The electric power industry accounts for more carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions than any other sector including the transportation and industrial sectors. U.S. power plants are responsible for nearly 40 percent of U.S. and 10 percent of CO2 emissions. Coal is the most carbon-polluting type of power generation.

Burning coal emits significant greenhouse gases which play a large role in climate change as well as heavy metals such as mercury and other toxins into the atmosphere.

Using shareholder dialogue as our tool for change, As You Sow is filing resolutions and engaging with electric power companies to move them to reduce their reliance on coal. We are asking the companies to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and replace coal with renewable energy resources.

In 2010, As You Sow is continuing its successful dialog with IdaCORP and engaging Portland General Electric on reducing its greenhouse gas emissions.