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Woman getting signatures for climate action

The Environment

As citizens of the world, we must protect our planet from the physical, economic, and public health effects of climate change while also providing pathways to economic prosperity.

Why It Matters

The preservation of the physical, chemical, and biological integrity of the earth’s ecosystem is essential for the maximum protection of public health and the environment. The interrelationships of air, water, and land resources should be recognized in designing environmental safeguards. The federal government should have a major role in setting standards for environmental protection and pollution control.

What We're Doing

Since the 1960s, we have been at the forefront of efforts to protect air, land, and water resources. Our approach to environmental protection and pollution control is one of problem-solving. The League’s environmental goals aim to prevent ecological degradation and to reduce and control pollutants before they go down the sewer, up the chimney or into the landfill. We support vigorous enforcement mechanisms, including sanctions for states and localities that do not comply with federal standards as well as substantial fines for noncompliance.

In 2023, we endorsed the Children's Fundamental Rights and Climate Recovery Resolution, which recognizes the disproportionate impact of the climate crisis on the health, economic opportunities, and fundamental rights of children and the need for a national, science-based climate recovery plan to meet necessary emissions reduction targets and stabilize the climate system.

Latest from the League

The League signed onto a letter to the President urging him to remove Investor-State Dispute Settlement (ISDS) in existing free trade agreements and bilateral investment treaties. ISDS allows foreign investors to allege that a government's action, such as banning a toxic chemical or rejecting a mining permit, violates their corporate rights and sue the government for compensation. ISDS hinders government environmental and climate protections.

Letters /

Parks provide a place to stay active, gather with loved ones, and spend time in nature, improving our quality of life. Those serving on your local park board are vital to preserving the parkland and ensuring that parks continue to meet your needs. 

Blog /

The League submitted comments to the Council on Environmental Quality regarding its proposed revisions to its regulations for implementing the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The League advised on modifications to the proposed revisions to ensure that they achieve: consideration of climate change and environmental justice and their effects; full and fair public involvement; and better decision-making.

Letters /

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