Eugene proposes Clean Energy Fund to fund resilience against wildfire smoke

Local efforts in Eugene are supporting Measure 20-388, the Eugene Clean Energy Fund. This measure would impose a fee on billion-dollar corporations operating in the community. The fund is projected to raise $15 million annually to support investments in climate-resilient homes, businesses, and public buildings.

Supporters argue that reducing air pollution through these investments can dramatically reduce mortality and healthcare costs. A study cited in the report found that air pollution from fossil fuels alone costs the average American $2,500 and causes 107,000 premature deaths yearly in the United States.