DENVER ~ Colorado Governor Jared Polis has taken additional steps to reduce air pollution and conserve water in the state. On Tuesday, he signed an Executive Order directing state agencies to phase out gas-powered push and handheld lawn and garden equipment used at state facilities located in the ozone nonattainment area. This will improve air quality and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

The Executive Order also directs the Department of Personnel & Administration (DPA) to begin using water-wise landscaping at all new and renovated state facilities. This will reduce the amount of water needed to maintain state facilities and improve the ecosystem by planting more drought-resistant and native plant species.

"I always want to ensure that our state government is leading by example when it comes to pressing issues like the housing crisis, workforce and job creation, and now we are doubling down on our commitment to lead the way in reducing pollution," said Governor Polis. "Colorado is leading the nation on common sense ways to reduce pollution and ensure Colorado can thrive."

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Representative Cathy Kipp (D-Fort Collins), who chairs the House Energy & Environment Committee, expressed her pleasure with Colorado's leadership in transitioning toward a more sustainable future. "State Government can and should be setting the tone for the state, and we will demonstrate that we can do our part to protect our air and water for Colorado families," she said.

State Senator Faith Winter (D-Broomfield) Chair of the Senate Transportation and Energy Committee echoed Kipp's sentiments, saying "These are important steps to ensure our state is setting an example and doing the hard work of addressing the climate emergency."

Since taking office in 2019, Governor Polis has taken action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from government operations by increasing renewable energy use, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, evaluating use of leased facilities no longer being utilized, transitioning the state fleet to electric vehicles, installing electric vehicle charging stations at state parks, providing grant funding for electric school buses, signing a law sponsored by Representative Emily Sirota, Representative Karen McCormick, and Senator Chris Hansen for a 30% tax credit on electric lawn equipment purchases.

The Polis administration's efforts have been praised as important actions towards creating a sustainable future for Colorado while protecting its air quality and conserving its water resources.

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