Our Latest Reports
America’s current fleet of gasoline-powered cars and trucks leaves us dependent on oil, contributes to air pollution problems that threaten our health, and produces large amounts of global warming pollution. “Plug-in” cars are emerging as an effective way to lower global warming emissions, oil use, and smog. A “plug-in” car is one that can be recharged from the electric grid. Some plug-in cars run on electricity alone, while others are paired with small gasoline engines to create plug-in hybrids. Many plug-in hybrids can get over 100 miles per gallon, while plug-in electric vehicles consume no gasoline at all.
From the Smoky Mountains to the Outer Banks, North Carolina is renowned for its natural beauty. Unfortunately, rapid development over the past several decades has threatened many of our most treasured open spaces.
Recognizing the importance of preserving our natural places for future generations, North Carolina’s General Assembly established the Million Acre Initiative to protect one million acres of land between January 1, 1999 and December 31, 2009. While many important and beautiful places were protected in the process, it is now clear that North Carolina has fallen short of this goal.
At the start of a new decade, it is vital that North Carolina redouble its commitment to protecting important natural lands from development.
