Sierra Club On Leading Edge of Green Wave in 2007

Photo by Svetaki

Early holiday cheer arrived on December 6 when the House of Representatives passed an historic energy bill that would establish a national renewable energy standard and increase the fuel efficiency of cars, trucks, and SUVs to 35 miles per gallon by 2020. Unfortunately, the following day the Senate failed to muster the 60 votes needed to avoid a filibuster, and ended up passing a watered-down version of the bill stripped of the renewable electricity standard and preserving some $12 billion in tax breaks for the oil industry. The House then passed this final version of the bill on December 18. Still, it's hard not to conclude the tide is turning, and federal lawmakers are finally starting to catch up with the desire of most Americans to move toward a more sustainable energy economy. The Sierra Club had lots to cheer on numerous fronts this year. Read a sampling of 2007 grassroots highlights and accomplishments.