Energy and Environment

Reps. Bonamici and Dan Young (R-AK) introduced the BLUE GLOBE (Bolstering Longterm Understanding and Exploration of the Great Lakes, Oceans, Bays, and Estuaries) that would reauthorize a NOAA program dedicated to researching and addressing workforce shortages in the "blue economy."

Science is back, and we have the momentum to take bold climate action. The ocean must be part of the solution. As congressional leaders on ocean issues, we have witnessed how the climate crisis is affecting both the Pacific and Atlantic coasts. Off the North Coast of Oregon, changes in ocean conditions and acidifying waters threaten many fisheries. Salmon, one of the iconic species of the region, struggle as waters become more acidic.

However, they are more expensive than a diesel bus. But Bonamici says in the long run, districts could end up saving more money. "Even though the initial investment is more. It's a good investment. They're not buying the fuel that they have to buy for the diesel buses and they won't have the same maintenance costs," she said. "It helps the health of our children, our community, and our planet."

When she introduced the bill earlier this year, Rep. Suzanne Bonamici (D-Ore.) said oceans and estuaries have grown more acidic in recent years as they absorb more carbon dioxide, hurting fisheries and threatening coastal communities and ecosystems. "Scientists predict these events will become more severe and more common on the Pacific Coast, but my 'COAST Research Act' will expand the scientific research and monitoring to help communities adapt and mitigate the worst effects," said Bonamici, the co-chair of the House Oceans Caucus and Congressional Estuary Caucus.