new jersey currents

fall 2011 edition

The NJ Environmental Federation (NJEF) has waged and won environmental and public health protections in the best of times and the worst of times. In the mid-90s, U.S. Congressman Jim Saxton (R-NJ) championed passage of the first ever Safe Drinking Water “right to know,” new programs to protect drinking water sources and related water funding. This was back when Newt Gingrich’s Contract with America, a platform designed to dismantle government environmental programs and funding for them, posed serious threats. We not only stopped them, we actually secured bi-partisan support to strengthen our nation’s drinking water laws.

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high stakes election for the environment

Catastrophic flooding just weeks ago, a record heat wave in July, massive snowfalls forecast for this winter – makes you wonder about climate change, doesn’t it? The science is clear and overwhelming. Climate change is happening and human action is a significant contributor. Yet, politics have locked us into an energy-policy stalemate, and we need real solutions now.

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making NJ safer one yard at a time

Suzanne Aptman, Northern NJ Safe Yards Alliance

For more than a dozen years, the New Jersey Environmental Federation has worked to end the use of toxic pesticides in parks, playgrounds, ball fields and grassy areas near waterways. Pesticides have been linked to health effects such as cancer, asthma, endocrine disruption and other respiratory disorders. The issue draws support not just from those who care about the environment but also people concerned about protecting children’s health. 

Suzanne Aptman, who runs the Northern New Jersey Safe Yards Alliance, is working to shift lawn care to practices that are safer for people, pets, and the planet. This organization was founded by several Montclair residents and is now hoping to extend its reach to the rest of North Jersey and beyond.

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Vote Environment on Election Day, November 8th!

The stakes are incredibly high this election. We are not only facing incredible hardships due to a downturn economy and vast unemployment, but critical environmental protections are being dismantled that are putting our families at risk. Strong leadership in Trenton and Washington could fix these problems. In fact, Governor Christie and the State Legislature will make critical decisions on issues ranging from climate change, clean energy, and hydrofracking to protecting children's health, open space, and water supplies by the end of this year. We need strong leaders in Trenton who not only understand the issues, but are prepared to stand up and fight the fight.

This election day, your vote is your voice. Your pro-environment vote will send a clear message that protecting our health and environment are a top priority. NJEF endorsed the following candidates due to their commitment to a clean water and clean energy future that will create jobs and a healthier environment. Please vote this Election Day, November 8th, they deserve your support.

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taking action to protect kids and families from toxic chemicals

The national numbers are staggering. Asthma rates have risen 100%, premature babies 30%, breast cancer, 40%, impaired fertility 40% and autism diagnoses 1000%. New Jersey has seen even higher spikes in these areas, often chalking in data that is the highest in the nation. Scientific studies have found links between all of these health problems chemical and environmental exposures.

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