Audio: Bridge to Disaster – Resisting Fracked Gas in the PNW

On Feburary 23, 2017 organizers from a number of climate/social action organizations (listed below) joined forces to promote resistance to fracked methane being implemented as a fuel source for our local power grid, as well as for export to foreign markets. Methane – a greenhouse gas with 86 times the heat trapping potential of carbon – is being extracted from shale fields throughout the country with leaks are occurring regularly.

The technology already exists to transition to 100% renewable energy sources, however the incentive to do so for utility companies is lacking due to the reduced profit margins for shareholders.

PGE plans to build 2 new natural gas power plants at the Carty Boardman site using primarily fracked methane as their fuel source. Natural gas is being promoted as a cleaner bridge fuel to the future, however it is merely just another fossil fuel with a myriad of public health threats.

The presentation focuses on engaging people in the various regulatory processes available to create a degree of regulatory uncertainty for the fossil fuel and utility industry. Through continual efforts by the public we can fight for the transition to 100% renewable energy.

Contributing organizations:
Oregon Physicians for Social Responsibility
The Climate Action Coalition
The Sierra Club (Oregon Chapter)
Columbia River Keeper
350PDX
Porland Rising Tide
Greenpeace PNW