Issue Position: Environment

Issue Position

Climate change is a real, impending threat to human beings and our planet, and poses a unique risk to coastal communities like Rhode Island. It is the responsibility of leaders on all levels of government to acknowledge and take this threat seriously. Melissa is in favor of legislation that will create an environmentally-sustainable energy sector and economy, and reduce carbon emissions.

Investment in renewable energy is one of the most effective ways to solve climate change. Melissa supports solar, wind, and other renewable development, with careful consideration given to protect wild and green spaces from overdevelopment. Melissa believes that renewable energy projects can be an effective way to both combat climate change and provide sustained economic growth and job creation.

Environmentally-conscious community design is an important facet of environmental protection. As a City Councilor, Melissa sponsored legislation, including the Downtown Overlay District, that enables and encourages adaptive reuse of historic buildings and redevelopment of existing structures. She also supported funding energy efficiency upgrades to Woonsocket's street lights and multiple municipal buildings. Melissa will continue to support smart growth policies on the state level.

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