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Alternative Futures
A
continued near-complete reliance on fossil fuels presents significant
risks for Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket:
- National
security challenges associated with dependence on oil and natural
gas from the Middle East and elsewhere ... continued instability
and conflict!
- Economic
challenges, including skyrocketing prices and capital flight
... we already suffer some of the highest prices in the United
States!
- Depletion
of finite resources ... peak oil and gas!
- Destruction
of natural environments due to drilling and mining ...
- Degradation
of air and water quality to spills, groundwater contamination,
air pollution, etc. ... we've had massive spills, aquifers are
contaminated with gasoline additivies, airborne pollution is
one of the top 3 contributors to nutrient loading problems,
the Cape has the worst air quality in the state!
- Public
health impacts, including respiratory and cardiovascular disease
... bad air quality harms residents and visitors, especially
children and seniors!
- Harm to
wildlife due to pollution and environmental degradation, etc.
... many local ponds are closed to fishing due to mercury contamination!
- Climate
change resulting in sea level rise, storm damage, saltwater
contamination of drinking water, disease, disruption, etc. ...
this region was formed by previous climatic episodes and is
surrounded by rising seas!
A
cleaner and green energy future promises substantial benefits
for the Cape, Vineyard, and Nantucket:
Visit the
CIGoGreen Guide and start
taking action!
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