The Clean Power Plan lays out the first-ever national limits on carbon pollution from power plants. Doctors Council SEIU commends President Obama for putting in place this important measure that tackles climate change and recognizes the damage done to public health by carbon pollution.
The likelihood of extreme weather will only increase as climate change accelerates, and it is clear that these events disproportionately impact those least prepared to deal with the effects of climate-related disasters. We owe it to each other, to our communities, and to future generations to take action on climate change before it is too late.
Emissions from coal-powered plants are known to contribute to cancer and to cause and exacerbate various heart and lung ailments, including asthma, as well as intensify allergies. The reduction of pollutants can impact lives by preventing premature deaths and hospitalizations. The federal carbon reduction standards will contribute to healthy communities and improve quality of life, not just here in the United States but around the world.