Environmental groups list priorities for 2008

AUGUSTA – Requiring home builders to meet efficiency standards to reduce global warming pollution is among several proposals backed by environmentalists this year.

Leaders of 25 advocacy groups on Thursday presented their conservation and environmental priorities for the new legislative session in the State House.

They also want carbon dioxide emission standards for new power plants, tax incentives to rehabilitate existing buildings and reduce sprawl, and two dams on the St. Croix River modified so alewives can swim upstream.

Also on the list is a bill requiring manufacturers to disclose certain chemicals used in toys and encourage safer alternatives.