California Sues Carmakers Over Global Warming - 9/22/06

Six of the world’s biggest automakers are being sued by California because of Global warming, “charging that greenhouse gases from their vehicles have caused billions of dollars in damages.

This is a first for this type of lawsuit.  Less than a month ago California lawmakers began the first global warning law.   They are trying cut greenhouse gas emissions.  Two years ago California was forcing tailpipe emissions to be cut from cars and trucks, but the automakers have been able to get around this with their own legal actions.  This new attempt from California is a way of trying to get them to follow their laws. 

Most people are calling this a “nuisance” suit, yet the environmentalists are praising this action.  In New York, Ford recently had a similar lawsuit which was dismissed and is now it the court of appeals.

Most automakers are making no comment.  Honda released a statement saying that they are attempting to produce an environmentally responsible technology. 

California is seeking damages in the tens to hundred thousands for past and ongoing contributions to global warming.  They also want to hold these companies liable for future damage to California.  As of now they are dealing with beach erosions, reduced snow packs, ozone pollution, and the impact on the animals and fish. 

These lower emissions do come at a cost, however.  People are “price sensitive” and do not want to spend the extra on a vehicle that is smaller.  This is not attractive to consumers.

Learn more: http://www.climatecrisis.net/

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