With ongoing cuts to federal environmental programs and funding, it’s more important than ever to speak up and help shape Illinois’ plans for the future of our environment.
Last year, the State of Illinois developed the Priority Climate Action Plan (PCAP), which focused on meeting our state’s energy transition goal – from job creation to reaching 100% carbon-free power by 2045. Now, Illinois is developing a broader and more long-term Comprehensive Climate Action Plan (CCAP) – and we have a chance to influence it from the ground up.
The Illinois EPA is accepting public comments on the CCAP until July 18. Prairie Rivers Network believes this plan must invest in transforming agriculture and prioritize land use, water, habitat, health, and community resilience as part of the climate equation. We’ve created a petition that our network can sign onto that highlights key areas that are missing – and where Illinois must lead.
This petition urges Illinois to:
- Align climate efforts with the Illinois State Water Plan to ensure better water quality monitoring, source protection, and preparedness for droughts and floods.
- Invest in natural landscapes like wetlands, prairies, and forests, which store carbon, reduce flooding, and improve air and water quality.
- Support the just transition for coal and rural communities by cleaning up coal sites, repurposing energy infrastructure, and assisting rural utilities in their shift to clean energy.
- Transform agriculture from a major source of pollution into a climate and environmental solution—by reducing fertilizer and pesticide use, restoring habitat, and investing in diversified farming systems.
- Strengthen community resilience through public health strategies, education, and green infrastructure as climate impacts intensify.
We believe this is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for Illinois to take huge strides to protect its people and environment while building a more just and livable future. Together, we can urge IEPA to adopt a health-forward, equity-driven, and land-based approach in finalizing the Comprehensive Climate Action Plan.
Raise your voice and sign on to the petition below before July 18th!
