PCC Supports Initiative-1631

PCC has worked for decades to build a sustainable agricultural system in our state and to reduce the environmental impact of our co-op. Agriculture relies on predictable weather patterns and a stable climate. Initiative 1631, which is on the ballot in November, is an opportunity for our state to reduce carbon emissions and to address climate change. The initiative will establish a fee on the biggest emitters of carbon pollution and invest in clean air, clean water, and a healthier environment.

Our co-op has a long history of advocating for policies related to food and the environment. We voice our opinion when we feel strongly about a policy issue and approach our policy work in the spirit of bipartisanship. Advocacy is an important part of our triple bottom line.

PCC supports Initiative 1631.

Washington state is abundant in natural resources – from our marine waters to our fertile farmland. Our commercial fishing industry employs 14,000 people and generates $1.4 billion in annual revenue. Agriculture provides more than 164,000 jobs and generates more than $10.6 billion dollars in annual revenue.

Our state is already seeing the impacts of climate change, including more extreme heat waves and increased wildfires. This summer, wildfires in our state not only made it difficult to breathe but also reduced crop yields and created unsafe conditions for workers. Our state’s shellfish industry and wild salmon populations are suffering from ocean acidification. Endangered salmon are in peril because there’s less water and warmer water in rivers and streams. It is important now, more than ever, to take action on climate.

Initiative 1631 includes a number of policy mechanisms designed to protect our natural resources by addressing climate change. We support the initiative because:

• The initiative was created by a broad coalition with a variety of interests and expertise. It is supported by a coalition of more than 250 organizations, which gives it a broader and more solid foundation of support than previous climate policy efforts.
• The funds raised by the fee will be reinvested in clean water, clean energy, healthy forests, soil sequestration, and soil health projects for farmers.
• The initiative will ensure that our state meets our carbon reduction targets. It aims to decrease pollution by 25 million tons a year by 2035 and 50 million tons a year by 2050.
• The health of our members and our food supply chain depends on clean air and clean water. The initiative would support both.

We support I-1631 as a step towards protecting Washington state’s natural resources for future generations.