2008 Republican Convention Going Green Too?

Republican Convention Goes Green

As contradictory as it may seem, this year’s Republican convention will be going green. While the delegates will be debating environmental issues such as global warming, the convention hall in Minneapolis is transforming into a center of eco-friendliness.

How the GOP Is Getting Eco-Friendly

Some of the new changes include recycled-fiber carpet around the stages and booth made from sustainably harvested wood, energy efficient lighting, banners printed with soy-based inks, biodegradable plates, water made from petroleum-free containers and composted food. There is even an option to ride bicycles from hotels to the convention hall to minimize carbon footprints.

The GOP Convention Committee on Arrangements commented that, “The [committee] established very early that we want to host as environmentally friendly a convention as possible. Republicans, like all Americans, support responsible stewardship of the land.”

The GOP and Mixed Messages On Global Warming?

Republican presidential nominee John McCain has publicly accepted that global warming is a real, man-made crisis we face. So if he is willing to admit it, what about other Republicans? Most conservatives understand how alternative fuels could help relieve our dependence on exporting oil while still saving the environment.

On the other hand, Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty was shot down by oil and coal states last week after trying to set goals to lower carbon dioxide emissions at a meeting of the National Governors Association. Pawlenty may have hurt his chances of being McCain’s running mate in the upcoming presidential election by doing so.

Positive Signs From the Republican Party on the Environment

Overall, this is a positive sign from a political party with members that have staunchly opposed the idea of global warming.
Ironically, this also comes at the heels of a conference hosted by the Heartland Institute questioning global warming and attacking former Vice President Al Gore.

Either way, every little step counts, and the GOP Convention shows how far we have come. You can check out more about the setup for the convention by reading the MinnPost coverage entitled: GOP convention may go much greener than party will.

Photo Credit: REUTERS/Lisa Miller


Copyright 2008 Matty Byloos

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