Comment Log Display

Dear Sir or Madam,

Thank you for providing this opportunity to comment on the AB 32
Scoping Plan.  Global warming is the challenge of our generation. 
Meeting this challenge requires fundamental changes in the way we
grow our communities.  

As an urban planner and concerned citizen, I feel it is very
important that the CARB Board act aggressively to cut CO2 emissions
by setting appropriate emissions targets for the land use sector. 


Significant emissions reductions can result from regulating the
current suburban sprawl land use pattern that is predominant in the
state through a high emissions reduction target for the land use
sector.  CARB should raise the land use target in the AB 32 Scoping
Plan from 5 million metric tons of C02 equivalent (MMT) to 11-14
MMT.

A higher target means that growth will be directed in ways that
cut greenhouse gas emissions by lowering vehicle miles traveled,
increasing opportunities for walking and biking, and making transit
accessible for more people.  As shown by the analysis of Dr. Reid
Ewing and Dr. Arthur C. Nelson, the 5 MMT target is based upon
models that are widely acknowledged to underestimate the benefits
of dense, mixed-use development, while the higher target is
achievable with policies California is already considering.

Setting a higher target for the land use sector will also signal
to the world that new land use patterns are a high priority in the
fight against global warming. Conversely, a low target will send
the signal that business-as-usual development should continue, and
that land use reform is a low priority for California.

A higher target must be coupled with a commitment to provide
financial resources, technical assistance, and other support to
help regions, local governments, and transportation agencies
achieve the target.  

I very strongly encourage you to set a high target for the land
use sector in the AB 32 Scoping Plan.  Thank you very much for your
time and consideration.

Sincerely,
Sailaja Kurella