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Here is
the text of the “Southern Air Principles” document
signed by Gov. Easley and the governors of Tennessee and
Georgia
Protecting
and improving air quality is essential to safeguard public
health, protect our natural resources and promote the
long-term economic vitality of the South. Air quality is a
shared resource, and all sectors of society bear a
responsibility for improving air quality and protecting our
natural resources.
Scientific
research and evaluation show that air pollution is not
confined to state boundaries, as evidenced by the adverse
impacts of air pollution on the Southern Appalachian Mountains
and other sensitive areas. Air pollution affects us all
regardless of where we live. The southern states are
experiencing unprecedented population and economic growth, as
well as associated increases in energy and vehicle use. To
ensure clean air and a reliable, affordable energy supply, we
must develop new strategies to address issues such as regional
haze and pollutants that threaten public health and the
environment.
Air pollution
sources, including power plants, emit multiple pollutants that
traditionally are regulated independently. It is recognized
that multi-pollution control strategies may significantly
reduce environmental impacts; provide more efficient control
of environmental pollutants; and support economic
competitiveness and cost effectiveness. It is in the public
interest to protect and preserve public health and the
environment while providing more efficient and cost-effective
regulation of pollution sources.
It is
critical that the states continue to cooperate through
regional partnerships that recognize the unique qualities of
each state and offer flexibility to address each state’s
needs.Therefore, we, the undersigned members of the Southern
Governors’ Association, hereby agree to the following
Southern Air Principles that will enhance local, state, and
regional efforts to protect and improve air quality; ensure
the protection of public health and welfare of the southern
states; and promote the attainment of a high quality of life.
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