PROVIDENCE — The Environment Council of Rhode Island recently released its Green Report Card for 2023-2024. The biennial document evaluates legislators’ records on the environment, and for decades these report cards and ECRI’s legislative agendas have served as benchmarks for voters and provided essential resources for policymakers.

The last Green Report Card called 2021 and 2022 “the best two years of environmental policymaking in Rhode Island history,” thanks to the passage of landmark legislation like the Act on Climate.

Though not quite as prolific as the previous two years, the 2023 and 2024 legislative sessions built on past momentum, according to ECRI, bringing some significant wins, such as advancements in responsible solar siting, stronger regulation of toxic chemicals such as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, an update to the state building code, and an amendment to make the Green Bond greener.

While Rhode Island has made some historic strides in environmental action over the past two years, the report underscores that much work remains to be done — particularly when it comes to addressing the climate crisis and honoring the state’s commitments under the Act on Climate law.

“We have seen significant progress in the last two years, thanks to environmental champions in our General Assembly, but we have much more work to do,” ECRI president James Crowley said. “Going forward, we need to act quickly and decisively to slash emissions from buildings and transportation and get on track to meet our climate commitments. We must ensure that all of our communities benefit from a just transition to a net-zero future. The next steps we take are vital if we want to secure a healthy and sustainable future for all Rhode Islanders.”

However, significant challenges lie ahead, he said, particularly in addressing the emissions that come from heating homes and businesses with fossil fuels.

The Green Report Card emphasizes the need for continued action, particularly in areas such as addressing climate and environmental injustice, better managing plastic and food waste, supporting urban farmers, and funding public transportation. In many cases, legislation to address these issues has stalled despite widespread support, according to ECRI.

Crowley noted ECRI calls on legislators, other government officials, and environmental advocates to use the findings of this report as a roadmap for continued action.

Seven senators received an A+, five earned an A, six received a D, and six earned an F. In the House, 13 received an A+, 12 received an A, 13 earned a D, and 12 earned an F.