Joint Committee on Transportation held an oversight hearing on tackling transportation financing this year.
Transportation Bond Bill
Governor Patrick releases a ten-year transportation bond bill that includes all of the funding to carry out the state's transportation plans. Can you guess for how much?
Transporation Poll and Report Released
MassINC's poll results on transportation finance displays voters' attitudes toward increasing transportation investment. MassINC also released a new report on regional tranporation authority investments.
ELM in Boston Globe: How to Get the State Transportation System Back on Track
ELM President George Bachrach and A Better City President Rick Dimino comment on the need for substantial investment in our transportation system in a recent Boston Globe Podium piece.
ELM Testifies at Budget Hearing
ELM President George Bachrach testified before a hearing of the House and Senate Ways and Means Committees on the FY 2014 budget.
Transportation Funding News
ELM Corporate Council Chairman Rick Mattila joined T4M staff & legislators at an event to promote investment in our transportation system. Speaker DeLeo addresses Greater Boston Chamber on the need for new revenues to support our transportation investments.
Hearings on MassDEP Regulatory Changes
MassDEP will host a series of public hearings on proposed revisions to different environmental regulations to cope with MassDEP's various budget cuts.
On the Lighthearted Side: Bachrach and Berkowitz Discuss Food
Roger Berkowitz, Legal Sea Foods CEO and ELM board member, hosts ELM President George Bachrach on his Boston Herald blog for a conversation about ELM and FOOD!
ELM'S Green Budget in the Media
ELM VP for Policy Nancy Goodman and our FY 2014 Green Budget report is featured in an article on Wickedlocal.com on the importance of adequate environmental funding. The article was picked up elsewhere locally too.
Obama set to Nominate Massachusett's McCarthy EPA Head
ELM is excited to learn that President Obama intends to nominate Massachusetts' own Gina McCarthy to become the next EPA Administrator. We wish her all of the best!
Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative Even Stronger
ELM applauds the successful efforts by Governor Patrick to strengthen the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI),
New Nation-Leading Energy Efficiency Plans
With the help of the DPU's approval of a set of 3-year energy efficiency plans, Mass continues to lead nation in cost-effective efficiency investments.
Updated Bottle Bill: 2 Big Developments
The Updated Bottle Bill gains more support on Beacon Hill than ever before. Fueled by the Bottle Bill's increase support, EOEEA Secretary Rick Sullivan propose that bottle industries should pay higher handling fees.
NWF's Wildlife in a Warming World
The NWF released a new report looking at the potential impacts of rising temperatures and changing weather patterns on wildlife and sea life in New England.
Governor's FY '14 Budget Released
After annoucing his plan to support transportation and education, Governor Patrick's budget plan for FY '14 also shows more emphasis on the environment.
Preserve the Trust
An easy way to protect what you care for is to change your license plate! By switching to "Preserve the Trust" license plates, you can help environmental protection and education projects.
Big Transportation News
Patrick responds to MassDOT's new transportation plan that discusses the necessary funding needed to make our transportation system more efficient and cost-effective.
Environmental Legislation Co-Sponsoring Success
ELM and fellow environmental advocates gathered at the State House to connect with freshmen and long-standing legislative allies on key ELM priorities.
Patrick Signs Removal and Repair of Dams Bill
In a victory for environmentalists, Patrick signs legislation creating a loan and grant program to facilitate the repair or removal of unneeded dams.
Corporate Council News
New Board Member Rick Mattila to chair ELM’s Corporate Council.
Two new members join the Council:
Jay Cashman leads Jay Cashman, Inc. and Matt Patsky is the CEO and managing partner at Trillium Asset Management, LLC
New England Green Power Choices
ELM congratulates Mass Energy and NSTAR on joining to bring Massachusetts energy users green power generated in the Commonwealth and in New England.
NWF Agreement Protects Right Whales
In a win-win-win for whales, industry, and the climate, the National Wildlife Federation has announced a major agreement to protect critically-endangered North Atlantic right whales from activities related to offshore wind energy development.
Midyear Environmental Budget Cuts
Patrick administration announces environmental budgets cut - part of overall state budget reduction of 1%.
Lower figures are new starting point for ELM meetings with legislative leadership and Green Budget FY 2014 development.
RGGI Emissions Cap Must be Lower for MA to Reach 2020 Target
RGGI must go beyond currently proposed plans to reduce emissions.
ELM is committed to seeing Massachusetts achieve its emissions reductions targets and calls for a lower RGGI cap.
Corporate Council Focuses on Transportation, Energy Efficiency
The MBTA is on the verge of bankruptcy and the transportation system in Massachusetts is generally in disrepair. What further reforms are required and how will we fund them?
ELM Welcomes New Board Members
Rick Mattila was a key player in developing Genzyme's environmental practices.
Pete Pedersen is founder and Managing Principal of Renova Partners, investors in the recovery and development of brownfields.
Full House for ELM's Lawyers & Friends Reception
There was high energy in the room with a full house of environmental lawyers, consultants, government officials and corporate sponsors gathered at the annual Lawyers and Friends Reception to hear Treasurer Grossman speak on properly funding transit and state infrastructure.
ELM and UCS Climate Change Action Plan Rally a Success
ELM and UCS's emergency climate change action plan rally Sunday, Nov. 25th drew over 200 attendees to hear US Congressman Ed Markey speak. Economic impacts of climate change beyond clear environmental ones were the focus. An action plan to prevent the potential devastation of Boston was discussed.
Markey Foot Bridge Dedication at Wonderland T
ELM President George Bachrach was with Congressman Ed Markey and staff at the dedication of a foot bridge from Wonderland T station to the beach - allowing access to the beach without a car.
Environmental Collaborative Meets in Framingham
The Massachusetts Environmental Collaborative held its fall meeting Nov. 15th at the New England Wild Flower Society in Framingham to discuss key issues with State Representative Anne Gobi (5th Worcester), chair of the Joint Committee on Environment, Natural Resources and Agriculture.
ELM Board & Corporate Council Member Tedd Saunders Quoted
Tedd Saunders is quoted in an article from Allvoices.com on reducing energy use at the Saunders Hotel Group, where he is chief sustainability officer.
ELM Testifies at Off Shore Wind Hearing
On Tuesday, ELM Managing Director Ken Pruitt testified in favor of proposed leases for wind energy in federal waters off the Massachusetts coast. The area could produce 4 gigawatts of wind energy - enough to power 1.7 million homes.
State Council Approves Updated Energy Efficiency Plan
From State House News Service - A state council approved a plan to expand savings associated with natural gas and electricity energy efficiency efforts. The state's investor-owned utilities would be called upon to deliver $8.9 billion in benefits with a 3-year budget of $2 billion.
Off-Highway Vehicle Advisory
A new Massachusetts law changes rules on the use of off-highway vehicles (OHVs) and recreation vehicles - including all-terrain vehicles, off-highway motorcycles, dirt bikes, and snowmobiles.
Backlash Against Bill Koch
Outrage is arising over recent comments in the Cape Cod Times by Bill Koch, coal and oil magnate and major funder of the group opposing Cape Wind. Read ELM President George Bachrach's letter in response.
Climate Change Media Coverage Critical
In a recent Boston Phoenix article, climate activist Wen Stephenson delivered a timely, compelling, and altogether much-need argument: that the mainstream media needs to start addressing the very real consequences of climate change head on.
Little Attention Paid To Climate Change In Brown-Warren Race
ELM President George Bachrach quoted in WBUR piece.
ELM Corp. Council Member Northeast Utilities Ranked #1 Utility in Newsweek's Green Rankings
ELM Corporate Council Member Northeast Utilities has been recognized as the top utility in the nation for its environmental stewardship in Newsweek’s 4th annual Green Rankings.
MassDOT Announces Ambitious Goal for Non-Car Transportation Options
Good news! MassDOT announces ambitious "mode shift" goal for Massachusetts - to triple the share of travel by residents using transit, biking and walking - key to the state reaching targets for greenhouse gas emission reductions mandated by 2008's Global Warming Solutions Act.
Exposing the Dirty Money Behind Cape Wind's Opposition
Environmental groups including ELM, CLF, and NWF have formed Cape Wind Now to get to the truth about fossil fuel magnate Bill Koch's funding of Cape Wind opposition.
Massachusetts Still #1 in Energy Efficiency
According to Governor Deval Patrick "Our Green Communities Act is cutting our dependence on imported energy sources, creating jobs, and leading the way to a more sustainable energy future for Massachusetts."
ELM Honors Senator Brownsberger
ELM presented State Senator Will Brownsberger with an ELM "Environmental Champion" for 2012 award at a gathering September 20th at the home of former Belmont State Representative Anne Paulsen to introduce ELM's work on environmental protection, climate change and mass transit.
MassDOT Meetings
MassDOT kicks off 15 public meetings next week in advance of developing a long term financing plan for the state's transportation system. ELM, as a member of Transportation for MA (T4MA), takes a lead role in promoting a long term comprehensive funding solution for a 21st century system.
NWF Report: Offshore Wind Energy Turning Point
Massachusetts can create jobs while powering homes and businesses with local, clean energy - but only if elected officials and regulators take the right steps now - according to a report released by the National Wildlife Federation (NWF), ELM, and local partners.
State Finalizes Biomass Rules
The state released its final biomass regulations in mid-August. We applaud the state for its care, time, and hard work. The Dept. of Energy Resources in particular listened, adjusted and most important of all, based its work on sound science. These regulations will be a model for other states and even other countries.
Public Parkland and Private Interests
A bill was introduced and passed at the end of the legislative session that authorizes the Dept. of Conservation and Recreation to enter into a lease agreement with Simmons College for the use of Daly Field - 8.5 acres of public land along the Charles River in Brighton.
YEP Summer 2012 Program a Huge Success!
We learned a lot about policy, we learned a lot about politics, and we ate a LOT of pizza...ELM's summer Young Environmentalist Program drew to a close this week!
Anti-MESA Legislation Fails
As the legislative session drew to a close, MESA, the bill that would have effectively undermined protection of threatened and endangered species did not pass. However, enough legislators feel there are questions around how MESA is implemented, so going forward we can have constructive conversations about the program.
End of Session Wrap-Up
The formal legislative session came to an end a little after midnight on Wednesday morning. Advocates were working till the end - both defense and offense on a number of bills. Here's how things ended - for now.
Young Environmentalist Program (YEP)
ELM saw another great turnout at our Food & Community Advocacy YEP session hosted by Aviva Rothman-Shore from CLF/CLF Ventures and Brandy Brooks from The Food Project.
ELM and Coalition Launch Campaign to Phase Out Coal
July 11th marked Coal Free Massachusetts's launch of its campaign to phase out coal, protect public health, and transition the Commonwealth to 21st century clean energy.
CPA Legislation Signed by Governor
The long-awaited CPA legislation has been signed into law, including $25 million in funding for the statewide CPA Trust Fund.
Governor Patrick signed the FY 2013 state budget on Sunday and we are very pleased that it included the long-awaited Community Preservation Act (CPA) legislation.
Green Budget Advocacy Pays Off!
Environmental agencies fared well in the FY'13 state budget released last week. Thanks to the conferees for reversing the trend of steep cuts to these essential programs! Thank you to all who made their voices heard by contacting their legislators throughout the budget process!
House Passes Energy Bill
The House passed energy bill H.4198 which allows longer term utility contracts to purchase renewable energy, increases the cap on net metering, and sets property tax standards and relief for solar installations. The goal is to get the strongest bill possible passed this session in order to strengthen the original Green Communities Act of 2008.
Congressman Markey’s Statement on the Federal Transportation Bill Conference Report:
Read Congressman Markey’s statement on the federal transportation bill conference report
Endangered Species Act Under Attack - Take Action TODAY!
The Mass. Legislature is considering revisions to the state Endangered Species Act (MESA) which would result in an effective repeal of endangered species protections in the Commonwealth. Call or email your state representative and senator today.
President George Bachrach Presenting at MEPA & NEPA Conference
President George Bachrach will be presenting at the MEPA & NEPA Conference on June 22, 2012.
Wayland on the Hot Seat
Wayland is a Green Community, but it now has a chance to support a small wind project in town, and the betting money is it will vote it down. Stop & Shop is proposing a LEED-certified store, but the town is poised to reject it when the matter comes before the Planning Board this Tuesday for a final vote.
Legislative Leadership Kills Updated Bottle Bill
The proposal to update the Bottle Bill to include non-carbonated beverages was effectively killed last Thursday by the Committee on Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy by a 10 to 7 vote to place the bill in “study” despite support by a majority of legislators and by 77% of Mass. residents.
Big Win for Transportation in the House
ELM, as a member of Transportation for MA (T4MA), took a big step closer to our first goal yesterday when the Massachusetts House passed a bill that will help plug the MBTA's deficit for FY13.
Supporting the Clean-Energy Sector
The State House has a chance to pass an energy bill that would update and expand the Green Communities Act, a key part of Massachusetts’ clean-energy success. If it fails, Massachusetts risks the clean-energy lead it has so carefully built up. That would be bad for business — and the planet.
Toxics Use Reduction Act Proven Success
A recent story in the Patriot Ledger highlights the success of the Toxics Use Reduction Act (TURA) - legislation ELM played a leading role in developing and passing more than two decades ago.
Governor speaks on Energy, Innovation, and Economic Growth
Governor Patrick gave an inspiring speech on Massachusetts’ clean energy future, recommitting to Cape Wind, pressing for passage of an energy bill, and building on recent Commonwealth successes to make Massachusetts a national leader in clean energy growth.
Strong Turnout in Support of Cape Wind/NStar Agreement
Supporters outnumbered opponents by nearly 2 to 1 at recent DPU public hearings on Cape Wind. Residents, advocates, laborers, and more cited the myriad benefits – job creation, economic growth, environmental impacts, long term energy savings – that far outweigh the nominal increase in rates.
Environmental Collaborative Meets with DoER Secretary Sylvia
Of concern to members is whether state enegy policies will result in a 25% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions below 1990 levels by the year 2020, as required by the Mass. Global Warming Solutions Act and the Massachusetts Clean Energy and Climate Plan for 2020.
Cape Wind Public Hearings
ELM encourages you to offer comment in support of Cape Wind at the third of three public hearings Wednesday, 5/30 at 7:00 pm, Department of Public Utilities, One South Station, 5th Floor, Boston.
Walmart to Install Solar Panels on 27 Stores in Mass.
Retail giant Walmart said it plans to install solar panels on top of about half of its roughly 50 Massachusetts stores as early as August 2012 as part of an expansion of solar power in the state.
Eastern Bank Wins ELM Green Star Award
The Environmental League of Massachusetts said it will bestow its Green Star Award to Eastern Bank at the league’s Earth Night gala May 5. 2012.
Corporate Council Member Writes Ecopreneurist Article
Corporate Council member Ben Grossman wrote about a recent guest lecture he gave at Tufts University.
Corporate Council Meets With Transportation Secretary Davey
On the eve of the MBTA board's vote to increase fares and reduce service, Massachusetts Secretary of Transportation Richard Davey met with the ELM Corporate Council on April 3rd to discuss transportation priorities and funding.
President George Bachrach's Boston Globe Op-Ed
Governor Patrick has a good track record on environment, but there is still a lot of work to be done.
NStar Merger Agreement an Historic Win for Cape Wind, Clean Energy
Governor Patrick announced an agreement with NStar allowing their merger with Northeast Utilities (NEU) to move forward, providing a rate freeze for ratepayers and creating an historic win for Cape Wind - allowing it to move forward as the first off-shore wind farm in the United States.
Innovative Green Companies on the Rise
ELM is very grateful to these up-and-coming green companies for their recent support: Waste Zero, Free Flow Power, Anbaric Transmission, and Just Energy.
Environmental Budget Hearing Held December 1st
ELM President George Bachrach testified at the December 1st environmental budget hearing before Massachusetts Secretary of the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs Rick Sullivan and his Commissioners.
2011 Lawyers and Friends Event a Huge Success!
Over 150 attorneys, consultants, and other ELM supporters attended our Nov. 30 event, held at the Law Offices of Foley Hoag, Boston. Special guest Elizabeth Warren and our event speaker Sue Tierney both had important things to say.
ELM Welcomes New Board Members:
Bethany LeBlanc, State Street
Linda Orel, MACC
Matt Patsky, Trillium Investments
John Quealy, Canaccord Genuit
Greg Shell, GMO LLC
Rob Tuchmann, Wilmer Hale
Seth Jaffe of Foley Hoag elected Chairman of the Board of the Environmental League of Massachusetts
Seth Jaffe, a partner at Foley Hoag LLP and resident of Newton, Mass., was elected chairman of the board of the Environmental League of Massachusetts (ELM) at its annual board meeting in November 2011.
ELM Labor Council Featured in Boston Globe
"Union members and environmentalists have not always seen eye to eye... Seeking common ground on a variety of issues, the Environmental League of Massachusetts and the AFL-CIO of Massachusetts plan to unveil today a new group called the ELM Labor Council."
ELM Launches New Labor Council
ELM strongly believes environmental issues need to be reframed as economic issues. We can be both pro-environment and pro-growth. If we wish to accelerate the path to clean energy and energy conservation, we must build new alliances with responsible corporate leaders and labor.
Jeremy Grantham on Resource Scarcity
We Can Avoid or Delay Catastrophe, But Probably Won't
Boston-based investment guru and environmentalist Jeremy Grantham's recent profile in the New York Times.
Bottle Bill Rally and Hearing a Huge Success!
On Wednesday, July 20, ELM participated in a rally and legislative hearing on the proposed update to the Bottle Bill. The hearing was an impressive success, with supporters of the bill largely outnumbering opponents and making effective arguments to bolster our case.
Congratulations to Grossman Marketing Group!
Congratulations to Corporate Council member Grossman Marketing Group for launching their new website ShopProgress.com)! This website is devoted to providing clients with US-made, Union-made and eco-friendly promotional products in an effort to promote fair labor and manufacturing practices. We congratulate them on this exciting addition to their company.
Good News for Environment in FY 2012 State Budget
Environmental priorities fared very well in the FY 2012 state budget released last night. ELM and its environmental allies celebrate their successful push for higher funding levels. This win sets a good foundation as we gear up for the FY 2013 environmental budget campaign.
Inconvenient Truths and Unintended Consequences
The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is more than a protector of the environment. It directly affects economic development. If developers cannot move projects forward within reasonable timeframes they may take their jobs and tax revenue elsewhere.
President George Bachrach's Message: “It’s the Economy, Stupid!”
As advocates for the environment, we need to understand the simple, transcendent issue of our time …”It’s the economy, stupid!” Government is in survival mode. Budget gaps yawn and the fiscal crisis is daunting. Too many of our fellow citizens remain unemployed. What can we do?
Massachusetts Clean Energy & Climate Plan for 2020: The Commonwealth’s 10 year plan to 25% emissions reductions
By Eugenia Gibbons, ELM Program Coordinator
On December 29, 2010, to the delight of environmental advocates across the Commonwealth, the Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EOEEA) set the state’s 2020 greenhouse gas emissions reduction target at 25% below 1990 levels – the maximum allowed under the landmark Massachusetts Global Warming Solutions Act (GWSA).
Momentum on Bottle Bill Advocates Say
A recently-conducted poll revealed that 77 percent of the Massachusetts public supports updating the Bottle Bill to include additional containers like water bottles, sports drinks, iced teas, and the like.
ELM Board Member Profile: Tom Powers
By Marisa Hobbs, ELM Intern
Tom Powers has been President of the Boston Harbor Island Alliance since 2004. He has also been an ELM Director for five years. His past experience includes positions with USGen New England, Inc., the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority, and the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection, where he held various positions including Acting Commissioner. The following are excerpts from an interview with Mr. Powers.
ELM Working to Make Mass. Coal-Free
By Eugenia Gibbons, ELM Program Coordinator
Perhaps the effects of coal may not be as obvious as the blacked-out skies of a previous century, but the fact remains that coal is expensive, inefficient, and detrimental to the health and safety of the public and the environment. It is the most carbon-intensive source of electric generation and is one of the primary contributors to climate change.
ELM Hosts Lunch With “The Big Thirst” Author Fishman
On May 4th ELM hosted a fascinating luncheon with Charles Fishman, author of the award winning book “The Wal-Mart Effect” and more recently “The Big Thirst: The Secret Life and Turbulant Future of Water”.
Public Lands Closer to Real Protection
May 6, 2011 - The Legislature's Environment Committee voted in favor of the Public Lands Preservation Act (PLPA) this week. The similar bills filed in the House and Senate would set important restrictions on the removal of protection for conservation land owned by cities, towns and the state. ELM and other forest and park advocates testified in favor of these bills in March and we are pleased with the Committee's favorable votes.
Good News on the Environmental Budget!
April 26, 2011 - Today the House took up amendments to the House Ways and Means environmental budget that increased funding by a total of $3.9 million dollars.
ELM Celebrates Earth Day at the State House
Happy Earth Day! ELM and several other environmental organizations held an Earth Day celebration yesterday at the State House (even though Earth Day is actually today). We celebrated our success in solving many environmental problems in Massachusetts and urged the citizens and legislators present to make progress on others.
URGENT - Environmental Budget Cuts
April 13, 2011 - Today, House Ways and Means Committee released its recommendations for the FY 2012 budget and the environmental agencies saw additional deep cuts. Between FY 2008 and the House Ways and Means FY 2012 budget, the environmental agencies have been cut by 23%--almost a quarter of the environmental budget has disappeared!
In the News: ELM's Global Warming Solutions Project
Brownsberger Sets Agenda to End Fossil Fuel Addiction in the Belmont Patch
Green Budget Update
ELM and our colleagues are starting to make the rounds to talk with House members about the environmental budget. We met this week with new House Ways and Means Chairman Brian Dempsey along with two ELM Corporate Council members and Mass Audubon. We presented the Green Budget and our case for 1% for the Environment.
Protecting Public Natural Resource Lands
ELM Testifies in Favor of Public Lands Preservation Act
Massachusetts residents care enough about permanently protecting forests and parks for all citizens to enjoy that, in 1972, they voted to amend the Massachusetts Constitution to make it the law of the land.
Accounting for the True Cost of Coal
The Environmental League is working with our partners to phase out the burning of coal for electricity in Massachusetts. Doing so will help combat global warming, because burning coal releases much more heat-trapping carbon dioxide into the atmosphere than other fossil fuels per amount of energy produced.
In the News: ELM's Green Budget
State environmental spending is now less than one percent of the total Massachusetts budget, a troubling low for a state that has long prided itself on its environmental innovations and protections, a new analysis shows.
ELM Working to Make Massachusetts Coal-Free
Perhaps the effects of burning coal may not be as obvious as the blackened skies of a previous century, but the fact remains that generating electricity by burning coal is inefficient and detrimental to the health of the public and the environment.
House Chairs and Committee Members Named
In a big shake-up in the House, Speaker DeLeo named new committee chairs last Friday including a new Chairman for House Ways and Means.
Climate Change and Extreme Winter Weather
Are you curious about how this extreme winter weather is related to Global Warming?
Dr. Amanda Staudt, climate scientist with the National Wildlife Federation, has reported on how the climate crisis is causing extreme winter weather...
Community Preservation Act Conference
Saturday, April 2nd
8:30 am - 3:00 pm
Bridgewater State University
Bridgewater, MA
Governor Releases FY 2012 Budget
The Governor released his FY 12 budget on January 26th and as expected we saw additional cuts to the environmental agencies' budgets, although perhaps not as deep as anticipated. The Secretary thanked everyone who came to the budget hearings and advocated for 1% for the environment.
2011-2012 Legislative Session Begins
The legislative session begins in earnest now that more than 5,000 bills were filed. ELM will be working to get additional legislators to cosponsor bills on its priority list.
ELM Priorities 2011-2012 Legislative Session
See the list of priority bills ELM is working on this session.
Mass. Residents Overwhelmingly Support Bottle Bill Update
According Mass Inc. poll, 77% of the public supports pending legislation to update the state's Bottle Bill, the 5 cent deposit on some beverage containers which has been in effect since 1983.
Senate Committee Chairs Appointed
Staff Changes at Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA)
Faye Boardman was appointed as Chief of Staff at the Department of Environmental Protection. For the past two years, Ms. Boardman worked as EEA's Legislative Director and served as EEA's ambassador in interactions with elected officials, stakeholder groups, and members of the public. She previously worked as a Legislative Aide and as Fiscal Policy Manager for the Senate Committee on Ways and Means.
Commonweath Climate Leadership Summit a Great Success!
On January 7th, ELM hosted the Commonwealth Climate Leadership Summit. The event was part of the Global Warming Solutions Project, a year-long climate initiative supported by the Barr Foundation. More than 70 invitees convened at Suffolk University Law School for a day of collaboration and brainstorming about strategies related to energy efficiency, transportation, planning, and going coal-free.
EEA releases Clean Energy and Climate Plan to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Last Wednesday, Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Ian Bowles set the statewide greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions limit for 2020 required by the Global Warming Solutions Act.
Budget Update: Good News for Parks
Last week the legislature passed a $330 million supplemental budget for the current fiscal year that included a much-needed $2.1 million for DCR parks.
2010 Land Protection Report Now Available Online
In December, the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs released the 2010 Land Protection Report. The report spotlights specific projects across the Commonwealth, describes agency-by-agency projects, and details historical land conservation data.
Sullivan Appoints Jack Murray as Commissioner of DCR
Rick Sullivan, Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary-designate, appointed Jack Murray as Acting Commissioner of the Department of Conservation and Recreation effective January 3, 2011.
DCR Landscape Designation Comment Period Extended
As part of its Forest Futures Visioning process, DCR is adopting a new land designation system that will result in all DCR lands being designated as reserves, parklands or woodlands depending on their dominant characteristics and suitability. Because of the holidays and the snowstorm, DCR has extended the written public comment by one week - the deadline for written comments is now Friday, January 21st.
Public Lands Preservation Act Update
The Public Lands Preservation Act (PLPA) continues to be a legislative priority for ELM and the Environmental Collaborative. The PLPA would provide needed protection from development for our parks, playgrounds, conservation lands, watersheds, and other natural resource lands covered by Article 97 of the commonwealth's constitution. The PLPA will be refiled in January, and it is important to develop momentum for the bill by having a long list of co-sponsors.
Kenneth Kimmell Appointed Commissioner of DEP
On Monday, December 20, 2010, the Executive office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary-Designate Richard K. Sullivan Jr. announced the appointment of EEA General Counsel Kenneth Kimmell of Newton as Commissioner of the Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP).
ELM and 40 Others Co-Sponsor Wind Report
Sufficient wind exists off the Atlantic coast of the U.S. to generate up to 212 Gigawatts (GW) of electricity. So far about 6 GW of offshore wind projects have been proposed along the Atlantic coast (including Cape Wind, see above) - the equivalent of about five coal-fired power plants and enough to power about 1.5 million average U.S. homes.
Tremendous Potential Exists for Wind Power off the Atlantic Coast
Sufficient wind exists off the Atlantic coast of the U.S. to generate up to 212 Gigawatts (GW) of electricity. About six GW of offshore wind projects have been proposed along the Atlantic coast (including Cape Wind). These and other findings in a report co-sponsored by ELM.
MassRecycle 2010 Recycling Awards
MassRecycle, Massachusetts' statewide Recycling Coalition, has announced the recipients of their 2010 Recycling Awards, which acknowledge individuals and organizations for outstanding contributions to recycling and waste reduction in Massachusetts.
Used Computers for Non-profits
Looking for a "new" computer? SEMI-NEW COMPUTERS sell refurbished computers to nonprofits.
Senator Brown Backs the Land and Water Conservation Fund
Senator Scott Brown has taken a leadership role in the Senate to advocate for the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) by signing on to a letter with other Senate Republicans urging the Senate leadership to move forward to achieve full and dedicated funding for LWCF during the lame duck session of the 111th Congress.
Proposed Revisions to Biomass Regulations Letter
On Thursday, October 21st, ELM and six other environmental groups issued a joint letter to Philip Giudice, Commissioner of the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources (DOER), on proposed revisions to the Biomass regulations.
Natural Heritage Releases BioMap2
The Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program and The Nature Conservancy recently completed BioMap2, an enhanced biodiversity conservation plan that updates and the original 2001 BioMap and the 2003 Living Waters plans.
Proposed Revisions to Biomass Regulations Letter
On Thursday, October 21, 2010, ELM and six other environmental groups issued a joint letter to Philip Giudice, Commissioner of the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources (DOER), on proposed revisions to the Biomass regulations.
MetroBoston Region Awarded $4 Million Sustainable Communities Grant!
HUD has awarded the Metro Boston region's Consortium for Sustainable Communities a $4 million Sustainable Communities Regional Planning Grant. This three-year grant will support a broad array of activities to implement the MetroFuture regional plan (developed by the Metropolitan Area Planning Agency and its partners) and to advance equitable and sustainable growth in Metro Boston.
Breaking News! Cape Wind Receives First Offshore Wind Lease
Wednesday, October 6 - U.S. Interior Secretary Ken Salazar and Cape Wind President Jim Gordon signed the first lease for an offshore wind farm in the federal waters of the United States this morning at the American Wind Energy Association's Offshore Wind Conference in Atlantic City, New Jersey.
President's Message:
Tuesday November 2nd is election day. The outcome of this election will say a lot about who we are and what role government will play in our lives. Two key matters on the ballot rise above all others.
Trails Plan for DCR's Middlesex Fells Reservation Released
On Monday, September 20th, DCR presented a draft Trail System Plan for the Middlesex Fells Reservation. The Fells is a heavily used property in the midst of a densely populated area and there is a history of user conflicts and illegal trail use. In particular, mountain bikers have been urging DCR to open up more trails for their use, although the plan addresses other needs and uses as well.
Baker, Cahill Would Review Greenhouse Gas Pact
From State House News Service
STATE HOUSE, BOSTON, AUG. 30, 2010…..Gov. Deval Patrick’s chief rivals for the Corner Office declined Monday to embrace a multistate compact aimed at cutting greenhouse gas emissions, raising the possibility that they’d pull Massachusetts out of the effort after four years of participation.
Who still opposes Cape Wind, and why?
From Political Correction Blog
In the recent Massachusetts gubernatorial debate, Gov. Deval Patrick (D) took heat from all three of his challengers over the Cape Wind project, a proposed wind farm in Nantucket Sound that would be America's first offshore wind power plant.
NSTAR Releases 2009 Sustainability Report
This online report highlights NSTAR's efforts to sustain a secure energy future, protect biodiversity and habitat, green their motor vehicle fleet, and minimize waste and recover resources. The report also details the company's environmental policies and compliance, carbon reduction efforts, air emissions, and water usage.
NSTAR and GE Electric announce creation of Smart Grid
The Massachusetts-based company is expanding its GE-powered self-healing grid project throughout its service territory to improve power reliability for all its customers. GE's smart grid technology automatically identifies the location of power outages, isolates faulty sections of the network ...
Approve National Grid’s deal with Cape Wind
From the Boston Globe
After nearly 10 years of intense technical review, Cape Wind has received government permitting from an endless array of local, state, and federal agencies. Now the only question is whether it is cost effective. The answer is a resounding yes.
Let Green Power Energize Mass
From the Boston Herald
Today we stand at a crossroads in the debate over our energy future, and the choices we make will define the arc of American prosperity for decades to come.
End of Session Wrap-up
The formal 2009-2010 Legislative Session ended at midnight on July 31st. While there were a couple of high points, generally it was a disappointing session with many of our legislative priorities not making it to the finish line...
FY'11 Budget Update
You may recall that at the time that this year's fiscal budget needed to be finalized, Massachusetts had not received approximately $600 million in federal funding that had been anticipated and therefore Governor Patrick needed to make additional cuts to the budget including more cuts to the environmental budget.
Stop & Shop Boston store gets solar installation
From the Boston Globe
The Stop & Shop Supermarket Co. said it has completed its first solar installation in Boston, adding to seven other stores in the Northeast where it is already generating clean power, the company announced today.
Officials seek ways to boost appeal of the transformed Harbor Islands
From the Boston Globe
Purple and orange liquid used to ooze off the landfill on Spectacle Island into Boston Harbor. Today, the reclaimed garbage dump is part of the Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area, with 5 miles of trails winding around green slopes, a Summer Shack serving up lobster rolls, and a sandy swimming beach with outdoor showers.
The March of the McMansions
From the Boston Globe
In countless Boston suburbs, the green movement and even the recession have been unable to halt the practice of demolishing Capes and ranches to make way for monster-size homes...
...According to Nancy Goodman, vice president for policy at the nonprofit Environmental League of Massachusetts in Boston, huge houses have significant environmental impacts, even if they’re more energy-efficient than the smaller houses they replace. “Everyone’s talking about energy efficiency,” says Goodman, “but there are other resources at stake."...
Green Firms Uniting to Flex Political Muscle
From the Boston Globe
Stonyfield Farm is slapping its familiar cow logo on more than just containers of yogurt these days. The New Hampshire-based organic food maker is one of more than 50 local companies to lend its corporate name to a political lobbying campaign aimed at persuading Congress to support climate and energy legislation on Capitol Hill.
Gubernatorial Forum a Success: Sharp Policy Differences Expressed
ELM and over 40 co-sponsoring organizations hosted a Gubernatorial Forum on Energy and the Environment the evening of June 29
A PBLN Special Event: Cape Wind and National Grid
How the New England Renewable Energy Deal of the Century Is Getting Done
Please join the Progressive Business Leaders Network
Wednesday, June 30th
8:00 - 9:45 AM at Akamai Technologies
for a special PBLN briefing on the technology, financing and partnerships behind America's first off-shore wind farm.
Baker Balks at Upcoming Environmental Forum
From the Boston Globe
Republican gubernatorial hopeful Charles D. Baker, who opposes Cape Wind and has sidestepped concerns about global warming, is skipping a candidate forum on environmental issues....
Cape Wind - DPU testimony by ELM Corporate Council members
The Environmental League of Massachusetts and six ELM Corporate Council Members submitted testimony to the Department of Public Utilties in support of Cape Wind and the further development of renewable energy in New England and the nation.
Action Alert: Help Stop Illegal Off Highway Vehicles
Senate Bill 2257, An Act Relative to Off Highway Vehicles, is now before the House Committee on Ways & Means. We need your help to get the bill out of committee and to the House floor for a vote! Please call your State Representative as soon as possible. The bill may come up for a vote as soon as next week.
Good News on the Enviromental Budget
The Senate took up amendments to the budget last week and we have some good news...
Governor Patrick Designates 35 Green Communities
From the Boston Globe
Getting cities and towns to shift toward clean energy was such a cornerstone of the state’s 2008 energy legislation that the law is named the Green Communities Act.
Action Alert: Off Highway and Recreational Vehicles
Help Stop Illegal Off Highway Vehicles on Public and Private Lands!
From Mass Audubon: Illegal riding of off highway vehicles (OHVs - including ATVs, dirt bikes, and snowmobiles) on conservation lands causes tremendous damage.
Senate Budget Released
The Senate released its budget this past Wednesday. Overall, the Senate slightly increased funding for the environmental agencies when compared to the House budget....
ELM Corp Council Member Aggregate Industries Applauded for Green Effort
While reducing its own carbon footprint, Aggregate Industries Northeast Region Inc. in Saugus also is helping customers reduce theirs....
ELM Corporate Council members support Cape Wind
There are few issues as divisive among the state’s voters and politicians as the Cape Wind proposal to put up 130 giant windmills in the heart of Nantucket Sound. So it’s not surprising to find out that the state’s business community is also divided on the topic.
Global Warming Solutions Act: Draft Plan and Public Hearings
EoEEA has just released a draft Climate Implementation Plan and public hearing schedule, pursuant to the 2008 Global Warming Solutions Act.
Senate Climate Bill about to Move
From the New York Times' Greenwire
Sens. John Kerry (D-Mass.) and Joe Lieberman (I-Conn.) are planning to release their climate and energy bill as soon as next week even if they cannot win back their longtime GOP partner, according to a top Senate Democrat.
Salazar approves Cape Wind and the Nation's First Offshore Wind Farm
From the Boston Globe's Green Blog
In a groundbreaking decision that some say will usher in a new era of clean energy, U.S. Interior Secretary Ken Salazar said today he had approved the nation's first offshore wind farm, the controversial Cape Wind project off of Cape Cod.
Environmental Budget Update
More than 800 amendments were filed seeking to revise the House Ways and Means budget released last week. Several amendments would increase funding for key environmental line-items...
House Budget Released
The House Budget was released on Wednesday and as expected there have been a number of severe cuts to environmental agencies.
TreeBay: Bid to Buy Our Environmental Assets Now!
How much is your environment worth to you? We're selling off Massachusetts' environment and its natural resources, one piece at a time.
ELM Corporate Council Member Saunders Hotels Chases Down Energy Efficiency
Sustainability certification and “green” initiatives are helping hotel chains like Sandals Resorts and Saunders Group Hotel save on valuable energy and water resources, while helping their bottom lines as more companies and consumers consider a hotel’s sustainability as part of their selection criteria...
ELM Releases FY2011 Green Budget
By George Bachrach and Nancy Goodman
Some argue we can do more with less. In truth, we can only do less with less. In FY ’01 the budget for environmental agencies represented a meager 1% of the state budget. In FY ’10 that percentage has dropped to .6%. We are moving in the wrong direction.
Green report spotlights in-the-red enviro budget
From The Green Blog on Boston.com
Less than one penny of every dollar spent in the state now goes to maintain parks, monitor toxic chemical use and ensure Bay State residents’ air and water are clean, according to the Environmental League of Massachusetts’ most recent – and depressing -annual green budget report.
Charles Baker's Views on Climate Change
As Massachusetts begins implementing nation-leading efforts to combat climate change, the Governor's views on this issue are crucially important. Recent statements by gubernatorial candidate Charles Baker raise serious questions.
Special Budget Update!
The Governor's FY 2011 budget was released on Wednesday, January 27th and as expected, the environmental agencies have been hit once again. The cuts amount to 6.4% on top of even more significant cuts the Governor made this fiscal year...
Gazebos & Gotcha
By George Bachrach
Brian McGrory is a very good columnist. But the recent column ("Structural Failing" Boston Globe Metro section p. 1, 1/27/10) is both unfair and frustrates and demoralizes good government employees and environmental advocates.
Major Energy Efficiency Gains on Tap for Mass
Electricity and natural gas providers in Massachusetts are poised to invest a whopping $2+ billion in consumer energy efficiency measures over the next three years, helping both residential and business consumers reduce their energy use.
Senators Change, Issues Remain
By George Bachrach, ELM President
ELM congratulates Scott Brown on his election to the United States Senate. We look forward to working with him and advancing public policy that will protect the environment. In the aftermath of the election, certain observations are important.
ELM Co-Sponsored an Environmental Forum
The four Democratic candidates for US Senate (Michael Capuano, Martha Coakley, Alan Khazei, Stephen Pagliuca) participated in a Forum on the Environment and a Green Economy on November 17th at noon.
Making the Climate Connection
ELM is pleased to announce that we recently received a significant grant from an anonymous foundation to build a broadly-based network of engaged and influential people from diverse backgrounds who share a common concern about the impact of climate change and who will take action to influence public policy over the long-term.
Utility Rates and Energy Efficiency
The objective is to create economic incentive for utilities and consumers to increase energy efficiency. Ultimately rates might increase, but consumption and bills would decline. The Attorney General has been skeptical of allowing rate increases and whether this would result in increased energy efficiency.
Inaugural Event: Luncheon Meeting
The ELM Corporate Council held its inaugural meeting over a lunch hosted by Council Member Legal Sea Foods on October 8, 2008.
Greening Boston Taxis: Gas Guzzlers or Hybrids
With support from the Cook Trust, ELM has partnered with the City of Boston in their efforts to convert Boston’s taxi fleet to fuel efficient hybrids. In 2008, ELM President George Bachrach testified at city hearings on taxi rate increases arguing that rate increases required a better (and greener) ride. Bachrach also wrote a Boston Globe op-ed piece in support of the city’s efforts.
Rural casinos leave a huge carbon footprint
IF YOU'D like to get a glimpse of Governor Deval Patrick's vision for "destination" casinos, take a virtual trip south of the border to Foxwoods, somewhere in the wilds of southeastern Connecticut.
ELM's Corporate Council Member Receives Energy Star Award
ELM Corporate Council member Tufts Health Plan has received, for the fifth consecutive year, the EPA's Energy Star Award for steps the company is taking to reduce its carbon footprint. Tufts Health Plan was the only health insurer among 44 companies in Massachusetts to be recognized with a 2010 Energy Star rating.
