Senator Reed understands that a clean environment is important to our state’s economy and Rhode Islanders’ health and quality of life.  His conservation efforts have helped clean up and preserve Rhode Island’s open spaces, beaches, and waters, so future generations may appreciate the beauty of the state while living healthy, productive lives.

He also recognizes that our environment is under constant stress from a changing climate.  Warming temperatures and weather volatility pose a threat to our environment, economy, and national security, and Senator Reed believes that part of our mitigation strategy must include a national energy policy that limits carbon pollution, focuses on the development of clean, renewable energy sources that create jobs, and holds big polluters accountable.  He also believes that communities must take action to better adapt to a changing climate.  This includes the increase in resilience of our critical infrastructure and emergency preparedness.

Reed has fought efforts to gut the Clean Air Act, rejecting harmful policy riders and deep funding cuts that would weaken the EPA’s ability to address climate change and fight pollution that threatens public health.  He has also fought to maintain robust funding for the EPA Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds.  These key federal programs help states finance priority water and wastewater construction projects that support jobs, improve water quality, and safeguard public health and the environment.

Reed has also been at the forefront of a national movement to reconnect kids with nature and strengthen environmental education in America's classrooms.  He is the author of the No Child Left Inside Act, which would support outdoor learning activities for Rhode Island’s students.