Recognizing the 40th Anniversary of the Environmental and Energy Study Institute

Floor Speech

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Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Environmental and Energy Study Institute (EESI) on its 40th anniversary. Since its inception, EESI has steadfastly worked to provide policymakers with timely, relevant, educational resources about environmental, clean energy, and climate topics. Through seven presidential administrations throughout its forty-year history, EESI has remained dedicated to its mission and providing much needed information to better the lives of Americans across our country.

The story of EESI begins in the 1970s when a bipartisan group of members of Congress--led by then-Rep. Richard L. ``Dick'' Ottinger-- established the Environmental and Energy Study Conference to help policymakers understand sustainability issues that were gaining in importance on Capitol Hill. By 1984, the Conference had evolved into an independent nonprofit organization: EESI.

As climate, clean energy, and environmental challenges have become more complicated and more urgent over the years, EESI has produced briefings, articles, fact sheets, issue briefs, and podcasts that clearly explain and synthesize issues for policymakers, with an emphasis on Congressional staff, while remaining objective and nonpartisan.

Moreso, I have the privilege of serving as a co-chair of the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Caucus, which highlights, on a bipartisan basis, the many benefits of clean energy. Each year, EESI works with House and Senate Caucus leadership to organize the Congressional Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency EXPO and Policy Forum. Dozens of leaders, experts, and practitioners descend on Capitol Hill to exhibit their solutions and raise awareness of how clean energy is creating good-paying jobs, promoting environmental justice, expanding economic development in rural communities, and contributing to national security and resilience. Now in its 27th year, the EXPO and Policy Forum is firmly established as an essential showcase and venue for policymaker education.

Many congratulations to EESI on 40 impactful years on Capitol Hill. As my colleagues in Congress and I consider new policies and investments to meet the climate challenges of today and tomorrow, I have no doubt that EESI will continue to be an essential resource and eager partner. On behalf of the United States Congress and Missouri's Fifth District, I applaud EESI for 40 years of achievements and I look forward to the years of success to come.

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