Conservative Utah leaders voice support for climate action

SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — More than 100 state leaders from across the political spectrum gathered virtually Wednesday morning to sign, what they are calling, the first-ever Utah Climate and Clean Air Compact — urging the state to become a national leader on climate action.

The compact calls on state and local leaders — as well as all Utahns — to adopt the seven major recommendations laid out in the Utah Roadmap, a report commissioned by the state Legislature that recommends seven ‘mileposts’ to improve air quality and address the impacts of climate change over the next 30 years.

Those involved in the compact also pledge to act as responsible stewards of the environment and address a wide range of climate and clean air challenges, such as the economy and re-energizing rural communities.

“The roadmap will only be successful if we follow up to solve our problems,” said Scott Anderson, president and CEO of Zions Bank and one of the compact’s signees. “It will take all of us working with the Legislature to accomplish our goal of having a healthier planet and cleaner air that will lead to healthier lives and a stronger economy.”

Other signees include Rep. John Curtis, R-UT, Rep. Ben McAdams, D-UT and former Gov. Jon Huntsman. Real estate mogul Kem Gardner signed on as well, along with representatives from banks and investment firms, religious organizations and the Utah Inland Port Authority.

Sen. Mitt Romney, R- UT, appeared at the event and called global warming one of the three great challenges the country faces this century, though a spokesperson noted he was still considering the compact and has not signed it.

New York Times Columnist Thomas Friedman spoke at the online event, calling it the most important thing happening in Utah — even with a vice presidential debate scheduled later in the day...