Environment and Climate Resilience
South Carolina’s environment is one of its greatest strengths - from our farmland and forests to our rivers, wetlands, and coastline. Protecting these resources is essential for public health, economic stability, and the wellbeing of future generations. Climate change is real, its impacts are already here, and our state must respond with science-based, forward-thinking solutions that reduce harm, strengthen communities, and build a sustainable future.
What I'll Fight For
- A statewide climate-resilience strategy that prepares South Carolina for flooding, storms, and long-term environmental change
- Clean, renewable, publicly accessible energy systems that lower costs and reduce pollution
- Protection of farmland, forests, wetlands, and natural habitats from reckless development
- Clean, safe water through modern infrastructure and strict oversight of industrial pollutants
- Environmental justice for rural, low-income, and historically marginalized communities
- Climate-smart agriculture and support for farmers facing droughts, floods, and extreme weather
- Sustainable growth that protects natural resources for future generations
Why this Matters in South Carolina
South Carolina is on the front lines of climate change. Communities across the state face rising flood risks, stronger storms, extreme heat, and long-term environmental damage from industrial pollution. Rural areas struggle with contaminated wells, outdated water systems, and limited resources to address environmental hazards. Coastal communities face sea-level rise and erosion, while inland communities deal with failing stormwater systems and river flooding.
At the same time, rapid development threatens farmland, forests, wetlands, and natural habitats. Industrial waste - including “forever chemicals” - has contaminated soil and water, historically having been distributed to local farms for soil and fertilizer without proper oversight. These issues disproportionately impact rural, low-income, and minority communities.
South Carolina needs a comprehensive, science-driven approach that protects people, land, and water while building a resilient, sustainable future.
Key Policies and Priorities
Clean, Renewable, and Publicly Accessible Energy
South Carolina should lead in clean-energy innovation. I support expanding solar, wind, and other renewable sources that are low-cost, high-efficiency, and environmentally responsible. I believe in a future where energy is integrated with green design - a vision that blends technology, nature, and community. I support exploring publicly owned energy options so communities benefit directly from the power they generate.
Flooding, Storm Resilience & Climate Adaptation
Climate change is increasing the severity of storms and flooding. I support a statewide resilience strategy that strengthens stormwater systems, protects coastal and inland communities, preserves natural flood buffers like wetlands, and uses science-based planning to prepare for long-term climate impacts. Resilience must be proactive, not reactive.
Clean Water & Environmental Health
Every community deserves clean, safe water. I support upgrading water and wastewater infrastructure, enforcing strict oversight of industrial pollutants, and addressing contamination from PFAS and other “forever chemicals.” This includes cleaning up the damage caused by harmful practice of distributing contaminated industrial byproducts to farms in the past, and ensuring rural communities have access to safe drinking water.
Conservation, Land Protection & Smart Growth
South Carolina must protect farmland, forests, wetlands, and natural habitats from reckless development. I support conservation easements, responsible land-use planning, and sustainable growth that preserves open space and reduces flood risk. Protecting natural resources strengthens rural economies and safeguards the state’s long-term environmental health.
Environmental Justice
Environmental harm should never be concentrated in certain communities. I support policies that minimize pollution, reduce exposure to hazardous facilities, and ensure that rural, low-income, and minority communities receive equal protection. Sustainability requires innovation, creativity, and a commitment to protecting both people and the planet.
Climate-Smart Agriculture & Support for Farmers
Farmers are essential partners in climate resilience. I support climate-smart agriculture, regenerative practices, and state assistance to help farmers adapt to droughts, floods, and extreme weather. Funding should come from a fair tax system that ensures wealthy individuals and corporations - especially those profiting from South Carolina’s resources - contribute their fair share. Farmers deserve support, stability, and a sustainable future.
Statewide Climate Strategy & Leadership
South Carolina should be a leader in climate resilience. I support adopting a statewide climate-resilience plan, setting science-based goals, and creating partnerships across regions and sectors. Long-term planning is essential to protect communities, strengthen infrastructure, and build a sustainable future for generations to come
Protecting South Carolina’s environment is protecting our future. I’m committed to building a resilient, sustainable state that invests in clean energy, safeguards natural resources, and ensures every community - rural or urban - has clean water, safe air, and a healthy environment. Climate resilience is not just an environmental issue; it is a public health, economic, and moral responsibility.