As a Stapleton resident and someone deeply concerned with the alarming pace of climate change, I believe it is incredibly important to bring salience to this issue within our community. We need to take action now.

Limiting the amount of carbon pollution that power plants spew into our air just makes sense. Many Americans believe these limits are already in place. But even though we already have safeguards in place to protect against pollutants like arsenic, mercury and lead, there’s currently no limit on the amount of carbon pollution power plants can spew into our air.

This carbon pollution is worsening air quality, triggering more asthma attacks and aggravating respiratory diseases. And it’s leading to more extreme weather. That’s why the EPA’s standards to finally limit carbon pollution from power plants are so important.

It’s a plan that can be shaped by the states, giving governors the flexibility they need. This is an opportunity for Governor Hickenlooper to keep playing a leading role in protecting public health and our planet for future generations.

Nicole Shook