Barack Obama-The Next US President

This year's presidential election created more national, and global, interest than possibly any other election in US history. Either way history stood to be made. On one hand we could have a female vice president, and on the other we could have an African-American as president. On November 4th the people made their voices heard, and though McCain made a strong showing, ultimately Barack Obama carried the win with over 300 electoral votes. Obama, whose voting record is over 97% liberal, represents a huge change from the United State's current conservative government in every area, from healthcare to the economy. We, at Supergreenme.com, are all about the environment. So, just what does Obama plan to do regarding the environment? Read on for some of the highlights of Obama's environmental plan for the US.

Climate Change and Energy

Obama plans to reduce carbon emissions 80 percent by 2050. His proposed plan to accomplish this is a "cap-and-trade" system, where corporations are allotted a certain amount of carbon emissions, and any extras can be sold to companies who need more allotted emissions. Obama also plans to have 25 percent of energy come from renewable sources by 2025. Internationally Obama plans to work with South American countries to encourage the preservation of rainforests, whose destruction contributes to over 20 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions. In line with Al Gore's ideals Obama also wants to invest in a national electricity grid that relies on clean energy sources, updating the pre-existing, antiquated system.

Vehicles

Within the next 18 years Obama plans to double fuel economy standards while rewriting tax credits and securing loans for US auto makers. He also plans to invest in advanced vehicle technology and increase consumer tax credits for ultra-efficient vehicles.  By 2015 the plan is to have over one million plug-in hybrid vehicles on the road, which get over 150 miles to the gallon.

Short-Term Relief

For immediate relief of energy costs Obama plans to take a windfall profits tax from the big oil companies and give families up to $1000 in energy rebates. This money could go towards weatherization of homes, another area the president-elect wants to emphasize.

Land Conservation

Obama is against building roads in our national parks and wants to keep the wilderness pristine. He also wants to focus on protecting and rehabilitating new areas, like the Great Plains and East Coast forests. Obama won't just focus on public lands, but will also offer incentives to private land owners to restore and preserve the natural wilderness on their properties.  

Agriculture

Organic and local farming are two industries Obama wants to promote under his lead, which he will do partially by offering a cost-share program to help farmers pay for the organic certification required by USDA law. He also plans to promote buying local foods, and make farming a viable occupation once again.

Clean Air

Obama plans to restore the Clean Air Act, which has been set aside by the Bush administration, and also to reduce harmful diesel fuel emissions. He is committed to improving the air quality in American and thus reducing the number of smog and pollution related illnesses.

Is your interest peaked? Read more about Obama's full environmental plan by clicking the link below to visit his official website.