Crossroads NJ Report Calls for Steps to Combat Climate Change

“Facing serious impending dangers from climate change, New Jersey needs, more than ever, to restore protecting its environment to the prominent role necessary for a healthy, secure future,” a new report from The Fund for New Jersey says.

The report, “Climate Change Adds Urgency to Restoring Environmental Protection,” is the third
in the seven-part Crossroads NJ series aimed at informing public debate in this pivotal election
year. It was produced by The Fund for New Jersey, which since 1970 has focused its
philanthropy on improving the quality of life in the Garden State by supporting good policy
decision-making. The other Crossroads NJ reports cover the state’s fiscal crisis, jobs and the
economy, criminal justice, education, housing and land use, and transportation.

The full text of the reports, as they are released, and other information about Crossroads NJ is
available at www.fundfornj.org/crossroadsnj

Calling for “a sustained, well-coordinated effort to prevent climate change from being disastrous
for New Jersey,” the report notes, “Our economic and physical health depend on devoting the
leadership, financial resources, and attention to scientific realities needed to execute common-
sense policies.” It calls for action in four areas:

1. Energy policy, including more reliance on wind, solar, and other renewable sources
2. Water supply and quality, necessary for our health and well-being
3. State and regional planning, to safeguard natural resources and communities threatened climate change
4. Environmental justice, so people do not suffer disproportionately from pollution and environmental problems because of where they live.

“The aim of Crossroads NJ is to present evidence-based policy recommendations, generated and vetted by experts, that The Fund for New Jersey Trustees feel are sound and workable,” said Board Chair, retired Chief Justice Deborah T. Poritz. 

Consistent with The Fund’s status as a philanthropic foundation, The Fund for New Jersey does not support candidates or political parties.