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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

LWVUS joined nearly 650 other groups on a letter to House and Senate agriculture committee leadership urging that they protect investments in climate-smart agriculture and conservation in the 2023 Farm Bill.

Letters /

LWVUS urges the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to take additional measures to reduce methane air pollution from the oil and gas industry.

Letters /

A concerted global effort is needed to fight climate change, yet global commitments to reduce carbon emissions are inadequate and slow.

Local, regional, and state efforts are needed to step up the pace. Local governments have an important responsibility to move our communities in the right direction. And that requires a plan.

Blog /

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