There are no lazy days for the crew at CURE! Catch up on the latest news and keep an eye on your email inbox for more webinars, action alerts, and opportunities!
100% Carbon Free Energy ☀️ 🍃
Last year, Minnesota passed the “100% Carbon-Free by 2040 Energy Standard,” which was celebrated as a crucial win on the path to reducing our state’s carbon emissions and addressing the threat of climate change. But passing policy is just one step—laws also need to be implemented, and the 100% Law left many details about what a 100% carbon-free electricity system in Minnesota looks like undefined.
If we want the 100% Law to live up to its promise of a clean, renewable energy future, we need to tell the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission(PUC) what 100% Carbon Free REALLY means to Minnesotans across the state.
Otherwise, polluting and extractive industries will hijack the 100% Law to adopt climate “false solutions” that move Minnesota backward—like burning wood or garbage for energy or slapping risky and underperforming “carbon capture” equipment on aging coal plants in the name of “clean coal.”
➡️ Take Action on 100% Carbon Free Energy
- For a deeper dive into what’s at stake, read “Carbon Free TBD” a recent article written by CURE’s Legal Director, Hudson Kingston.
- Watch “What’s 100% Carbon Free?” a webinar from CURE and the 100% Carbon Free Energy alliance to learn more
- Read: Could other exceptions come with MN’s new carbon-free law? | Public News Service & ND’s Burgum says ‘unconstitutional’ Minn. Climate law must allow CCS | E&E News by Politico / EnergyWire.
People Not Polluters
Minnesotans expect our state agencies to protect our people, communities, and natural resources across Minnesota — NOT polluting companies. But often, that’s not how it goes.
In the People Not Polluters campaign, CURE has joined with allied organizations from across the state to call on the Minnesota Legislature to hold our state agencies accountable to the people of Minnesota.
Minnesota is fortunate to have strong laws protecting our people and places, but we need to enforce them.
➡️ Add your name to the list of Minnesotans who want to fight for People NOT Polluters.
Stay tuned // FEIS for the OTC Wilkin CO2 pipeline
On July 31st, the Minnesota Department of Commerce is expected to release the Final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for Summit’s CO2 pipeline in Otter Tail and Wilkin Counties. This Final EIS is intended to be a key information source about the impacts of the pipeline, informing the public and decision-makers—so we need to ensure the Department did a good job.
CURE’s lawyers and experts are standing by to review the document, and we’ll share our take. Stay tuned for opportunities to comment on the Final EIS and upcoming public hearings where you can have a say.
CURE Legal Interns
This summer, CURE warmly welcomes two legal interns to our team — Maria and Tom. We also bid farewell to our first legal intern, Keeli, at the start of the summer! Legal interns help CURE dig into certain aspects of state and federal regulatory issues and cultivate the next generation of legal minds to fight for our rural Minnesota communities and protect the places and ecosystems that make Minnesota home!
Welcome Andy!
This summer CURE also welcomes Andy Pearson to our staff as Senior Organizer, False Climate Solutions. Andy comes to CURE with an extensive track record of organizing people and campaigns, taking on some of the country’s most polluting industries, and advocating for a future where we can all thrive.
CURE Staff Retreat
In late June, the CURE team gathered for a staff and board retreat filled with laughter, learning, and strategic thought. This was the first time the entire staff and board had gathered in person in over four years! CURE staff has now expanded to include 13 amazing individuals, and our board of five directors is more passionate and focused than ever. Our time together included everything from brainstorming sessions to team-building activities. We strengthened bonds and refueled our passion for making a difference.
CURE’s “What Does Summer Look Like to You?” Photo Contest!
At CURE, we believe in the power of community and the beauty of our natural surroundings. This contest is an opportunity to connect with fellow nature enthusiasts and showcase the incredible summer experiences in rural Minnesota. Every photo shared not only captures a moment but also supports our mission to protect and preserve our environment. Deadline for entries is September 4. Submit your photo entries here.
