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A project of Common Dreams

For Immediate Release
Contact:

Michael Oko, NRDC, 202-513-6245 or cell: 202-904-5245

Following is a Statement by Frances Beinecke, President of the Natural Resources Defense Council, on President Obama's Speech Today at the United Nations

"President Obama's speech at the
United Nations today demonstrates that he recognizes that delaying
action to curb global warming pollution is no longer acceptable. He
indicated that the Administration will continue to play a strong
leadership role on the critical issue of climate change - one of the
greatest challenges of our generation.

WASHINGTON

"President Obama's speech at the
United Nations today demonstrates that he recognizes that delaying
action to curb global warming pollution is no longer acceptable. He
indicated that the Administration will continue to play a strong
leadership role on the critical issue of climate change - one of the
greatest challenges of our generation.

"As international
negotiations heat up on the way to Copenhagen, all eyes will be on the
two largest sources of heat-trapping gases: the United States and
China. The leaders of both countries indicated today that they are
prepared to take meaningful action. While the negotiations will be
tough, there is still time to bring together developed and developing
countries on a strong climate agreement.

"There will be
no stronger signal to the international community about America's
intentions than bold action on clean energy by the Congress. Already,
the House passed an historic clean energy and climate protection bill
in June. Now the Senate is poised to move forward with its bill, with
Senator Boxer expected to unveil legislation next week.

"The
EPA has also taken important steps in limiting carbon pollution - like
the new fuel standards for cars and trucks proposed last week and a new
reporting system for large emitters of greenhouse gas emissions just
announced this morning.

"President Obama clearly
understands the urgency of the climate crisis and the benefits to our
economy, our health and our security that will come from shifting to a
clean energy economy. With his continued engagement the United States
can enact strong legislation at home and mobilize the international
community to meet this challenge."

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