West-Side, watch out

Texas based oil company, Tecton Energy, which has gained infamy in recent months for its proposal to drill in Santa Fe’s Galisteo Basin, has signed a lease to drill for oil on 50,000 acres of Albuquerque’s West Mesa.

“This project could jeopardize our health and quality of life in Albuquerque,” said Environment New Mexico Advocate Lauren Ketcham. “This project also flies in the face of the city’s work to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and create sustainable, clean energy jobs.”

Threatened by similar proposals, Santa Fe and Mora counties passed moratoriums on drilling until the environmental, health and economic consequences can be fully evaluated.

Clean Cars Program goes to court

Since New Mexico’s adoption of the Clean Cars Program in November, several dealerships have sued the state in federal court, challenging the program.

In June, Environment New Mexico, along with 12 other organizations including the Natural Resources Defense Council, Sierra Club and the American Lung Association have as intervener-defendants in the case to defend New Mexico’s clean car standards.

“These lawsuits are frivolous. We’re confident that the courts will uphold New Mexico’s program,” said Lauren Ketcham. “It’s unfortunate that the auto industry continues to fight innovation, rather than rolling up their sleeves and working to deliver the cleaner vehicles drivers want.”

New Mexico was the 13th state to adopt the Clean Cars Program, which will cut toxic air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions from new vehicles while saving consumers money at the pump.