When Oregon launched a statewide carbon market in January, it became only the third state to have such a climate program.
Perhaps more significantly, Oregon demonstrated how governors can circumvent state legislatures by using regulations to create carbon markets aimed at cutting climate pollution.
“It’s a really great model for other states across the country, with [governors] who’ve made climate commitments, who can lean in to the authorities they have and actually make some real progress,” said Pam Kiely, associate vice president for the Environmental Defense Fund’s U.S. region.
States including Pennsylvania, Maryland and Vermont are considering creating their own carbon markets. Climate advocates are urging state action as President Donald Trump targets federal and international efforts to contain global warming and protect against climate impacts.
