Report links Maine sprawl, global warming

Sprawl in Maine is contributing to pollution that's heating the planet, according to a report released Thursday by environmental advocates and regional planners.

The report, "Driving Global Warming," uses U.S. Census data to show Mainers are driving farther in their cars and trucks every day as the state's population spreads out from urban centers into rural communities. Increased vehicle travel means increased emissions of carbon dioxide, a primary contributor to global warming.

An average worker living in Naples or Hollis, for example, produces three times as much greenhouse gas pollution as an average worker living in South Portland and Falmouth, the report says.

Authors of the report urged commuters to car pool, use mass transit or simply drive less. They also supported efforts by the state to require cleaner cars and to fight sprawl by encouraging Mainers to live nearer to service centers where they work and shop.

John Richardson, Portland Press Herald