Cross-posted from Fresh Energy Blog <http://fresh-energy.org/index.php/blog/How-energy-reform-is-making-our-military-better.html>
By: Alison K. Linburg, 23 Apr. 10
Who should we look to for examples of implementing clean energy solutions? Turns out, the U.S. military’s a good place to start. The Pew Project on National Security, Energy and Climate recently released “Reenergizing America’s Defense,” a report which describes the efforts the U.S. military is taking to enhance energy efficiency and harness clean energy technology. The U.S. Department of Defense has established stringent goals that will reduce dependence on fossil fuels and cut global warming pollution.
“The stakes could not be higher,” said Navy Secretary Ray Mabus. “Energy reform will make us better fighters. In the end, it is a matter of energy independence and it is a matter of national security.”
Some goals including meeting 25 percent of the U.S. Air Force’s electricity needs with renewable energy by 2025 and a “green” carrier strike group for the U.S. Navy to run completely on alternative fuels by 2016. As the largest consumer of energy in the U.S. government - the U.S. military is responsible for nearly 80 percent of the government’s total energy consumption – meeting these goals is no small task. However, the military leaders believe energy independence is not only worthwhile, but necessary. “Today’s military leaders clearly understand that forward-looking approaches to energy and climate can save American lives and money as well as reduce emissions,” said Phyllis Cuttino, director ofPew‘s climate and energy programs.
Carol Browner, director of Energy and Climate Change Policy for the White House, agrees that the military is spearheading the clean energy movement. In a live webchat on Earth Day, she stated that the Department of Defense is providing the leadership and technology needed to stop dangerous carbon pollution and build a clean energy economy. “We have to put our money where our mouth is,” she said.
According to the Pew report, “The effects of global warming will require adaptive planning by our military. The effects of climate policies will require new fuels and energy systems. Ignoring these trends will make us less secure; leading the way can make us more secure.”
Alison K. Lindburg is the global warming solutions coordinator at non-profit organization Fresh Energy. She works to develop positions and strategies on policy matters, assists with Fresh Energy’s legislative priorities, and develops documents to communicate policy and scientific information to policy makers and the public. Alison most recently worked for nonprofit organization Dovetail Partners as the director of the Eco-Affordable Housing program. She has been featured in publications and media outlets such as Minnesota Public Radio and national radio program Living the Green Life, and has written and co-authored numerous reports on green building standards, responsible materials, and opportunities in sustainability for Minnesotan communities. Alison joined Fresh Energy because she believes that environmental policy plays a key role in solving global warming. Alison walks and bikes to work, loves to travel and learn new languages, and dedicates her spare time to painting and playing the piano. She holds a BA in Architecture with a focus on sustainable design from the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, with a minor in Spanish. Alison is a LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP BD+C), a member of the Minnesota GreenStar Technical Advisory Committee, and a member of the Minnesota Chapter of the USGBC.
