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Fossil fuels, such as coal, natural gas, and oil, are currently the most common energy source in the United States. Unfortunately, burning fossil fuels for energy releases dangerous pollutants into the air. It is estimated that fossil fuels cause at least 15% of all deaths in the U.S. They affect our health from before we’re born until we’re seniors. Pollution from fossil fuels causes premature birth, damages children’s lungs, and impacts mental development and I.Q. Burning fossil fuels causes lung disease, heart disease, stroke, and dementia, as well as many other chronic health conditions.

Fossil fuels are also causing the climate crisis. The same dirty fuels that create air pollution and make us sick also make greenhouse gases that cause weather disasters. Many medical organizations including the American Medical Association, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the American Academy of Family Physicians have statements saying climate change is a dire threat to human health. The United Nations calls climate change a “Code Red for Humanity”.

We have seen the damage that comes from hurricanes and other strong storms with high winds and floods here in Georgia. These disasters bring death and destruction, and the damages are paid for by taxpayers.