2012 Saw Release of Historic Fuel Standards and Gains in California

SAN FRANCISCO, CA (November 30, 2012) – At the 4^th annual The Right Stuff Awards dinner, the Apollo Alliance Project of the BlueGreen Alliance Foundation honored state and national leaders for their work to drive a national transportation policy that is good for the environment and the economy. The awards particularly recognized the finalization of the federal 54.5 mpg fuel efficiency auto standards which will create 570,000 jobs throughout the United States.

“America and the world can’t have a clean economy without having a clean transportation sector,” said David Foster, President of the BlueGreen Alliance Foundation. “It is vitally important to our economy; it touches virtually every industry and every American’s life as well. The work of our honorees is what we need to get us there.”

This year’s Right Stuff Awards Recipients were Bob King, President of the United Auto Workers; Mary D. Nichols, Chairman of the California Air Resources Board; Larry Schweiger, President and CEO of the National Wildlife Federation; Community Awardee Los Angeles Alliance for a New Economy (LAANE); and Corporate Awardee General Motors.

“The work of these individuals and organizations is what is needed to build a clean energy, good jobs future for our country,” said Phil Angelides, Chairman of the Apollo Alliance Advisory Board. “We need to replicate their success across the country to ensure that we can have an economy that is about creating real wealth and real opportunity for America’s workers.”

For four years, the Apollo Alliance Project has honored leaders and businesses at the forefront of the clean economy in California and around the country for their contribution to a strong economy and a safe, healthy environment. 

Bob King, President, United Auto Workers
In 2011, United Auto Workers President Bob King led the effort to build a coalition of labor organizations, environmentalists, businesses and auto makers that would support the adoption of new light-duty fuel efficiency standards. Thanks to his leadership and the support of the United Auto Workers' 380,000 active members and 600,000 retired members, the White House finalized these standards in 2012. 

“Bob King and the members of the UAW recognize we must have a national transportation strategy that is not just good for the environment, but the economy as well. We strongly support the new fuel efficiency rules that are ensuring the production of more fuel efficient cars in America,” said Maurice Staten, Assistant Director of the UAW-GM Quality Network. 

Larry Schweiger, President and CEO, National Wildlife Federation
Labor unions and environmental groups have come together in support of important environmental initiatives that will put Americans to work. Larry Schweiger has been at the head of the National Wildlife Federation’s (NWF) advocacy of the fuel efficiency standards, and he has led the NWF’s efforts to build consensus around protecting our nation’s wild places, reducing pollution, and keeping our communities safe and healthy.

“The adoption of the clean air standards for automobiles will prevent the release of greenhouse gas emissions into our air and will save consumers money at the pump. They are what we need to protect our environment and wildlife, and they are what our economy needs as a whole,” said Larry Schweiger, President and CEO of the National Wildlife Federation. 

Mary D. Nichols, Chairman, California Air Resources Board
History was made in California in 2006 when California adopted AB32 — California’s landmark clean energy jobs and climate change law. In her efforts to implement this legislation, Mary Nichols played a vital role in representing California during the development of the federal efficiency standards. Additionally, under her leadership, the California Air Resources Board has taken action to clean up California’s ports along with the air in Southern California. 

General Motors, Corporate Award Recipient
General Motors stands as an example of American ingenuity, and the company has continually shown its commitment to environmental responsibility and continuous improvement. With the development of the Chevrolet Volt, General Motors showed the world it understood what consumers want: to save money and pollute less. Thanks to General Motors’ efforts, workers all across America are getting back to work building the cars of the future. 

Los Angeles Alliance for a New Economy, Community Award Recipient
Improving the lives of people is never an easy job, but the Los Angeles Alliance for a New Economy (LAANE) has been doing just that since 1993. LAANE played a pivotal role in passing the Clean Trucks Program in Los Angeles's ports, a sweeping anti-poverty and anti-pollution measure that will improve the standard of living for hard-working truck drivers in the region. LAANE also helped enact the nation’s first Construction Careers and Green Jobs Policy and co-founded the Partnership for Working Families, two efforts that ensuring the availability of middle class jobs and healthy communities in the U.S.

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The BlueGreen Alliance Foundation is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization that conducts research and educates the public and media about solutions to environmental challenges that create economic opportunities for the American people.

At UN Climate Change Conference, Labor-Environmental Alliance Urges Action at home and abroad on dangerous, costly consequences of climate change

Doha, Qatar (November 27, 2012) As world leaders gather for the 18^th session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change Conference in Doha, Qatar, the BlueGreen Alliance today released a letter urging the United States to take a critical leadership role in advancing global climate change solutions and urged negotiators to take crucial steps forward in reaching an international agreement on a framework for action to reduce emissions, provide assistance for adapting to the impacts of a changing climate, and to ensure a just transition for working people during the move toward a cleaner economy.

“Climate change and its impacts are taking a toll on our communities and on our economy, from rising food prices to severe weather events that are costing lives and economic distress,” said David Foster, Executive Director of the BlueGreen Alliance. “We can no longer afford inaction, and the United States has a responsibility to lead the world to a solution.”

The letter outlines clear priorities for an international agreement, which included that countries establish a sound emissions reduction regime that keeps planetary warming below the 2-degrees Celsius threshold. In addition, the Alliance echoed its position that the United States make a commitment to reduce global greenhouse gas emissions to 85 percent below 1990 levels by 2050.

The letter also urged negotiators to recognize that climate solutions may have a negative impact on working people if not crafted and implemented mindfully. The BlueGreen Alliance insisted that a “Just Transition” be a key part of any global climate agreement to ensure a smooth transition for workers and communities. In addition, the BlueGreen Alliance urged support for the Green Climate Fund – which is set to finance adaptation and mitigation efforts in the developing world – and proceeding with National Adaptation Plans and further implementing actions that increase the resilience of countries to climate change.

Finally, the BlueGreen Alliance urged domestic action, including building on advances in vehicle technology, finalizing proposed standards for carbon emissions for new power plants, establishing a properly crafted carbon standard for existing power plants, and extending clean energy tax incentives.

“Combatting a changing climate is a moral, economic and environmental imperative,” continued Foster. “We can and must transition to a cleaner economy, avoiding the worst impacts of a changing climate and setting the stage for a smooth transition – for workers and for our economy – to a cleaner, more prosperous future.”

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WASHINGTON, DC (November 15, 2012) The BlueGreen Alliance, in partnership with Heinrich Böll Stiftung North America, launched a multi-state tour to highlight the potential of offshore wind along the Atlantic Coast, specifically in Maryland and New York. The domestic offshore wind industry has obstacles to overcome, but has shown significant potential to power millions of American homes and businesses. Germany’s success launching their offshore wind industry should serve as model for the United States. Offshore wind can expand clean energy generation from Maine to Florida and create economic revitalization across the country. 

Tour participants included Dr. Joachim Lohse, Senator for the Environment, Construction and Transportation of the City-State of Bremen; Michael Williams, BlueGreen Alliance Senior Policy and Legislative Advocate; Andreas Marcotty, BlueGreen Alliance Legislative and Policy Aide; and Catherine Bowes, National Wildlife Federation Senior Manager, New Energy Solutions. 

“Offshore wind energy is an investment in a brighter economic future,” said Dr. Lohse. “Engaging in this dialogue is an important way to ensure that offshore wind energy, and the thousands of jobs needed to bring it online, becomes a reality not only in Germany, but also for America.” 

The tour kicked off in Washington, D.C. with a bipartisan, bicameral Congressional briefing hosted by Senator Carper (D-DE), Senator Snowe (R-ME) and the House Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition Caucus. The event highlighted the German experience that an investment in offshore wind provides significant economic development results and called for a stronger domestic focus on job-creating clean energy policy solutions. 

“The best course for America’s energy future is one that includes offshore wind. It’s necessary to prioritize the opportunities that have the greatest job creation potential,” said Michael Williams from BlueGreen Alliance. “Harnessing the abundant wind resources off of the Atlantic coast will require thousands of high-quality American jobs across a broad supply chain that are sorely needed during these difficult economic times.” 

Other stops on the tour included meetings with key stakeholders in state and local governments in Annapolis, Maryland and Albany, New York.

“Offshore wind energy presents a tremendous opportunity for America to make our energy supply cleaner, more wildlife-friendly, and more secure.” said Catherine Bowes from National Wildlife Federation. “Clean energy investments are vital for making offshore wind energy a reality for America.”

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The BlueGreen Alliance is a national partnership of labor unions and environmental organizations dedicated to expanding the number and quality of jobs in the green economy. Launched in 2006, the strategic partnership now brings together major U.S. labor unions and America's most influential environmental organizations and unites more than 15 million members and supporters in pursuit of good jobs, a clean environment and a green economy. Visit www.bluegreenalliance.org.

“The implementation of AB32’s cap-and-trade system is a huge leap forward as California continues its journey to lead America — and the world — in developing a cleaner energy future. Cap-and-trade programs, like the one California is implementing, are a common-sense approach to reducing carbon emissions and ensuring that those creating the pollution are paying to deal with it. 

“Make no mistake; our climate is warming. Superstorms — like Hurricane Sandy — droughts, rising sea levels and extreme weather will only become more prevalent as our temperature warms and we must utilize innovative solutions to tackle climate change, including finding ways to increase our investments in clean energy. Clean energy holds the promise not just to reduce the emissions causing climate change, but also as a venue to create and sustain good jobs for California’s workers. Combined with the passage of Proposition 39 — which will close a tax loophole and use half of the dollars generated to jumpstart energy efficiency and clean energy projects around the state — the cap-and-trade auctions will provide a huge boost to the state’s efforts to ramp up renewable energy and energy efficiency. 

“We wholeheartedly support this effort and hope that those in Congress will show similar leadership to that of California in reducing emissions and creating good jobs.” 

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The BlueGreen Alliance is a national partnership of labor unions and environmental organizations dedicated to expanding the number and quality of jobs in the green economy. Launched in 2006, the strategic partnership now brings together major U.S. labor unions and America's most influential environmental organizations and unites more than 15 million members and supporters in pursuit of good jobs, a clean environment and a green economy. Visit www.bluegreenalliance.org.

“Californians have again showed the importance of clean energy to their state and their economy by passing Proposition 39 and their wisdom in protecting the voices of working people by rejecting Proposition 32. 

“Proposition 39 will create tens of thousands of good jobs making California more energy efficient and supporting clean energy. In addition, closing the loophole will remove the incentive to keep jobs out-of-state — bringing back and securing thousands more good jobs — and providing funding for essential services in the state budget, such as education, health care, and public safety. 

“In rejecting Proposition 32, Californians have ensured that working peoples’ voice remains strong and that billionaires and corporations are not exempted from the discussion on campaign finance reform. Voters by a wide margin saw through this blatant attempt to silence working people in the political process. The BlueGreen Alliance was proud to help mobilize our members and supporters to help pass Proposition 39 and oppose Proposition 32.

“At a time when much of our country is still divided, Californians of every political stripe came together to show their support for a cleaner energy future, good jobs, and ensuring that no voice is removed from our political discussions, especially the voice of working people. That, in itself, should be heartening for every American.” 

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The BlueGreen Alliance is a national partnership of labor unions and environmental organizations dedicated to expanding the number and quality of jobs in the green economy. Launched in 2006, the strategic partnership now brings together major U.S. labor unions and America's most influential environmental organizations and unites more than 15 million members and supporters in pursuit of good jobs, a clean environment and a green economy. Visit www.bluegreenalliance.org.

WASHINGTON, DC (November 6, 2012) Following election results called this evening in favor of the Obama-Biden ticket, BlueGreen Alliance Executive Director David Foster released the following statement encouraging the president and Congress to come together to renew our commitment to putting the economy back on track: 

“The re-election of President Obama and Vice President Biden is an affirmation of the role of government in charting America’s clean economy future. The voters have said, “Yes,” to the President’s clean energy strategy. And they have also said ‘Yes’ to his support for a modern, fuel efficient auto industry and strong investments in America’s workers.  

“After thirty-two consecutive months of private sector job growth, the President has a proven track record of putting Americans back to work, but we can’t let up on the economic policies that will continue to build our clean energy future and fuel the economic recovery for years to come. 

“Congress should now work with this Administration to pass the balance of the President’s jobs plan.  Among the top priorities are renewing the Production Tax Credit (PTC) and the Advanced Energy Project Credit (48C) and approving the Investment Tax Credit for offshore wind projects. These measures will immediately create more jobs and stop the layoffs in the wind energy industry. 

“Congress must also join with the President in averting the impending deep cuts in discretionary spending that will hinder our ability to innovate and sustain long-term growth.   We cannot cut our way to prosperity. 

“This election has concluded in the wake of Hurricane Sandy-- a tragic reminder that we must do more to address climate change --.  We strongly encourage the President to seize this moment to lead the American people in a national effort to reduce our carbon emissions while creating millions of new clean economy jobs. 

“The American people have shown that once again, they want to build on the progress we’ve already made. Let’s get to work!”

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 The BlueGreen Alliance is a national partnership of labor unions and environmental organizations dedicated to expanding the number and quality of jobs in the green economy. Launched in 2006, the strategic partnership now brings together major U.S. labor unions and America's most influential environmental organizations and unites more than 15 million members and supporters in pursuit of good jobs, a clean environment and a green economy. Visit www.bluegreenalliance.org.

WASHINGTON, DC (November 2, 2012) Today, the Bureau of Labor Statistics released the October unemployment numbers, showing the economy gained 171,000 jobs and the unemployment rate changed to 7.9 percent. The following is a statement from BlueGreen Alliance Executive Director David Foster:

“Another month of growth for the economy is encouraging for American workers and the economy overall. However, there’s more work to be done. Congress still has time this year to pass a plan that will sustain long-term economic growth and create jobs, something they have failed to do for the last two years. 

“The most important agenda items that can immediately be put to work protecting existing jobs and spurring growth include renewing the Production Tax Credit for wind energy before it expires in December, extending the Advanced Energy Project Credit (48C) and the Investment Tax Credit to get offshore wind projects up and running. All of these will spur growth in the vital manufacturing sector and create good American jobs building our clean energy future. 

“Important decisions loom large on renewing job-creating clean energy tax extenders and on the structure of the federal budget. Critical programs, like worker-training programs, will be slashed considerably or eliminated if some in Congress have their way. This irresponsible action will be detrimental to workers, communities and the economy. Creating jobs in the clean economy in transportation, clean energy, energy efficiency, infrastructure, recycling, and the strengthening and preparation of our workforce — the cornerstones of the BlueGreen Alliance’s Jobs21! blueprint to create and sustain good jobs and a strong economy — is working. Clearly, now is not the time for cuts. We cannot lose focus now on the highest priority — continuing to create jobs and put people back to work.” 

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The BlueGreen Alliance is a national partnership of labor unions and environmental organizations dedicated to expanding the number and quality of jobs in the green economy. Launched in 2006, the strategic partnership now brings together major U.S. labor unions and America's most influential environmental organizations and unites more than 15 million members and supporters in pursuit of good jobs, a clean environment and a green economy. Visit www.bluegreenalliance.org.

Environment Leaders Speak Out for Collective Bargaining Rights and Clean, Safe Workplaces

DETROIT, MI (October 29, 2012) Joining a broad coalition of supporters who are backing better wages and safer working conditions, environmental leaders spoke out in support of Proposal 2 in Michigan. On the ballot this November 6th, Proposal 2 ensures that future generations benefit from basic rights that give workers a say when it comes to protecting their health, as well as negotiating and enforcing agreements between themselves and their employers.

“Collective bargaining means safer workers, safer communities and better jobs for all of us. Workers who can collectively bargain not only protect themselves, they also safeguard our neighborhoods, our communities and our environment, and raise up the wages and benefits for all of us,” said Michael Brune, Executive Director of the Sierra Club. “It’s important that we pull together to build on that progress and give working families the opportunity to provide better lives for their children, and Prop 2 does just that,“ Brune added. 

Proposal 2 protects collective bargaining rights and prevents attempts to weaken these protections in the future by ensuring that all Michigan works have the rights to organize together to form, join or assist labor organizations, and to bargain collectively with a public or private employer.

“Collective bargaining rights are as American as apple pie,” said Kevin Knobloch, president of the Union of Concerned Scientists. “These rights have strengthened our democracy and our economy by protecting working families from exploitation and by expanding economic opportunities.  The overt, well-funded attacks on workers’ rights are like the overt, well-funded attacks on science that we have been fighting— and both, if successful, would weaken our democracy.”

Stronger worker protections make the middle class strong by ensuring workers have a voice in their workplace and in the nation’s policies, advocating more equitable wages, humane work conditions and improved benefits.

“Collective bargaining has been the driving force behind improved work place safety and protecting Michigan workers from over exposure to toxic chemicals,” said Nic Clark, Executive Director of Michigan Clean Water Action. “Clean Water Action is proud to stand with labor on voting yes for Proposal 2.”

“Some Michigan lawmakers are doing everything they can to abolish workers’ rights to organize and collectively bargain,” said Mark Schauer, National Co-Chair of the BlueGreen Alliance’s Jobs21! initiative. “But, giving Michigan’s working families a voice to negotiate for fair wages, benefits and working conditions that are good for them and safe for our communities and our environment is as important today as it ever has been.”

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Paid for by the BlueGreen Alliance for Michigan Jobs and Energy.

The BlueGreen Alliance is a national partnership of labor unions and environmental organizations dedicated to expanding the number and quality of jobs in the green economy. Launched in 2006, the strategic partnership now brings together major U.S. labor unions and America's most influential environmental organizations and unites more than 15 million members and supporters in pursuit of good jobs, a clean environment and a green economy. Visit www.bluegreenalliance.org.

Environment Leaders, Local Workers Stand Up for Collective Bargaining Rights and Clean, Safe Workplaces

GRAND RAPIDS, MI (October 29, 2012) Joining a broad coalition of supporters who are backing better wages and safer working conditions, environmental leaders and local workers today spoke out in support of Proposal 2 in Michigan. On the ballot this November 6th, Proposal 2 ensures that future generations benefit from basic rights that give workers a say when it comes to protecting their health, as well as negotiating and enforcing agreements between themselves and their employers.

“Collective bargaining means safer workers, safer communities and better jobs for all of us. Workers who can collectively bargain not only protect themselves, they also safeguard our neighborhoods, our communities and our environment, and raise up the wages and benefits for all of us,” said Michael Brune, Executive Director of the Sierra Club.

“It’s important that we pull together to build on that progress and give working families the opportunity to provide better lives for their children, and Prop 2 does just that,” Brune added. 

Proposal 2 protects collective bargaining rights and prevents attempts to weaken these protections in the future.

“Everyone who values clean environments and safe, secure and prosperous communities should support this critical ballot initiative,” said Anne Woiwode, State Director for the Sierra Club Michigan Chapter. “The rights secured by Proposal 2 are essential for strengthening and protecting the hardworking, middle-class families who are the backbone of Michigan communities.”

Event participants spoke specifically to the protections that make the middle class strong by ensuring workers have a voice in their workplace and in the nation’s policies, advocating more equitable wages, humane work conditions, and improved benefits.

“Some Michigan lawmakers are doing everything they can to abolish workers’ rights to organize and collectively bargain,” said Mark Schauer, National Co-Chair of the BlueGreen Alliance’s Jobs21! initiative. “But, giving Michigan’s working families a voice to negotiate for fair wages, benefits and working conditions that are good for them and safe for our communities and our environment is as important today as it ever has been.”

“We can and we must protect the rights of working people in Michigan,” said Kevin Riley, a meat cutter at Meijer in Grand Rapids. “Putting these rights in our constitution is something the politicians and corporations cannot take away, and it will benefit future generations of Michiganders, both economically and environmentally. We must stand together to protect the right to negotiate for good jobs with cleaner, safer and healthier workplaces.” 

“We cannot afford to go back to a time when corporations could make up the rules as they go along, regarding working conditions, workplace safety, environmental protection and worker pay,” said Ben Scheid, an AT&T worker. “Michigan’s workers and families can’t afford it, that’s why I support Proposal 2.”

The supporters said that without collective bargaining rights our environment is endangered and workers face more risks on the job.

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Paid for by the BlueGreen Alliance for Michigan Jobs and Energy.

The BlueGreen Alliance is a national partnership of labor unions and environmental organizations dedicated to expanding the number and quality of jobs in the green economy. Launched in 2006, the strategic partnership now brings together major U.S. labor unions and America's most influential environmental organizations and unites more than 15 million members and supporters in pursuit of good jobs, a clean environment and a green economy. Visit www.bluegreenalliance.org.

"The Sierra Club is strongly opposed to Proposition 32,” said Michael Brune, Executive Director of the Sierra Club. “Backed by out-of-state billionaires like the Koch Brothers, who see California's clean energy progress as a threat, Prop 32 would silence the voices of our state's working families who share our vision for good clean energy jobs and clean air and water.”

The International Forum on Globalization released a report at the event outlining that the same billionaire funders seeking to silence the voice of working families through Proposition 32 have a dual agenda to attack clean energy and environmental laws. The Kochs have been linked to:

·      $1 million in 2010 to overturn California’s landmark Global Warming Solutions Act. 

·      $4 million through the American Future Fund to support proposition 32.

·      At least $656 million on attacks on environmental protections and workers’ rights.

“Big corporations and billionaire businessmen, the Koch Brothers, are bankrolling Proposition 32,” said Victor Menotti, Executive Director of the International Forum on Globalization. “Sadly, their support of Proposition 32 is only a small part of a larger, coordinated effort to undermine environmental protections and the rights of workers across the nation, not just here in California.”

Previously, the Koch brothers, CEO and founders of Koch Industries, provided funding to Proposition 23, the 2010 ballot proposition to rescind California’s landmark Global Warming Solutions Act, and since then, have funded numerous attacks on clean energy initiatives around the country.

“As a legislator, I see environmental and labor advocates working together to advance energy efficiency policies and to scale up renewable energy,” said Senator Mark Leno (District 3 – San Francisco and Marin). “I’m also aware that the billionaire financiers attacking California's working families through their support of Prop 32 are the same people who funded the attempted repeal of our landmark green house gas emissions law in 2010.” 

 “It is important for every Californian who cares about growing clean energy jobs and fighting climate change to understand the threat Proposition 32 poses to realizing that vision.” said Lisa Hoyos, California Director of the BlueGreen Alliance, a clean energy advocacy organization. “We will work until Election Day to ensure that environmentally minded voters stand firmly against Proposition 32.”

Also participating in the event were Jenesse Miller, Communications Director for the California League of Conservation Voters; Roger Kim, Executive Director for the Asian Pacific Environmental Network; and Laura Wisland, Senior Energy Analyst, Union of Concerned Scientists. These organizations, along with Communities for a Better Environment, have come out in opposition to Proposition 32, which received $4 million from the American Future Fund linked to the Koch brothers. 

Weakening labor’s political influence through Proposition 32 would represent a major blow to the ability to implement policies to grow clean energy jobs; an agenda strongly shared by environmental leaders and environmental justice communities.

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The BlueGreen Alliance is a national partnership of labor unions and environmental organizations dedicated to expanding the number and quality of jobs in the green economy. Launched in 2006, the strategic partnership now brings together major U.S. labor unions and America's most influential environmental organizations and unites more than 15 million members and supporters in pursuit of good jobs, a clean environment and a green economy. Visit www.bluegreenalliance.org

Vision for Infrastructure, Protection, and Efficiency To Ensure Clean Water and Create Jobs

WASHINGTON, DC (October 17, 2012) Honoring 40 years of progress made as a result of the Clean Water Act, the BlueGreen Alliance’s labor and environmental leaders celebrated this historic act today and laid out a plan to build on its legacy by bolstering America’s aging water infrastructure system and commitment to protecting our waters.

Twenty-five years ago, only a third of the nation’s waters were safe for fishing and swimming, wetland losses were estimated at about 460,000 acres per year, and agricultural runoff resulted in the erosion of billions of tons of soil and deposit of large amounts of phosphorus and nitrogen into our waterways. The Clean Water Act and subsequent legislation reversed decline in the quality of our nation’s waters, and strategic investment in water infrastructure — pipes, treatment plants, and sewage and stormwater treatment  — is critical in ensuring ample clean water for our communities and economy.

“Just like 40 years ago, it’s time to double down on our commitment to water protection and strong infrastructure,” said David Foster, Executive Director of the BlueGreen Alliance. “Water main breaks and flooding come at a high cost to taxpayers. Fixing our crumbling infrastructure now means averting much higher costs down the line, and putting significant numbers of people back to work sooner.”

“Without water infrastructure we can rely on, we not only threaten the economy but also put our families and neighbors at risk for public health problems,” Foster added.

In 2009, the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) gave both the nation’s drinking water and wastewater a D- on the its Report Card for America’s Infrastructure. Across the nation, an estimated 240,000 water main breaks occur each year – more than 700 per day.

Every $1 billion in direct investment results in an estimated $3 billion in total economic impact through industries that are directly or indirectly related to building or improving water and wastewater infrastructure, according to a study by the Chesapeake Bay Foundation. Additionally, each billion dollars of investment is estimated to create and sustain 20,000 jobs across the economy.

“The silver lining is that fixing America’s old, out-of-date water infrastructure and protecting our water to ensure it is clean is an opportunity to create jobs for American workers,” said Mike Langford, President of the Utility Workers Union of America. “Day in an day out, our members make sure that every glass of tap water is crystal clear and that our lakes and waterways are sewage free. Privatizing our water system is the wrong route to take given water’s role in public health, economic development, national security, and quality of life. We shouldn’t have to worry if the water we’re drinking is clean because the private company in charge of it decided to put profits ahead of our safety.”

Ensuring domestic sourcing provisions — which means using American-made iron, steel and manufactured goods — are attached to water investment initiatives is vital in creating jobs and benefits in sectors across the national economy.

“Both flooding and droughts have wreaked havoc on the environment, our water supply and our overburdened water infrastructure systems in communities all over the country — and things will only get worse as our climate continues to change,” said Jeremy Symons, Senior Vice President for Conservation and Education at the National Wildlife Federation. “Water is a vital need in America. We need to move forward with water infrastructure improvements and support strong water protections to safeguard our communities and environment, and to create good jobs.”

Environmental protections like the Clean Water Act have in the past and will continue to spur innovation and development, and create new products for the market that raise environmental quality.

“Our workers have the skills to ensure installation and construction of green infrastructure projects are effective and maintain water quality standards.  Changing our water infrastructure strategy from band aid fixes only to a longer term strategy that makes investments with routine maintenance and upgrades will protect public health and create good jobs,” said Russ Breckenridge, Senior Legislative Representative of UA. “It’s a necessary switch that we should all support.”

Listen to the press conference below.

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The BlueGreen Alliance is a national partnership of labor unions and environmental organizations dedicated to expanding the number and quality of jobs in the green economy. Launched in 2006, the strategic partnership now brings together major U.S. labor unions and America's most influential environmental organizations and unites more than 15 million members and supporters in pursuit of good jobs, a clean environment and a green economy. Visit www.bluegreenalliance.org.

“Water infrastructure systems are critical and offer significant opportunities to create good jobs that strengthen our economy and our communities and safeguard our community’s health,” said Daveau, Sr. “The reality is that we must make significant investments and upgrades in order to adapt to the effects of climate change, maintain access to safe drinking water, and adequately treat storm and wastewater. And, while doing so, we can create good jobs, using American-made steel, iron and manufactured goods.”

Much of the water pipe around the country is between 40 and 100 years old. The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) gave both the nation’s drinking water and wastewater a D- on the 2009 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure — a dangerous combination. However, fixing this problem is an opportunity to create jobs for American workers. The benefit of meeting this need is that it can create thousands of jobs. Every $1 billion invested in water infrastructure is estimated to create more than 20,000 new jobs.

“The Clean Water Act has helped to clean up our lakes, rivers and local water supplies; it has better protected wildlife from pollution, and it helped to restore unhealthy water systems,” said Mullins. “By properly investing in water projects, we can create thousands of jobs that will strengthen our economy and communities and the middle class.”

The event also served as a state release for the BlueGreen Alliance’s policy platform on clean water entitled Clean Water, Good Jobs — a policy guideline that focuses on the public health, environmental protection and job creation potential in rebuilding America’s water and sewer infrastructure.

“Investing in water infrastructure has the potential to stimulate and support many economic sectors including construction, manufacturing, transport, and tourism,” said Clark. “It’s important that domestic sourcing provisions be part of plans to reinforce our water infrastructure. If we’re using tax dollars to rebuild our infrastructure, we should use American products made by American workers.”

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The BlueGreen Alliance is a national partnership of labor unions and environmental organizations dedicated to expanding the number and quality of jobs in the green economy. Launched in 2006, the strategic partnership now brings together major U.S. labor unions and America's most influential environmental organizations and unites more than 15 million members and supporters in pursuit of good jobs, a clean environment and a green economy. Visit www.bluegreenalliance.org.

Environmental and Labor Leaders Highlight Success of Green Economy, Release BlueGreen Alliance Energy Policy

WASHINGTON, DC (October 16, 2012) Ahead of the second presidential debate, labor and environmental leaders today set the record straight on America’s green jobs successes including the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and released the BlueGreen Alliance’s energy policy that serves as a model for leaders to follow to create and sustain more good jobs, while reducing pollution and U.S. dependence on foreign oil.

United Steelworkers (USW) International President Leo W. Gerard, Senior Advisor to the NRDC Action Fund Dale Bryk, BlueGreen Alliance Executive Director David Foster and clean energy worker Gerald Nickelson from CG Power Systems in Missouri expressed disappointment on a teleconference call about how candidates during the presidential and vice presidential debates have politicized renewable energy investments that have accelerated job creation and economic growth over the past few years.

“There’s not a more important conversation for our leaders to have than about the economic direction of the country, but when Governor Romney and Congressman Ryan aren’t honest about the past, it prevents us from moving forward,” said Gerard. “The Recovery Act was a crucial down payment to give America a shot at competition globally in key 21^st century industries. It worked and we’re here to set the record straight: nearly one million green jobs were created or saved by the Recovery Act and America is on the right path to building better economic and environmental future.”

A BlueGreen Alliance study found the green investments in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act were very successful, creating or sustaining at least one million jobs. Equally important, these programs leveraged private investment at the rate of $3 of private capital for every $1 dollar of government support.  

“The successes of the Recovery Act in growing a green economy demand that we double down on these investments, not back away from them,” said Foster. “We cannot afford to ignore proven job-creating green investments. Our energy plan renews our commitment to clean energy by increasing production and deploying more of our resources to these technologies. Without these investments, we cannot fully realize our economic potential.” 

The leaders pointed to the comeback of the auto industry and the emergence of the wind industry to see the difference a greener economy is making. Manufacturing the most fuel-efficient fleet of American vehicles in a generation is employing more workers across the country every day. The wind industry has gained a foothold in the economy, employing 75,000 workers today in jobs manufacturing, constructing and designing the wind turbines that will power tomorrow. With continued investments, the industry can grow to support 500,000 jobs by 2030. 

“There’s no denying that jobs like mine exist,” said Nickelson. “The fact is that thousands of workers, including myself, are earning a paycheck today in jobs that are building a better, cleaner economy. It’s time for candidates to stop politicizing my job and start supporting policies and investments that have worked and will continue to do so.”

“In poll after poll, Americans say they want more clean energy. Why?  Because clean, renewable energy helps our economy, our environment, our health and our future,” said Bryk. “The rhetoric and misinformation needs to end, and the work of building on the clean energy foundation we’ve started needs to continue.”

Looking ahead to Tuesday evening’s debate, call participants expressed expectations for a more constructive discussion on energy issues.

Listen to the audio below.

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The BlueGreen Alliance is a national partnership of labor unions and environmental organizations dedicated to expanding the number and quality of jobs in the green economy. Launched in 2006, the strategic partnership now brings together major U.S. labor unions and America's most influential environmental organizations and unites more than 15 million members and supporters in pursuit of good jobs, a clean environment and a green economy. Visit www.bluegreenalliance.org.

WASHINGTON, DC (October 5, 2012) Today, the Bureau of Labor Statistics released the September unemployment numbers, showing the economy gained 114,000 jobs and the unemployment rate dropped to 7.8 percent. The following is a statement from BlueGreen Alliance Executive Director David Foster: 

“Capping a summer season of moderate growth on a high note, today’s jobs numbers are encouraging news for American workers. This month’s economic growth can set the wheels in motion for more significant gains in the coming months. 

“However, if Congress continues to ignore proven job-creating green investments like the Production Tax Credit, the Advanced Energy Project Credit (48C) and the Investment Tax Credit, we won’t fully realize our economic potential. The Production Tax Credit for the wind industry works to grow manufacturing and construction jobs. But, because Congress has not acted, people like Pennsylvania wind industry worker Ryan Motel are getting furloughed when they should be building the wind blades that will power our nation now and in the future. 

“Indisputably, a greener future is one that is better for everyone and better for the economy. It’s better when the auto industry is cranking out the fuel-efficient vehicles that consumers want. It’s better when we begin to utilize the vast offshore wind energy potential America has to power our coasts and beyond. And, it’s better when even more workers are employed in the good, clean economy jobs that are boosting American competitiveness and sustaining the environment. 

“Congress must start with renewing the Production Tax Credit for wind, the Advanced Energy Project Credit (48c) and the Investment Tax Credit for offshore wind to protect current jobs and spur job growth now. From there, we can renew investments in the industries of the future, like those in the Jobs21! plan — transportation, clean energy, energy efficiency, infrastructure, recycling,  manufacturing, and more — that have grown America’s economy and will payoff for years to come.” 

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The BlueGreen Alliance is a national partnership of labor unions and environmental organizations dedicated to expanding the number and quality of jobs in the green economy. Launched in 2006, the strategic partnership now brings together major U.S. labor unions and America's most influential environmental organizations and unites more than 15 million members and supporters in pursuit of good jobs, a clean environment and a green economy. Visit www.bluegreenalliance.org.

WASHINGTON, D.C. (October 3, 2012) Following the presidential debate last night during which Governor Mitt Romney criticized the green investments of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the BlueGreen Alliance’s Executive Director David Foster issued the following statement: 

“I’m disappointed that Governor Romney politicized efforts to build a strong, green economy in the U.S. during the debate. In fact, the $90 billion of green investments in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act were very successful, creating or sustaining at least one million jobs. Equally important, these programs leveraged private investment at the rate of $3 of private capital for every $1 dollar of government support. 

“These investments in clean energy, energy efficiency, transportation infrastructure, electrical transmission, and rebuilding American manufacturing have paid important dividends over the last several years. They represented a significant down payment on America’s future competitiveness. 

“Among other notable ‘green investments’ were those that led to a resurgence of the domestic auto industry which restored another 1 million jobs. Our auto industry is now thriving and building the fuel-efficient vehicles the world needs. By 2030, the new auto standards for light-duty vehicles finalized this year will create an additional 570,000 jobs, with 50,000 of them in vehicle manufacturing and assembly. 

“Becoming more efficient, moving to clean energy, and reducing pollution and energy waste are all driving job creation and security today and will continue to do so well into the future. We would encourage Governor Romney to look at the facts and endorse these proven job creation strategies.” 

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The BlueGreen Alliance is a national partnership of labor unions and environmental organizations dedicated to expanding the number and quality of jobs in the green economy. Launched in 2006, the strategic partnership now brings together major U.S. labor unions and America's most influential environmental organizations and unites more than 15 million members and supporters in pursuit of good jobs, a clean environment and a green economy. Visit www.bluegreenalliance.org.

Area Leaders Join Touring Worker Facing Furloughs to Call for Renewal of the Production Tax Credit to Save 37,000 American Jobs, Ensure U.S. Can Compete in Global Clean Energy Industry

RICHMOND, Va. (September 28, 2012) Local labor and environmental leaders today joined a furloughed worker from wind turbine-maker Gamesa at the House Briefing Room on the Lobby Level of the General Assembly Building in Richmond to call on House Majority Leader, Eric Cantor, to support an immediate extension of the Production Tax Credit. The lack of action on the 2.2-cent per kilowatt-hour tax incentive for wind energy — set to expire at the end of the year — was directly blamed by Gamesa for its decision to institute furloughs at two plants in Pennsylvania, including the plant of Ryan Motel, a United Steelworkers Local 2635 member who is currently on furlough.

“My job is at stake, but so are the jobs of many others,” said Motel. “If companies aren’t building wind farms because they’re not sure what their return on their investment will be, they aren’t buying our blades. My message to Congress is simple: end this uncertainty, save my job, and save the jobs of thousands of people like me across the country.”

Since this summer, more than 2,000 workers in the wind industry have been laid-off or furloughed and companies have cited the lack of certainty on the tax incentive as a main cause of them. Renewing the Production Tax Credit will put people back to work and protect the jobs of 37,000 more workers who stand to lose their jobs if it is not renewed. Gamesa employs approximately 900 workers in the U.S., with 800 of those jobs in the state of Pennsylvania.

Motel joins other workers in the wind industry in Pennsylvania, Virginia and Michigan to call on Cantor, Speaker Boehner and other members of Congress to bring the Production Tax Credit up for a vote in the U.S. House of Representatives.

“Clean energy incentives like the Production Tax Credit have created jobs around the country,” said Judy Sibley, IUE-CWA Local 8216. “Workers in the wind industry have had good, family sustaining jobs – until now. Congress needs to step up, and save the thousands of jobs at stake by renewing the PTC.”

The American Wind Energy Association estimates that the Production Tax Credit will allow the wind industry to grow from the current 75,000 jobs to 500,000 jobs by 2030. Extending the Production Tax Credit through 2016 would increase total wind-supported jobs to 95,000, with total wind investment growing to $16.3 billion. However, without an extension, America stands to lose 37,000 jobs.

“Congress needs to understand the importance of these jobs to America,” said Matt Sinclair, CWA Local 2201. “Without an extension, the Production Tax Credit expires at the end of the year; to save and create good jobs in Virginia and around the country we need our members of Congress to push their Congressional leadership to call a vote on extending the Production Tax Credit. We’re here today to call for them to get this done as soon as possible to ensure these workers have jobs for the long-term.” 

The tax incentive is moving in the U.S. Senate, passing with bipartisan support from the Senate Finance Committee just prior to the beginning of the August recess, but it remains stalled in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Wind turbines consist of 8,000 parts and 200 tons of steel. Since 2005, the domestic content in American wind turbines has grown from less than 25 percent domestic content to 60 percent in 2011.

The labor and environmental leaders argued the benefits of wind go beyond good jobs. “Renewal of the Production Tax Credit will mean cleaner air and better jobs in our region,” said Glen Besa, Chapter Director, Virginia Chapter Sierra Club. “We can help facilitate a move to cleaner energy sources that are better for public health, American energy independence, and our economic and environmental future. It’s time for Congress to get this done.”

“Until they act, we’re going to continue to bring this message to leaders in Congress to push leadership to pass the Production Tax Credit,” said Michael Williams, Senior Policy and Legislative Advocate, BlueGreen Alliance. “We need to save and create thousands of good jobs. It’s a no-brainer.” 

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The BlueGreen Alliance is a national partnership of labor unions and environmental organizations dedicated to expanding the number and quality of jobs in the green economy. Launched in 2006, the strategic partnership now brings together major U.S. labor unions and America's most influential environmental organizations and unites more than 15 million members and supporters in pursuit of good jobs, a clean environment and a green economy. Visit www.bluegreenalliance.org.

Area Leaders Join Touring Worker Facing Furloughs to Call for Renewal of the Production Tax Credit to Save 37,000 American Jobs, Ensure U.S. Can Compete in Global Clean Energy Industry

KALAMAZOO, Mich. (September 27, 2012) Local labor and environmental leaders today joined a furloughed worker from wind turbine-maker Gamesa in front of the office of Congressman Fred Upton to call for him to support an immediate extension of the Production Tax Credit. The lack of action on the 2.2-cent per kilowatt-hour tax incentive for wind energy — set to expire at the end of the year — was directly blamed by Gamesa for its decision to institute furloughs at two plants in Pennsylvania, including the plant of Ryan Motel, a United Steelworkers Local 2635 member who is currently on furlough.

“My job is at stake, but so are the jobs of many others,” said Motel. “If companies aren’t building wind farms because they’re not sure what their return on their investment will be, they aren’t buying our blades. My message to Congress is simple: end this uncertainty, save my job, and save the jobs of thousands of people like me across the country.”

Since this summer, more than 2,000 workers in the wind industry have been laid-off or furloughed and companies have cited the lack of certainty on the tax incentive as a main cause of them. Renewing the Production Tax Credit will put people back to work and protect the jobs of 37,000 more workers who stand to lose their jobs if it is not renewed. Gamesa employs approximately 900 workers in the U.S., with 800 of those jobs in the state of Pennsylvania.

Motel has joined other workers in the wind industry in Pennsylvania and Ohio to call on members of Congressional leadership to bring the Production Tax Credit up for a vote in the U.S. House of Representatives. The tour will continue tomorrow in Richmond, Virginia.

“Clean energy incentives like the Production Tax Credit have created jobs right here in Michigan and around the country,” said Tom Bowes, Director of Education and Outreach for the Electrical Industry Training Center and a member of International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 58. “Workers in the wind industry have had good, family sustaining jobs – until now. Congress needs to step up, and save the thousands of jobs at stake by renewing the PTC.”

The American Wind Energy Association estimates that the Production Tax Credit will allow the wind industry to grow from the current 75,000 jobs to 500,000 jobs by 2030. Extending the Production Tax Credit through 2016 would increase total wind-supported jobs to 95,000, with total wind investment growing to $16.3 billion. However, without an extension, America stands to lose 37,000 jobs.

“Congress needs to understand the importance of these jobs to America and Michigan,” said Lee Geisse, a member of the USW Local 1046 in Louisville, Ohio. “Without an extension, the Production Tax Credit expires at the end of the year; to save and create thousands of good jobs we need Congressman Upton to push his leaders to call a vote on extending the Production Tax Credit. We’re here today to call for Congress to get this done as soon as possible to ensure these workers have jobs for the long-term.”

The tax incentive is moving in the U.S. Senate, passing with bipartisan support from the Senate Finance Committee just prior to the beginning of the August recess, but it remains stalled in the U.S. House of Representatives.

“There are real jobs in Michigan that are being threatened by this, and it’s preventable if only Congress would do the right thing,” said Brad van Guilder, an Organizing Representative for the Sierra Club. “Extending the Production Tax Credit would be good for our economy, our environment and for workers in Michigan and around the country.” 

Wind turbines consist of 8,000 parts and 200 tons of steel. Since 2005, the domestic content in American wind turbines has grown from less than 25 percent to 60 percent in 2011.

The labor and environmental leaders argued the benefits of wind go beyond good jobs. “Renewal of the Production Tax Credit will mean cleaner air and better jobs in our region,” said Frank Szollosi, the Regional Outreach Coordinator for the National Wildlife Federation. “We need to save and create thousands of good jobs that are also good for our environment. This needs to happen, and happen now.” 

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The BlueGreen Alliance is a national partnership of labor unions and environmental organizations dedicated to expanding the number and quality of jobs in the green economy. Launched in 2006, the strategic partnership now brings together major U.S. labor unions and America's most influential environmental organizations and unites more than 15 million members and supporters in pursuit of good jobs, a clean environment and a green economy. Visit www.bluegreenalliance.org.

“Last week, the USW joined with the BlueGreen Alliance and the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) to provide testimony to the California Air Resources Board in support of the implementation of the cap-and-trade program on January 1, 2013. We believe this component of AB32 will create good jobs in California, preserve the competitiveness of CA industries, reduce emissions, and ensure future generations of Californians a better economic and environmental future. 

“We also believe that California must remain steadfast in its commitment under AB32 to prevent the leakage of jobs to other states by maintaining a level playing field with out-of-state refiners. Petroleum products imported into the state must be subject to the same compliance costs as if they were produced in California. This will provide certainty to businesses and workers in California that their investments in energy efficiency and carbon reduction will not be undercut by out-of-state competitors. Unlike AB 32 critics at the hearing pushing for even more free allowances, our coalition of the USW, the NRDC and the BlueGreen Alliance expressed strong support for a cap-and-trade program that ensures revenues are available to invest in industrial energy efficiency and other clean energy strategies that provide both emission reductions and cost savings. 

“We will continue to work with the California Air Resources Board to ensure that AB32 is implemented in a manner that achieves the state’s emission reduction goals, maintains high-quality jobs in California, and creates new jobs in the growing clean energy and energy efficiency sectors.” 

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The BlueGreen Alliance is a national partnership of labor unions and environmental organizations dedicated to expanding the number and quality of jobs in the green economy. Launched in 2006, the strategic partnership now brings together major U.S. labor unions and America's most influential environmental organizations and unites more than 15 million members and supporters in pursuit of good jobs, a clean environment and a green economy. Visit www.bluegreenalliance.org.

Area Leaders Join Touring Worker Facing Furloughs to Call for Renewal of the Production Tax Credit to Save 37,000 American Jobs, Ensure U.S. Can Compete in Global Clean Energy Industry

DAYTON, Ohio (September 26, 2012) Local labor and environmental leaders today joined a furloughed worker from wind turbine-maker Gamesa at the IUE-CWA Local 755 union hall in Dayton to call on the Speaker of the House, John Boehner, to support an immediate extension of the Production Tax Credit. The lack of action on the 2.2-cent per kilowatt-hour tax incentive for wind energy — set to expire at the end of the year — was directly blamed by Gamesa for its decision to institute furloughs at two plants in Pennsylvania, including the plant of Ryan Motel, a United Steelworkers Local 2635 member who is currently on furlough.

“My job is at stake, but so are the jobs of many others,” said Motel. “If companies aren’t building wind farms because they’re not sure what their return on their investment will be, they aren’t buying our blades. My message to Congress is simple: end this uncertainty, save my job, and save the jobs of thousands of people like me across the country.”

Since this summer, more than 2,000 workers in the wind industry have been laid-off or furloughed and companies have cited the lack of certainty on the tax incentive as a main cause of them. Renewing the Production Tax Credit will put people back to work and protect the jobs of 37,000 more workers who stand to lose their jobs if it is not renewed. Gamesa employs approximately 900 workers in the U.S., with 800 of those jobs in the state of Pennsylvania.

Motel joins other workers in the wind industry in Pennsylvania, Virginia and Michigan to call on Boehner and other members of Congressional leadership to bring the Production Tax Credit up for a vote in the U.S. House of Representatives.

“Clean energy incentives like the Production Tax Credit have created jobs right here in southwest Ohio and around the country,” said IUE-CWA Local 755 President James Winship. “Workers in the wind industry have had good, family sustaining jobs – until now. Congress needs to step up, and save the thousands of jobs at stake by renewing the PTC.”

The American Wind Energy Association estimates that the Production Tax Credit will allow the wind industry to grow from the current 75,000 jobs to 500,000 jobs by 2030. Extending the Production Tax Credit through 2016 would increase total wind-supported jobs to 95,000, with total wind investment growing to $16.3 billion. However, without an extension, America stands to lose 37,000 jobs.

“Congress needs to understand the importance of these jobs to America and Ohio,” said member of the USW Local 1046 in Louisville, Ohio Lee Geisse. “Without an extension, the Production Tax Credit expires at the end of the year; to save and create thousands of good jobs in Ohio and around the country we need our members of Congress to push their Congressional leadership to call a vote on extending the Production Tax Credit. We’re here today to call for them to get this done as soon as possible to ensure these workers have jobs for the long-term.” 

The tax incentive is moving in the U.S. Senate, passing with bipartisan support from the Senate Finance Committee just prior to the beginning of the August recess, but it remains stalled in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Wind turbines consist of 8,000 parts and 200 tons of steel. Since 2005, the domestic content in American wind turbines has grown from less than 25 percent domestic content to 60 percent in 2011.

The labor and environmental leaders argued the benefits of wind go beyond good jobs. “Renewal of the Production Tax Credit will mean cleaner air and better jobs in our region,” said Ohio Interfaith Power and Light Advocacy Chair Robert Downs. “We can help facilitate a move to cleaner energy sources that are better for public health, American energy independence, and our economic and environmental future. It’s time for Congress to get this done.”

“Until they act, we’re going to continue to bring this message to leaders in Congress to push leadership to pass the Production Tax Credit,” said Associate Organizing Representative from the Ohio Sierra Club, Neil Waggoner. “We need to save and create thousands of good jobs. It’s a no-brainer.” 

“Ending the uncertainty surrounding wind industry jobs means we all can enjoy a brighter, cleaner energy future and reduce the carbon emissions contributing to global warming,” said Leanne M. Jablonski FMI, PhD, Director, Marianist Environmental Education Center and Ohio Coordinator,  Union of Concerned Scientists. 

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 The BlueGreen Alliance is a national partnership of labor unions and environmental organizations dedicated to expanding the number and quality of jobs in the green economy. Launched in 2006, the strategic partnership now brings together major U.S. labor unions and America's most influential environmental organizations and unites more than 15 million members and supporters in pursuit of good jobs, a clean environment and a green economy. Visit www.bluegreenalliance.org.

Area Leaders Join Touring Worker on Furlough to Call for Renewal of the Production Tax Credit to Save 37,000 American Jobs, Ensure U.S. Can Compete in Global Clean Energy Industry

COLUMBUS, Ohio (September 25, 2012) Local labor and environmental leaders today joined a furloughed worker from wind turbine-maker Gamesa to call on Congress to support an immediate extension of the Production Tax Credit at the Ohio Statehouse Ladies Gallery in Columbus. The lack of action on the 2.2-cent per kilowatt-hour tax incentive for wind energy — set to expire at the end of the year — was directly blamed by Gamesa for their decision to institute furloughs at two plants in Pennsylvania, including the plant of Ryan Motel, a United Steelworkers Local 2635 member who is currently on furlough.

“My job is at stake, but so are the jobs of many others,” said Motel. “If companies aren’t building wind farms because they’re not sure what their return on their investment will be, they aren’t buying our blades. My message to Congress is simple: end this uncertainty, save my job, and save the jobs of thousands of people like me across the country.”

Gamesa employs approximately 900 workers in the U.S., with 800 of those jobs in the state of Pennsylvania. Earlier this summer, 165 workers at two plants were given notice that they were being furloughed due to lack of demand and the company attributed that directly to lack of certainty on the fate of the Production Tax Credit. An extension of the tax incentive is moving in the U.S. Senate, passing with bipartisan support from the Senate Finance Committee just prior to the beginning of the August recess, but it remains stalled in the U.S. House of Representatives. Motel will join other workers in the wind industry in Ohio, Virginia and Michigan to call on Congressional leadership to bring the Production Tax Credit up for a vote in the U.S. House of Representatives.

The American Wind Energy Association estimates that the Production Tax Credit will allow the wind industry to grow from the current 75,000 jobs and continue toward supporting 500,000 jobs by 2030. Extending the Production Tax Credit through 2016 would increase total wind-supported jobs to 95,000, with total wind investment growing to $16.3 billion. However, without an extension, America stands to lose 37,000 jobs.

“Clean energy tax incentives like the Production Tax Credit have created jobs, around the country and right here,” said Lee Geisse, a member of USW Local 1046 in Louisville, Ohio. “The families of these wind workers need them on the job, not on the sideline. And, Congress can secure thousands of jobs simply by renewing this job-creating tax incentive but it won’t happen unless leaders like Congressman Pat Tiberi step up and force a vote in the House.”

The tax incentive is moving in the U.S. Senate, passing with bipartisan support from the Senate Finance Committee just prior to the beginning of the August recess, but it remains stalled in the U.S. House of Representatives.

“Congress needs to understand the importance of these jobs to America and the citizens of our states,” Tracy Sabetta, the Ohio Outreach Coordinator for the National Wildlife Federation (NWF). “Without an extension, the Production Tax Credit expires at the end of the year; to save and create thousands of good jobs in Ohio and around the country, we need our members of Congress to push leadership to get a vote on extending the Production Tax Credit. We’re here today to call for them to get this thing done as soon as possible to ensure these workers have jobs for the long-term.”

Wind turbines consist of 8,000 parts and 200 tons of steel. Since 2005, the domestic content in American wind turbines has grown from less than 25 percent domestic content to 60 percent in 2011, supporting the jobs of 75,000 workers in the wind industry around the country.

The labor and environmental leaders argued the benefits of wind go beyond good jobs. “Renewal of the Production Tax Credit will mean cleaner air and better jobs in our region,” said Neil Waggoner, Associate Organizing Representative for the Sierra Club. “We can help facilitate a move to cleaner energy sources that are better for public health, American energy independence, and our economic and environmental future. This is a no-brainer and it’s time for Congress to get this done.”

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The BlueGreen Alliance is a national partnership of labor unions and environmental organizations dedicated to expanding the number and quality of jobs in the green economy. Launched in 2006, the strategic partnership now brings together major U.S. labor unions and America's most influential environmental organizations and unites more than 15 million members and supporters in pursuit of good jobs, a clean environment and a green economy. Visit www.bluegreenalliance.org.

Area Leaders Join Touring Worker Facing Furloughs to Call for Renewal of the Production Tax Credit to Save 37,000 American Jobs, Ensure U.S. Can Compete in Global Clean Energy Industry

PITTSBURGH (September 25, 2012) Local labor and environmental leaders today joined a furloughed worker from wind turbine-maker Gamesa at the Energy Innovation Center in Pittsburgh to call on Congress to support an immediate extension of the Production Tax Credit. The lack of action on the 2.2-cent per kilowatt-hour tax incentive for wind energy — set to expire at the end of the year — was directly blamed by Gamesa for their decision to institute furloughs at two plants in Pennsylvania, including the plant of Ryan Motel, a United Steelworkers Local 2635 member who is currently on furlough.

“My job is at stake, but so are the jobs of many others,” said Motel. “If companies aren’t building wind farms because they’re not sure what their return on their investment will be, they aren’t buying our blades. My message to Congress is simple: end this uncertainty, save my job, and save the jobs of thousands of people like me across the country.”

Gamesa employs approximately 900 workers in the U.S., with 800 of those jobs in the state of Pennsylvania. Earlier this summer, 165 workers at two plants — in Fairless Hills in Bucks County and Ebensberg in Central Pennsylvania — were given notice that they were being furloughed due to lack of demand and the company attributed that directly to lack of certainty on the fate of the Production Tax Credit

Motel will join other workers in the wind industry in Ohio, Virginia and Michigan to call on Congressional leadership to bring the Production Tax Credit up for a vote in the U.S. House of Representatives.

The American Wind Energy Association estimates that the Production Tax Credit will allow the wind industry to grow from the current 75,000 jobs to 500,000 jobs by 2030. Extending the Production Tax Credit through 2016 would increase total wind-supported jobs to 95,000, with total wind investment growing to $16.3 billion. However, without an extension, America stands to lose 37,000 jobs.

“Clean energy incentives like the Production Tax Credit have created jobs, both here in Pennsylvania and around the country,” said Heather Sage, Vice-President of Citizens for Pennsylvania’s Future (PennFuture). “Workers in the wind industry have had good, family sustaining jobs – until now. Congress needs to step up, and save the thousands of jobs at stake by renewing the PTC.”

The tax incentive is moving in the U.S. Senate, passing with bipartisan support from the Senate Finance Committee just prior to the beginning of the August recess, but it remains stalled in the U.S. House of Representatives.

“Congress needs to understand the importance of these jobs to America and the citizens of our states,” said Allegheny County Controller Chelsa Wagner. “Without an extension, the Production Tax Credit expires at the end of the year; to save and create thousands of good jobs in Pennsylvania and around the country we need our members of Congress to push their Congressional leadership to call a vote on extending the Production Tax Credit. We’re here today to call for them to get this done as soon as possible to ensure these workers have jobs for the long-term.”

Wind turbines consist of 8,000 parts and 200 tons of steel. Since 2005, the domestic content in American wind turbines has grown from less than 25 percent domestic content to 60 percent in 2011.

The labor and environmental leaders argued the benefits of wind go beyond good jobs. “Renewal of the Production Tax Credit will mean cleaner air and better jobs in our region,” said Randy Francisco, the Pennsylvania Organizing Representative for the Sierra Club. “We can help facilitate a move to cleaner energy sources that are better for public health, American energy independence, and our economic and environmental future. This is a no-brainer and it’s time for Congress to get this done.”

“There are real jobs in Pennsylvania that are being threatened by this and it’s preventable if only Congress would do the right thing,” said Sylvia Wilson, Special Assistant to the President for the Pittsburgh Federation of Teachers (PFT) Local 400 and Secretary-Treasurer, Allegheny County Central Labor Council, who also serves as the President of the Pittsburgh Chapter of the A. Philip Randolph Institute. “Extending the Production Tax Credit would be good for our economy, our environment and for workers in Pennsylvania and around the country.”

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The BlueGreen Alliance is a national partnership of labor unions and environmental organizations dedicated to expanding the number and quality of jobs in the green economy. Launched in 2006, the strategic partnership now brings together major U.S. labor unions and America's most influential environmental organizations and unites more than 15 million members and supporters in pursuit of good jobs, a clean environment and a green economy. Visit www.bluegreenalliance.org.

Local Leaders and Workers in Pennsylvania, Ohio, Michigan and Virginia to Urge Congressional Leaders to Save American Jobs 

WASHINGTON, D.C. (September 25, 2012) The BlueGreen Alliance today announced a multi-state tour focused on the need to save American jobs by renewing the Production Tax Credit, a 2.2-cent per kilowatt-hour tax incentive for wind energy that expires at the end of the year. The tour includes a furloughed worker from central Pennsylvania wind turbine blade plant, along with local wind workers on the ground and labor and environmental leaders in the three states. 

Since this summer, more than 2,000 workers in the wind industry have been laid-off or furloughed and companies have cited the lack of certainty on the tax incentive as a main cause of them. Renewing the Production Tax Credit will put people back to work and protect the jobs of 37,000 more workers who stand to lose their jobs if it is not renewed. 

“Congress is out there campaigning for their own jobs while leaving thousands of wind industry workers out to dry,” said David Foster, the Executive Director of the BlueGreen Alliance. “For the sake of saving jobs and lifting up American competitiveness and the economy, Congress must renew the Production Tax Credit.” 

Beginning Tues., Sept. 25, 2012, the tour will make stops in Pittsburgh, Pa., Columbus and Dayton, Ohio and Kalamazoo, Mich. with a final stop in Richmond, Va. on Friday, September 28^th.  

“Without the Production Tax Credit, the U.S. wind industry stands to lose significant ground, and America will lose our edge in the global competition for good jobs,” said Michael Brune, Executive Director of the Sierra Club. “By failing to act, we’d be putting the brakes on both a growing industry and an important alternative energy source. We can reduce pollution, make America more energy independent and leave a lasting positive environmental and economic legacy for future generations if we renew this job-creating tax incentive today.”

The American Wind Energy Association estimates that the Production Tax Credit will allow the wind industry to grow from 75,000 current jobs to over 100,000 jobs in four years and will continue toward supporting 500,000 jobs by 2030. 

“It was tough news when I heard about the furloughs at the Gamesa plant in Ebensberg, Pa., which included my job,” said Ryan Motel, member of United Steelworkers (USW) Local 2635. “I hope that those in Congress will see my face, hear my voice and have a better idea of who they are hurting because they haven’t passed the Production Tax Credit.”

Job losses in the industry continue to add up. Last week, in the biggest single layoff to date in number of workers and states affected in the U.S., wind equipment manufacturer Siemens Energy, Inc. announced it would lay off 615 workers in Iowa, Kansas, and Florida due in part to Congress’ inaction on renewing the Production Tax Credit. Recent layoffs have also been announced in Tulsa, Okla., Little Rock, Ark., Hinesburg, Vt. and Pueblo, Colo.

“The Production Tax Credit was vital to establishing the American wind market years ago and it’s vital today in order to expand wind-industry manufacturing,” said United Steelworkers (USW) International President Leo W. Gerard.  “Other job creating tax credits, like the 48C Advanced Energy Project Credit, which fostered innovation and created jobs in clean energy projects while spurring private investment, expired last year and should be revisited as well. We need to act on the opportunity at-hand to build up our clean energy industries for the good of workers, our economy and the environment.” 

Before the August recess, a Senate committee moved forward a bill to the floor that included the Production Tax Credit for wind energy and the Investment Tax Credit for offshore wind, however both remain stalled in the House of Representatives. 

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 The BlueGreen Alliance is a national partnership of labor unions and environmental organizations dedicated to expanding the number and quality of jobs in the green economy. Launched in 2006, the strategic partnership now brings together major U.S. labor unions and America's most influential environmental organizations and unites more than 15 million members and supporters in pursuit of good jobs, a clean environment and a green economy. Visit www.bluegreenalliance.org.

WASHINGTON, DC (September 19, 2012) In what will be the biggest single layoff to date in number of workers and states affected in the U.S., wind equipment manufacturer Siemens Energy Inc. announced Tuesday it will lay off 615 workers in Iowa, Kansas, and Florida in part due to Congress’ inaction on renewing the Production Tax Credit. The following is a statement from BlueGreen Alliance Executive Director David Foster: 

“Today after only a few days of legislative work since they came back from their month-plus recess, House members again prepare to leave until November to campaign for their own jobs while leaving thousands of wind industry workers out to dry. This is not the time for Congress to give up on these American workers, it is the time for Congress to stand up for them. 

“This layoff announcement now brings total preventable job losses in the wind industry to almost 2,000 workers. Congress cannot leave the work of renewing the Production Tax Credit unfinished any longer. Going another month, or another week, without renewing this vital job-creating tax incentive is simply unacceptable. Renew the Production Tax Credit now so that wind industry workers can continue to receive a paycheck and not a pink slip.”   

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The BlueGreen Alliance is a national partnership of labor unions and environmental organizations dedicated to expanding the number and quality of jobs in the green economy. Launched in 2006, the strategic partnership now brings together major U.S. labor unions and America's most influential environmental organizations and unites more than 15 million members and supporters in pursuit of good jobs, a clean environment and a green economy. Visit www.bluegreenalliance.org.