Climate Action Revolution Network (CRAN) is writing to contribute comments on the
proposed amendments to the ground water quality standards rule in the state of
New Jersey. CRAN’s goal is to engage youth in environmental action to address
issues which affect local New Jersey communities.
As young people, we are committed to building a resilient, equitable, and sustainable future for New Jersey. The NJREAL rules represent a critical opportunity to shape the development standards that will define our state in the face of climate change. Given New Jersey’s status as one of the most densely populated states, every new development must meet high standards of climate preparedness, sustainability, and public health protection.
Hello, my name is Kayleigh Henry, and I’m from right here in the Pine Barrens. Growing up, the Pine Barrens were more than just a place on the map—they were a part of our lives. The unique landscapes, the quiet forests, and the rich biodiversity have always felt like home. But now, home is changing. We’ve all seen it—the summers are hotter, storms are more intense, and the natural beauty we’ve known is under threat. Over the last century…
I am going to be perfectly clear in my testimony today on the off chance that the last decade of testimonies by fossil fuel divestment activists has confused you. This body, the Division of Investment, the New Jersey Treasury Department, and Treasury Secretary Elizabeth Muoio stand in blatant disregard of the climate crisis with its billions of dollars worth of investments in the fossil fuel industry. Every meeting all you do is listen say thank you and move on with no real action.
In a pivotal moment for our nation and the climate justice movement, President Joe Biden has announced his decision not to seek re-election. This decision, although difficult, reflects his understanding of the
immense challenges we face and the need for fresh leadership to confront them.
What do most young people and older people living in New Jersey have in common? Isolation without public transportation. Talk to an older person about their daily trek to school, and they may jokingly reminisce about traversing tall hills both ways, biking through parks, and long walks with friends. But as times have changed, the story of a contemporary young person’s trek has evolved and often includes stressful scenes of congested carpool lanes, emission-belching school buses, and dangerous highways.
Climate Revolution Action Network (CRAN) is in strong support of the responsible
and equitable development of offshore wind (OSW) energy off New Jersey’s coast. To achieve our goal of 100% clean energy by 2035 and prevent the most severe effects of climate change, New Jersey must take immediate action to diversify its energy portfolio with renewable alternatives to fossil fuels. As the youth voice for environmentalists, CRAN wishes to see the Garden State become a national leader in offshore wind energy to ensure the future of our planet and the well-being of generations to come.
Today I am here to express my support and GEN-Z’s support of offshore wind in
New Jersey. Without projects like these, my generation will not have an opportunity
to live their lives in a stable New Jersey. The climate crisis is already bearing down
on our state, causing once-in-a-generation flooding, storm surges, and an
insurmountable amount of destruction. We have already lost two wind projects in
New Jersey, and I implore BOEM and state agencies to do everything they can to
choose the right partners so we can see this project come to fruition. I’m not just
saying all of this for no reason. I grew up and live on the shore. I understand the
devastation we are facing here. The youth of the state, our children, and our
grandchild deserve better. I want to finish here today by speaking directly to
opponents of offshore wind. The ball is in your court now, it’s time to decide if you
will continue to let fossil fuel companies play you like a puppet or stand up for this
state. Stand up for future generations that dream of living at the shore. Stand up for
local fishermen. Stand up for workers who want to be employed in the green
economy. And stand up for this beautiful place we call home. Let’s turn our energy
challenges into economic development opportunities.
It’s an embarrassment that New Jersey is still invested in the fossil fuel industry
when the state’s priorities are in a totally different direction. Investment in the fossil
fuel industry is an investment in the destruction of my generation’s future and the ability to live and call this state a home. We urge the investment council to take
action on divestment not later, but now. Climate change is only a growing “threat,
and the longer that these fossil fuel companies receive our support. the harsher the conditions my generation will be trying to survive in.
