Green move: US House clears climate bill

The US House of Representatives narrowly approved a historic climate bill for the first time that would force US companies to limit greenhouse-gas emissions blamed for global warming. The 219-212 vote marks a major victory for president Barack Obama, who has made global warming and clean energy legislation a top priority for his administration. But the legislation deeply divided US politicians, businesses and even climate groups.


The outcome of the House vote was uncertain to the very last minute: Only eight Republicans voted in favour and 43 Democrats voted against the measure. The bill now moves to the Senate, which could have an even tougher time getting the measure passed. Groups on both sides have also vowed to continue pushing for changes as the legislation makes its way through the US Congress.


The US, which together with China emits about half of the world’s greenhouse gases, has long faced pressure from other governments to more aggressively reduce its carbon footprint.

Link TOI