Past Event

Illinois, Coal, and Climate Change

 

Josh Mogerman and Barry Matchett will be joining us as our guest speakers. 
President Obama, in his weekly radio address:
“Today, about 40 percent of America’s carbon pollution comes from power plants. But right now, there are no national limits to the amount of carbon pollution that existing plants can pump into the air we breathe. None. We limit the amount of toxic chemicals like mercury, sulfur, and arsenic that power plants put in our air and water. But they can dump unlimited amounts of carbon pollution into the air. It’s not smart, it’s not safe, and it doesn’t make sense.”
Questions for Consideration:
With coal production being a major part of our economy, what does this mean for Illinois? As a result, what kind of energy will we need to adopt and start investing in? How might this policy impact your life? Do we have enough information to assess these questions? 
Want to learn more?

Josh Mogerman, Deputy Director, National Media, National Resources Defense Council
Three things are pretty central to my hometown, Springfield, IL: the state capitol, Abraham Lincoln, and corn as far as the eye can see. In a way, all three of these central Illinois icons pushed me to where I am today with an abiding love for nature, history, and catty politics. They also combine to make me acutely aware that we occupy a unique moment in history where our actions or inaction will resonate for generations to come. As for NRDC, I handle communications for a weird mix of NRDC’s efforts including energy issues in the Midwest, greening of Chicago, endangered species and western wildlife issues. When I am not worried about dirty fuels and changes to the Endangered Species Act, play bass guitar, try to keep my 120 year old house on the south side from crumbling and chase around a wee-bitty son, born on … you guessed it … Lincoln’s birthday.

If you need a sign interpreter or require other arrangements to fully participate, please call 312.422.5580 at least 72 hours prior to the event. 

For parking locations near the facility, please visit ChicagoParkingMap.com.