Dear friends of CLF.

• Author: Warburg, Phil
• Position: Editorial

Dear friends of CLF,

DID YOU KNOW THAT NEW ENGLAND, with its population of less than 13 million, produces more greenhouse gas emissions than 92 developing nations with a total population of 566 million?

Often we look at our own little corner of the world and say, "Can we New Englanders really make a difference?" The answer is: "Yes."

On a visit to Boston in April, the European Union's Environment Commissioner, Margot Wallstrom, affirmed our region's importance as a partner in combating climate change. Disappointed by the Bush Administration's equivocation, she has refocused her hopes on the enlightened efforts of state governments and regional collaboratives. The May 6 release of Massachusetts' Climate Protection Plan is just one sign that her faith may be warranted.

This issue of Conservation Matters examines some steps we can take to reduce our dependence on greenhouse gas-producing fossil fuels. Wind farms, though difficult to site...