PFAS: A Toxic Legacy Building in Illinois
These tongue-twister chemicals pose a danger to us, wildlife and our water resources.
1,000 Illinoisans Urge Lawmakers to Back Environmental Justice Bills at Virtual Lobby Day
Hundreds Rally for Passage of the Clean Energy Jobs Act, Toxic Lead Service Line Removal and New Air Permitting Reforms SPRINGFIELD, IL — Today, 1,000 environmental justice leaders, renewable energy advocates, youth activists, faith leaders, business representatives and consumer groups from every part of Illinois met virtually with over 80 members of the Illinois General …
30 x 30: An opportunity for Illinois
Reaching 30 x 30 in Illinois is a mighty, but worthy challenge.
2021 Environmental Legislative Update, April 16
See the top environmental bills being considered by the Illinois General Assembly this year.
Illinois Environmental Council Announces Illinois’ 2021 Environmental Legislative Agenda
Agenda Tackles Clean Energy, Clean Water, Sustainable Agriculture, Wildlife Protections and More SPRINGFIELD, IL — On behalf of their over 100 member affiliate organizations, the Illinois Environmental Council (IEC) announced today Illinois’ annual environmental legislative agenda. The 2021 agenda tackles the environmental community’s priorities across a wide range of issues including clean energy, clean water, …
Illinois Environmental Council Announces Illinois’ 2021 Environmental Legislative Agenda Read More »
Illinois’ 2021 Enviro Legislative Agenda
See the top environmental bills being considered by the Illinois General Assembly this year.
FAQs: Managed Native Gardens Registry
Learn more about Chicago’s proposed Managed Native Gardens Registry Ordinance with this FAQ document!
New Bill Would Eliminate Toxic Lead Service Lines in Illinois, Protect Drinking Water Standards and Public Health
State legislators and advocates introduce legislation that would create a plan, funding, and timeline for the removal of all lead service lines in Illinois SPRINGFIELD, IL (Feb. 22, 2021) — Illinois Rep. Lamont J. Robinson (D-Chicago) has introduced the Lead Service Line Replacement and Notification Act (HB 3739), a bill creating a feasible and equitable …
Analysis: Governor’s 2022 Budget Address
Gov. JB Pritzker unveiled his 2022 budget proposal. Check it out to see how and which environmental priorities will be funded next year.
Gov. Pritzker’s Mid-term
IEC’s environmental analysis of Gov. JB Pritzker’s administration midway through his first term.
From Toxic Fluff in Lincoln Park, to the Smoke that Blanketed Little Village: A Snapshot of Environmental Justice Issues in Chicago
Start learning up on what’s happening in Environmental Justice communities across the city– and we’ve just released a great blog to get you started!
Welcome Incoming Board Members
The Illinois Environmental Council is thrilled to welcome five new board members to our organization. Their expertise and experiences are as broad as they are impressive. We look forward to their contributions as we build power for people and for the environment. Reverend Darnell Johnson, IEC Darnell Johnson is the CEO and President of Urban …
Top Picks in the Biden Admin: What Enviros Need to Know
Get the nuts and bolts of who and what environmentalists need to know about the new Biden-Harris administration appointees.
New House Speaker, New 2021 Legislative Session Begins
As we look ahead to the spring session, we will be working with the new General Assembly on key environmental priorities, while protecting environmental programs from budget cuts against a challenging fiscal environment.
IEC Statement on Election of Emanuel “Chris” Welch as New Speaker of the Illinois House
The Illinois Environmental Council released the following statement regarding the election of State Representative Emanuel “Chris” Welch as the new speaker of the Illinois House of Representatives: SPRINGFIELD, IL — “The Illinois Environmental Council congratulates Emanuel “Chris” Welch on his election as house speaker and looks forward to our continued partnership in advancing protections for …
IEC Statement on Election of Emanuel “Chris” Welch as New Speaker of the Illinois House Read More »
Replace Toxic Lead Service Lines NOW
Take Action to ask your lawmakers to pass legislation replacing all toxic lead-contaminated service lines.
In Solidarity with the Legislative Black Caucus Agenda
The Illinois Environmental Council stands in strong support of the Black Caucus in these efforts, and encourages the General Assembly to take up this legislative agenda in the coming lame duck session.
A Threat to our Democracy is a Threat to our Environment
It’s probably no surprise to you that here at IEC, we believe government is meant to play a primary role in improving the quality of life for all– our communities, plants, animals and ecosystems. As imperfect as it is at the federal, state and municipal levels, and although governments cannot solve all of our problems, …
A Threat to our Democracy is a Threat to our Environment Read More »
CEJA Opinion Media Workshop
We are hosting a small training session for folks interested in learning about how they can encourage their friends and neighbors to support the Clean Energy Jobs Act through the opinion section in their local newspaper!
IEC Statement on Trump Admin’s Pending Deployment of Federal Officers in Chicago
The Illinois Environmental Council issued the following statement regarding the Trump admin’s pending deployment of federal officers in Chicago: CHICAGO – The continued uprisings following the murder of George Floyd have demonstrated yet again that while the right to protest may be granted to all, it is a privilege for only some in this country. …
IEC Statement on Trump Admin’s Pending Deployment of Federal Officers in Chicago Read More »
Jen Walling’s List of Must-see Treasures in Southern Illinois
Many people overlook our natural areas as a major highlight of things Illinois has to offer, but that’s a mistake: Illinois is beautiful.
Green Profiling: When Open Spaces Aren’t Open for All
Our work expanding access to open spaces and public lands isn’t done until everyone can safely access these spaces free from discrimination and harassment.
10 Great Illinois Spots and the Land and Water Conservation Fund
The LWCF has had an outstanding, though often unrecognized, impact on some of Illinois’ most significant places, from historically meaningful sites to a myriad of recreational spaces including national refuges and urban open spaces.
General Iron’s Pollution Doesn’t Belong Here
Take action to stop serial polluter, General Iron, from moving to the southeast side of Chicago!
FY21 Budget and the Environment
An update on how environmental priorities fared in the 2021 fiscal year budget
Life Without Running Water During COVID-19
We haven’t done right by the communities most impacted—Black, brown and low income communities—until we’ve guaranteed this vital resource regardless of zipcode, race or ability to pay.
The Truth About Illinois, the Great Feeder of the World
We need to accept that we were wrong. We must take a holistic approach to our food system if we want to survive another crisis.
Our Top Stay-at-Home Sustainability Tips
By Jen Walling | IEC Executive Director When so many of us are spending more time than usual at home due to the novel corona virus, Team IEC is sharing some of our favorite home sustainability tips and resources to help give a boost to our planet and your pocketbook. If you’ve had a chance …
IEC Responds to Trump Administration Rollback of Clean Car Standards
The Illinois Environmental Council issued the following statement in response to the Trump administration’s rollback of Clean Car Standards: SPRINGFIELD, IL – In the midst of the COVID-19 global pandemic, the Trump administration just finalized their brazen rollback of clean car standards. This move will harm public health by increasing air pollution, introduce more uncertainty …
IEC Responds to Trump Administration Rollback of Clean Car Standards Read More »
Legislative Update in the Wake of COVID-19
As you probably know, we typically send out updates on the status of the environmental legislative agenda on a weekly basis during the legislative session. However, these are not typical times and it feels wrong to go about business as usual when we are all so focused on the gravity of threats posed by the coronavirus, COVID-19, in our communities.
IEC’s Top Tip to Save the Planet: Civics and Advocacy
Looking back on this decade of questions, one of the most commonly asked is, “What is the single most impactful thing an individual can do to help save the planet?”
Hundreds Rally for Clean Energy in Springfield
Over 700 gather to call for the Clean Energy Jobs Act SPRINGFIELD, IL – Today, over 700 hundred community leaders, environmental and renewable energy advocates, youth activists, faith leaders, business representatives, and consumer groups from around Illinois – all representing the Illinois Clean Jobs Coalition – gathered in the Illinois State Capitol in support of …
Analysis: Governor’s 2021 Budget Address
Initial analysis of the governor’s 2021 budget proposal and it’s impact on environmental priorities.
Lawmakers, Advocates Introduce ‘Plastic-free Water for Illinois Platform’
Lawmakers, environmental groups, and consumer advocates bring the fight for plastic-free water to the General Assembly SPRINGFIELD, IL – Today, State Rep. Ann Williams, State Sen. Melinda Bush and the Illinois Environmental Council announced the introduction of a comprehensive package of legislation tackling the pervasive problem of plastic pollution from single-use plastics in Illinois waterways …
Lawmakers, Advocates Introduce ‘Plastic-free Water for Illinois Platform’ Read More »
Illinois’ 2020 Enviro Legislative Agenda
During this session, IEC focused on demonstrating public support for the Clean Energy Jobs Act (CEJA) and addressing ethylene oxide pollution.
Broad Coalition Calls for Statewide Drug Take-back Program
Illinois legislators and advocates introduce The Illinois Drug Take-back Act CHICAGO – Today, state lawmakers, environmental and public health groups, along with business, public safety and local government voices, called for a statewide pharmaceutical drug take-back program funded by pharmaceutical companies. The coalition called the amount of unused drugs in Illinois a public safety, public …
Broad Coalition Calls for Statewide Drug Take-back Program Read More »
IEC Responds to Gov. Pritzker’s Climate Remarks
SPRINGFIELD, IL — Today, Illinois Environmental Council Executive Director Jen Walling released the following statement in response to Gov. JB Pritzker’s remarks regarding climate change and his decision to prioritize clean energy legislation during his 2020 State of the State address: “At a time when the Trump administration is taking major steps backward on climate, …
Advocates Introduce Chicago City Ordinance to Combat Plastic Pollution
Aldermen, environmental groups, and consumer advocates bring the fight for plastic-free water to the Chicago City Council CHICAGO –Today, Alderman Scott Waguespack (32nd Ward) announced the introduction of comprehensive legislation tackling the pervasive problem of plastic pollution in Chicago waterways and the Great Lakes. Alderman Waguespack was joined by organizations in support of the ordinance …
Advocates Introduce Chicago City Ordinance to Combat Plastic Pollution Read More »
RSVP: 2020 Civics for Environmentalists
If you’re in need of a brush up on how state government works, how bills become laws and how you can participate in the process, this program is for you!
Cover Crops and the 200 Year Nutrient Pollution Gap
Nutrient pollution from excess fertilizer carried downstream by water and erosion is poisoning our drinking water, feeding toxic algal blooms and contributing to a massive deadzone in the Gulf of Mexico.
NEW REPORT: Illinois over 200 years from reaching nutrient pollution reduction goals
Conservation and Sustainable Agriculture Groups Respond to IEPA Agriculture Pollution Report SPRINGFIELD, IL — Conservation and sustainable agriculture organizations working to reduce nutrient pollution in Illinois waterways have issued the following joint statement in response to the release of the Illinois Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy (NLRS) Biennial Report by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) …
NEW REPORT: Illinois over 200 years from reaching nutrient pollution reduction goals Read More »
Legislators Stand Together to Introduce Legislation to Phase Out Ethylene Oxide Emissions
Statewide bill would protect communities from cancer-causing emissions CHICAGO – Today, state lawmakers were joined by Stop Sterigenics, Stop ETO, Clean Power Lake County, and The Illinois Environmental Council, to announce legislation that will protect the public from ethylene oxide (EtO) exposure through a complete phase out of EtO emissions. HB3888 sponsored by Rep. Rita Mayfield, Rep. …
Gov. Pritzker Signs Bill Repealing Kyoto Protocol Act
Illinois now clear to reduce carbon and other greenhouse gas emissions, act on climate change SPRINGFIELD — Today, Gov. JB Pritzker signed legislation that immediately repealed the Kyoto Protocol Act of 1998, a law prohibiting the state from creating restrictions on greenhouse gas emissions and addressing climate change. House Bill 3481, sponsored by State Sen. Laura …
Gov. Pritzker Signs Bill Repealing Kyoto Protocol Act Read More »
Gov. Pritzker Signs Bill Redefining ‘Local Food’
New law positions local businesses for success SPRINGFIELD, IL — On Friday, Aug. 9, 2019, Gov. JB Pritzker signed legislation redefining what shall be considered “local” food in the state of Illinois, making it easier for Illinois-based food producers and manufacturers to compete for state procurement contracts that prioritize “local foods.” Prior to the governor …
Gov. Pritzker Signs Bill Redefining ‘Local Food’ Read More »
Milestone Bill to Clean Up Coal Ash Pollution in Illinois Becomes Law
The Coal Ash Pollution Prevention Act is a critical step in fixing Illinois’ coal ash problem SPRINGFIELD, IL—Today, bipartisan legislation to protect Illinois’ citizens and the environment from the effects of toxic coal ash became law. The Coal Ash Pollution Prevention Act will result in stronger rules for coal ash cleanup and fund cleanup programs through permit …
Milestone Bill to Clean Up Coal Ash Pollution in Illinois Becomes Law Read More »
Illinois House and Senate Pass Landmark Legislation to Clean up Coal Ash
Bill addresses coal ash impoundments plaguing the state for decades Springfield, IL — Yesterday, the Illinois Legislature passed SB9, The Coal Ash Pollution Prevention Act, which now heads to the Governor’s desk. The groundbreaking bill addresses the many waste pits filled with coal ash, the toxic byproduct of burning coal, located all over the state. Illinois is …
Illinois House and Senate Pass Landmark Legislation to Clean up Coal Ash Read More »
General Assembly Sends Water Jobs Infrastructure Bill to Governor’s Desk
Clean Water Jobs for All Legislation Lays Groundwork for Thousands of New Jobs SPRINGFIELD, IL — Today, the Illinois State House of Representatives voted to approve Clean Water Jobs for All legislation (SB 2146/HB 3349), which creates the Clean Water Workforce Pipeline Program. The program provides training and resources for careers in water infrastructure and …
General Assembly Sends Water Jobs Infrastructure Bill to Governor’s Desk Read More »
General Assembly Repeals Act Preventing Greenhouse Gas Regulation
HB3481 heading to governor’s desk for signature SPRINGFIELD, IL — Today, the Illinois State Senate voted to repeal the Kyoto Protocol Act of 1998, a law prohibiting the state from creating restrictions on greenhouse gas emissions and addressing climate change. House Bill 3481, which is sponsored by State Sen. Laura Ellman (D – Naperville), passed …
General Assembly Repeals Act Preventing Greenhouse Gas Regulation Read More »