While we may be disappointed by President Trump’s decision to withdraw the United States from the Paris Agreement, we know this will not deter our committment and determination to bring clean energy to market! Cities, states, and global corporations are making a tremendous impact through their sustainability initiatives. Economically, cleantech and renewables continue to grow at a record pace and provide jobs throughout the country. Keep fighting the good fight, we will be there alongside of you!

What news did you been reading last week? Share with us @GreentownLabs!

MassLive– President Donald Trump announces withdrawal from Paris climate accord

• We’ve all heard it by now, President Trump has officially withdrawn the U.S. from the Paris Climate Accord. Citing economic reasons, the President disembarked on a commitment agreed upon by over 190 nations. Many lawmakers, businesses and citizens were quick to share their disapproval of the decision while pledging to keep supporting a clean energy future. Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker reiterated that the states leadership will still uphold the values of the Accord.

Fast Company– Obama’s Clean Power Plan Might Be Dead In D.C., But States Are Rebuilding It Themselves

• While many are disappointed in the actions of the Federal Government, numerous states throughout the nation are providing hope. Tremendous progress has already been made in states that have enacted carbon policies and their work is being noticed. Now more than ever, it is crucial for state legislators to see the examples before them and unite for a better future.

“States are looking to these programs; they don’t want to be missing out on all the benefits the RGGI states and California have been seeing for revenue to be reinvested in clean energy initiatives and infrastructure needs.”

Boston Business Journal– What Boston’s leaders are saying about Trump’s decision to leave the Paris climate deal

• Massachusetts is one example of state legislators taking action to protect our planet’s future. The state has long been a leader in clean energy practices and policies, ranking third in the country for strongest cleantech ecosystem. After the announcement, state politicians have made it clear that the progress will not be halted. Find out exactly what Mass. leaders are saying here.

“We are committed to addressing climate change head on and will accelerate Boston’s efforts to become carbon neutral by 2050.”

NRDC– Report: Clean Energy Growing in States and Cities Nationwide

• According to new repots, six states get at least 20% of their energy from clean sources. While these growing numbers undoubtedly support sustainability, the economic impact is also encouraging. In fact, the clean energy sector now provides over 3 million jobs nationwide. Politics aside, clean energy is creating high quality jobs and enhancing prosperity.

“The adoption of clean energy across the United States is a trend that supersedes politics. “

Bloomberg– Clean-Energy Shares Hardly Move as Trump Pulls Out of Paris

• In financial news, the decision to pull out of the Paris Climate Accord is making little effect on clean energy companies. Since the announcement, stock prices have barely moved. The lack of volatility in the markets suggest investors are still committed to clean energy and expect the industry to continue upwards.

“The muted response is a sign that investors expect demand for clean energy will continue go grow, in the U.S and around the world.”

The New York Times– Wind Project in Wyoming Envisions Coal Miners as Trainees

• There is a future for everyone in clean energy, even for those who have spent much of their life working in fossil fuel industries. Golwind America’s, an arm of a leading wind turbine producer has committed to training coal workers for turbine installation roles. They seek American workers for full time, well-paid positions and provide all the teaching necessary. Now the program is moving to an unlikely place, Wyoming, where hundreds of coal miners were laid off in the last year.

“The more you hear these positive stories and you start to see more direct benefits, it changes local perspectives and kind of begins to open minds.”

To read Greentown Lab’s official statement from our CEO, Emily Reichert, click here.