Sister Joan Brown and Clara Sims of New Mexico Interfaith Power and Light provided comments on New Mexico's Regional Haze Plan at a hearing held by the Environmental Improvement Board. During the session, Sister Joan emphasized the importance of protecting national parks, particularly Carlsbad Caverns, which she described as a "Cathedral of the Earth" affected by industrial haze pollution. Citing Pope Francis' call for urgent action, she referred to the significant haze and air quality issues that rank Carlsbad Caverns among the most affected parks nationwide.
"The stakes could not be higher," quoted Sister Joan, reflecting on Pope Francis' discourse about environmental care. She urged for stronger action beyond the proposed measures of New Mexico’s draft plan, which currently targets 13 out of 23 identified facilities for pollution controls. Sister Joan noted that New Mexico ranks second in the nation for oil and gas production, contributing significantly to haze and pollution.
While expressing gratitude for the efforts by the New Mexico Environment Department (NMED), Sister Joan called for an inclusive plan that enforces retirement of pollution sources and evaluates the health impact of haze on local communities. She mentioned specific sources of concern such as the Cunningham Station Power Plant and the South Carlsbad Compressor Station.
"We are grateful for steps that NMED is taking and encourage continued ethical and moral leadership to Care for Our Common Home," Sister Joan concluded, advocating for responsible and equitable environmental stewardship.
