How Will EPA’s Proposed Power Plant Carbon Rule Impact Public Health? – CleanTechnica

We are at the height of Danger Season

The Impact of Power Sector on Public Health

1. The power sector is the second highest source of climate pollution in the U.S.
2. Carbon emissions from power plants need to be addressed to mitigate climate change.
3. The EPA has proposed a rule to limit carbon pollution from fossil fuel burning power plants.

Interview with Dr. Marc Futernick

• Dr. Marc Futernick is an emergency physician in Los Angeles and steering committee chairman at the Medical Society Consortium on Climate and Health.
• He discusses the impact of the proposed rule on public health and the role of public health professionals in influencing standards.

The Power Sector’s Impact on Public Health

1. Burning gas and coal leads to carbon dioxide emissions and air pollutants.
2. Carbon dioxide is the main cause of global warming, while air pollutants contribute to leading causes of death and respiratory illness.
3. Air pollution from power plants has a direct impact on public health.

The Role of Public Health Professionals

• Public health professionals advocate for the health of entire communities.
• Air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions regulations should be strong to protect public health.
• The EPA listens to input from public health professionals and considers their comments in the rulemaking process.

The Potential Impact of the Proposed Rule on Public Health

1. Current air pollution levels cause millions of deaths worldwide each year.
2. The proposed rule would decrease toxic emissions from power plants, leading to immediate health benefits.
3. A study in California showed a significant decrease in pre-term birth after the closure of power plants.

Considerations for Alternatives to Fossil Fuels

• Carbon capture and storage (CCS) and hydrogen power have potential, but details and scalability are important.
• Renewable energy is currently the most affordable and effective solution.

Engaging in the Rulemaking Process

• Public health experts and community members can provide public comments to the EPA.
• Specific recommendations can be made to improve the rule, such as including more power plants and setting interim goals for pollution reduction.

By Brady Watson, courtesy of Union of Concerned Scientists, The Equation.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

• SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
• SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
• SDG 13: Climate Action

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

• SDG 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination.
• SDG 7.2: By 2030, increase substantially the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix.
• SDG 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

• Indicator for SDG 3.9: Number of deaths and illnesses attributed to air pollution.
• Indicator for SDG 7.2: Share of renewable energy in the power sector.
• Indicator for SDG 13.2: Existence of national policies or strategies that integrate climate change measures.

Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.

Source: cleantechnica.com

Join us, as fellow seekers of change, on a transformative journey at https://sdgtalks.ai/welcome, where you can become a member and actively contribute to shaping a brighter future.