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“Green Jobs” issue (pdf)
As coal supplies reach rapid decline in central Appalachia, so are the number of jobs. Many of the jobs currently available are dangerous to personal health and exceedingly destructive to the landscape, such as mountaintop removal coal mining. Studies show a strong correlation between the amount of coal mining and high poverty and unemployment in those same communities. We need a transition away from destructive forms of coal mining and towards economic diversification in the Appalachian region to build a stronger post-coal economy.
Energy Efficiency: Saves Money, Creates Jobs
The energy efficiency potential of Appalachia could be a tremendous boost to the economy. Investment in energy efficiency could provide 15,000 jobs a year for the first five years in Appalachia, and provide consumers with a savings of more than $27 billion by 2030. Appalachian Voices supports legislation promoting energy efficiency, such as the bipartisan “Rural Energy Savings Program” Act which would reward investments in energy efficiency by providing interest-free loans to customers of rural electric cooperatives. The House version of the bill, H.R 4785 has been passed, while the Senate version, S.3102 is still in committee.
Responsible Wind Power: Responsible Energy Choice
Appalachian Voices supports responsibly-sited residential, community, and commercial-scale renewable energy in Appalachia. We are working within the North Carolina General Assembly to assure that a legislative ban on wind power does not become law. We also provide support to the Appalachian Institute for Renewable Energy, who seek to provide education about the benefits of community-based renewable energy.
Appalachian Voices encourages green job initiatives and alternative energy projects that are community-supported. For example, we have supported efforts by residents in the Coal River Valley to place a 328 megawatt wind farm on top of a the last standing mountains, slated for mountaintop removal. The wind farm would provide long-term jobs, $1.7 million in annual revenue, enough electricity for over 150,000 homes, and minimal environmental impact.
Forestry: Making Protection and Profit Compatible
Appalachia has long suffered the impacts of unsustainable logging. However most land in southern Appalachia is in the hands of private owners. Therefore, Appalachian Voices has created a free resource guide for private forest landowners who want to be good stewards and would like to learn about methods for managing and maintaining a healthy forest. [ READ MORE ]
ReEnergizing Appalachia