The Sierra Club’s Industrial Transformation campaign has achieved monumental victories this year, driving the shift toward cleaner, greener manufacturing. From lobbying efforts in Washington, D.C., to spearheading legislative changes, these accomplishments promise a sustainable future for industries and our communities.
Lobbying for Clean Industry in Washington, D.C.
The campaign kicked off 2024 by convening 30 volunteers and organizers from across the U.S. for a lobbying effort in Congress focused on decarbonizing key industries like steel, aluminum, and cement. This grassroots advocacy influenced critical federal discussions and boosted momentum for clean manufacturing policies. Media coverage included The New York Times highlighting environmentalists’ push to block harmful mergers and Politico analyzing the campaign’s role in transforming industrial sectors.
Billions Invested in Decarbonization
The campaign, formerly known as Living Economy, helped secure over $6 billion in federal funds through the Inflation Reduction Act and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for decarbonization projects that were announced this year. These funds are transforming manufacturing processes in states like Ohio and Pennsylvania, with investments in low-carbon aluminum, steel, and cement. RTO Insider covered these transformative investments, while InsideEPA explored the implications for industrial greenhouse gas reductions.
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Legislative Breakthroughs
This year saw the introduction of pivotal legislation such as the Modern Steel Act, which aims to reduce industrial emissions while supporting union jobs, and Methane Border Adjustment Mechanism Act, which leverages trade tools to support domestic investments in clean manufacturing. The campaign also championed the PROVE IT Act, ensuring emissions transparency that is integral to trade measurers. Forbes highlighted the Sierra Club’s advocacy for cleaner concrete and asphalt production, and NBC News covered the push for green steel as a cornerstone of industrial decarbonization.
Public Advocacy for Green Initiatives
Through reports like Trading Away Our Climate, the campaign exposed the environmental impacts of trade agreements that prioritize corporations over public interests. Town halls and panels brought grassroots voices to the forefront, advocating for sustainable manufacturing and environmental justice. Media mentions included Common Dreams, which delved into the trade report’s findings, and Axios, which covered the campaign’s focus on transforming green steel and clean energy.
Advancing Green Technologies
The campaign supported innovative projects, including Cleveland-Cliffs’ green steel initiative in Ohio, which is projected to cut emissions by one million metric tons annually. Advocacy also ensured accountability for public funding recipients like Samsung and TSMC in their semiconductor manufacturing processes. Politico featured the Sierra Club’s efforts to hold chip manufacturers accountable, and International Cement Review highlighted the EPA’s new labeling program for low-carbon materials.
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Holding Polluters Accountable
The campaign celebrated victories like the Keystone XL NAFTA-legacy case, which upheld climate-focused decisions against corporate lawsuits. It also opposed the Nippon Steel and U.S. Steel merger, spotlighting pollution and public health concerns. Grist covered the environmental risks of the merger, and The Hill explored the campaign’s role in pressuring chip manufacturers to align with climate goals.
As the year progresses, the Sierra Club continues to pave the way for a cleaner, greener industrial future. By aligning industrial policy with environmental goals, the campaign demonstrates that sustainable manufacturing is not only possible but essential. Join us in celebrating these achievements and supporting the work ahead.