Nov. 13--Expect a closer focus on environmental and energy issues next year, Gov. Timothy M. Kaine says.

Kaine said yesterday that he will make issues such as climate change and energy efficiency his main concerns in 2009.

"You're going to see a lot of action next year," Kaine said.

Also, the governor said he expected President-elect Barack Obama to make a push on those issues at the national level.

Kaine made the opening remarks at a conference of the Greater Richmond Technology Council, a group that promotes technology in the region. The event focusing on sustainability was held at The Jefferson Hotel in Richmond.

Kaine listed several environment goals he already has addressed, including an effort to protect 400,000 acres of open land.

The governor, now in his third year in office, said that during his tenure about 260,000 acres have been protected, mainly by encouraging people to give up development rights voluntarily in exchange for tax incentives.

Kaine said he and the General Assembly have approved nearly $700 million during his administration to clean the Chesapeake Bay and state rivers.

. . .

Efforts are on target to improve sewage-treatment plants, Kaine said, but the big challenge is reducing pollution that washes off broad areas such as farmlands.

Looking ahead, Kaine said he plans to recommend climate-change legislation in the coming General Assembly session.

A Kaine-appointed Commission on Climate Change plans to make proposals, such as energy-saving measures, for addressing global warming in Virginia.

Kaine said he also is working with Southern governors to come up with ways to reduce emissions that contribute to climate change. Several other regions already have plans, he said.

Kaine said experts from Wal-Mart are helping find ways to make Capitol Square buildings more energy-efficient.

Kaine told those at the conference: "You are truly talking about what is going to be the cutting-edge issue." Contact Rex Springston at (804) 649-6453 or rspringston@timesdispatch.com.

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