The Hindu , Friday, September 01, 2006

Correspondent : Staff Reporter

SACRAMENTO (California): California will impose broad caps on its greenhouse-gas emissions under a landmark plan that marks a clear break with the Federal government and which backers hope will become a national model. Republican Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, who helped assemble the plan, called Wednesday's agreement ``an example for other states and nations to follow as the fight against climate change continues.'' The plan came after weeks of difficult negotiations and was sent to the state Senate, which approved it late Wednesday with a 23-14 vote. If approved by the Democrat-controlled Assembly, which is expected, the bill would then go to the Governor's desk. The bill requires the state's major industries — such as utility plants, oil and gas refineries, and cement kilns — to reduce their emissions carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases by an estimated 25 per cent by 2020. — AP

SOURCE : The Hindu, Friday, September 01, 2006