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For Immediate Release
September, 30 2009, 02:58pm EDT
Contact:
Erin McCallum, (202) 772-3217; (610) 207-5209
Defenders Commends Senators Kerry and Boxer for Furthering Efforts to Address Climate Impacts on Wildlife & Natural Resources
Legislation would hold polluters accountable, create green jobs
WASHINGTON
Today Senators John Kerry (D-Mass.), Chairman of the Foreign
Relations Committee, and Barbara Boxer (D-CA), Chairman of the Senate
Environment and Public Works Committee (EPW), released The Clean Energy
Jobs and American Power Act outlining a vision for moving America
closer to energy independence, clean technologies and a revitalized
economy bolstered by millions of new green jobs.
The following is a statement from Rodger Schlickeisen, president of Defenders of Wildlife:
"Today's legislation released by Chairmen Kerry and Boxer builds
upon the strong momentum toward a clean energy future that will
revitalize our economy and increase national security while at the same
time tackling climate change by holding polluters accountable for the
greenhouse gas emissions they produce.
"Addressing our heavy reliance on dirty fuels and other causes of
global warming emissions is an important first step. But, it's also
vitally import that we address the impacts of climate change that are
already being seen and felt by humans, wildlife and the natural
resources that we all rely on. We are pleased that members of the
Senate have recognized the urgent need to safeguard our wildlife and
natural resources from the worst impacts of global warming.
"By holding polluters accountable for their global warming
pollution, this bill will allow us to tackle both the source of the
problem as well as support the solutions we need to invest in the
future of our communities and natural resources. We look forward to
working closely with the Senate to build upon the solid policy
foundation they have laid today with the much needed funding measures
that are necessary to safeguard America's wildlife and vital natural
resources."
Read the bill online
Read more about Defenders' work to safeguard wildlife from the impacts of global warming
Defenders of Wildlife is the premier U.S.-based national conservation organization dedicated to the protection and restoration of imperiled species and their habitats in North America.
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