by Glenn Compton
Environmental permitting agencies face significant challenges, mainly due to a lack of funding from the Florida Legislature. This shortage affects their expertise and enthusiasm, leading to insufficient reviews of large development projects. It’s crucial to assess the cumulative impacts of these projects, especially given Florida’s rapid growth. Quality of life in the state depends on how efficiently these permits are handled. The Legislature should reconsider how it allocates funding for environmental regulations.
There’s growing concern about a national trend to weaken environmental protections. Despite negative perceptions, the mission of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is still vital. The improvements made by the EPA are clear and impactful. Before the agency was established, a staggering 75% of rivers in the U.S. were heavily polluted, making swimming and fishing unsafe. The Great Lakes were facing significant threats, and untreated sewage was often dumped into local rivers, leading to extreme pollution incidents like the infamous fire on the Cuyahoga River.
Thanks to stricter federal regulations and EPA oversight, the situation has changed dramatically. Now, around 75% of America’s rivers and streams are safe for swimming and fishing, and the Great Lakes are undergoing rehabilitation.
In 1971, the EPA set air quality standards for sulfur oxides, which have led to marked improvements in air quality across the country. At that time, dangers like carbon monoxide were poorly controlled, clouding urban skies. EPA regulations have played key roles in enhancing our environment and public health.
Rather than dismantling these protections, we should ensure that the EPA can support innovations that prevent pollution and offer incentives for businesses that embrace these technologies. The goal should be for companies to not only meet but exceed existing standards.
People care deeply about the environment. Many understand that a healthy environment is essential for a strong economy. States with robust environmental policies often see better job growth and an overall healthier climate for business.
At ManaSota-88, we believe that a thriving economy must align with environmental well-being. To achieve our goals, it’s important to gather information from independent sources, rather than those with a stake in the outcome. This vigilance is crucial for protecting the environment now and for future generations. A free press and open communication are essential in this effort.
Glenn Compton is the Chairman of ManaSota 88, a non-profit dedicated to safeguarding the environment of Manatee and Sarasota counties for over 30 years.
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