Oregon Public Broadcasting

Governor Ted Kulongoski proposed a wide ranging plan Monday to tackle global climate change. As Kristian Foden-Vencil reports, he offered it as a blueprint for the next legislative session -- saying it’s good both for the environment and for business.

Kulongoski proposed a reduction in greenhouse gases; an increase in energy efficiencies; the development of more sustainable transportation options, and the creation of more renewable energy.

To reach his goals he offered tax breaks and the expansion the state’s greenhouse gas reporting system – with a view to having a regional carbon cap and trade program by 2012.

What he did not do, however, was put a price tag on his plans.

Ted Kulongoski: “I don’t know what the total price is, but I can tell you this, there is nothing in this list that is not achievable, even under the current fiscal system of this state. We can do this.”

Republican leaders welcomed ‘some’ aspects of the plan, but said families and businesses can’t shoulder any more rate hikes or expensive regulations.