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I am a member of Maine Youth for Climate Justice, writing in strong support of LD 1138. This bill would ensure that future projects undertaken by the Maine Department of Transportation (MaineDOT) adhere to the recommendations of the Maine Climate Council. This is essential for the well-being of our state, as the transportation sector accounts for nearly half of all carbon emissions produced here. That number must go down.
Currently, Maine DOT is not required to make a climate impact assessment of projects, as recommended in the Maine Won’t Wait climate plan. I think this is incredibly risky and short-sighted. Passing this bill could ensure climate pollution assessments, directing MaineDOT to examine new infrastructure developments from an environmental angle.
As a high school senior in rural Maine, I am incredibly reliant on roads and infrastructure surrounding transportation. I have almost no options for public transportation, and find myself driving long distances alone. While our public transportation system truly has a long way to go, ensuring sustainability in ongoing developments is a crucial step in creating a lasting foundation for a future system of green transportation.
Additionally, Mainers deserve transparency around projects that will directly affect them. I believe clear communication from MaineDOT is incredibly important. We deserve to know the climate impacts of developments in the state. As a youth advocate who will inherit the planet and the crisis that it faces, I hope to see LD 1138 passed.
Anna Lupien
Waldoboro
