Letter to Editor, Washington Post, December 14, 2018

I was delighted to read the call to action from Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam (D) and Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan (R). As a Virginian who worries every day about terrifying climate reports, I am grateful that my governor is working to reduce emissions and mitigate climate consequences, particularly given the failure of presidential leadership on these issues. These are important steps.

But, the governors should acknowledge that the construction of gas pipelines, including the Mountain Valley and Atlantic Coast pipelines shepherded through Virginia by Mr. Northam and the Potomac River pipeline boosted by Mr. Hogan, will tie both states to a future dependent on fracked natural gas, which scientists (and these governors) have agreed contributes significantly to climate change.

I hope the governors will reconsider their support for these pipelines as they “get to work.” It would be hypocritical to claim the mantle of leadership on the environment when they’re simultaneously fast-tracking fossil-fuel infrastructure.

Beth Kreydatus, Henrico, Virginia