CGA ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE

Public Hearing March 16, 2007

Support for:  HB 7377 AAC Green Buildings

Comments by Naomi Schiff Myers, Air Quality Specialist

The League of Women Voters of Connecticut is comprised of over 2,400 members across the state.  We support measures that increase energy efficiency and conservation, encourage renewable resources and control pollution, especially those that promote an environment beneficial to life.  We support the use of financial incentives to stimulate energy efficiency and conservation and urge your support for HB 7377.

The methods, materials, designs and operations of our buildings have a major impact on climate, human health and the economy.  The adoption of incentives to encourage the use of energy efficiency technology can maximize both environmental and economic performance and improve public health in Connecticut.  Green building construction can help reduce the prevalence of allergies, asthma and other respiratory illnesses due to improved indoor air quality.  In addition, buildings are a major contributor to carbon emissions found in our environment.  Carbon dioxide emissions affect the air we breathe and are a major source of global warming.  In addition, Green Buildings are not only more energy efficient, they are more likely to incorporate renewable energy sources and use grid power generated from renewable sources. For these reasons, we urge you to support measures that will provide tax credits for energy-efficient private construction.

The League is especially concerned about the air our children breathe in our schools.  We urge you to support legislation that will adopt LEED certification standards and support financial incentives for school construction projects.  Municipalities will realize significant operating savings, while the students will enjoy better health and benefit from a more conducive learning environment.

Thank you for the opportunity to provide input.  The League of Women Voters of Connecticut urges your vote in support of expanded Green Building Standards that will improve air quality, promote energy efficiency and will reduce global warming.

Contact Information: Naomi Schiff Myers, 15 Palmer Lane, Riverside, CT 06878, (203) 637-3892, naomi_myers@sbcglobal.net

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