Congresswoman Laura Richardson's Statement Honoring The 40th Anniversary Of Earth Day

Statement

Today, Congresswoman Laura Richardson released the following statement in recognition of the 40th anniversary of Earth Day on April 22.

"For four decades, Earth Day has reminded us of how important it is to protect our natural resources, from the air we breathe to the water we drink and the plants and animals with which we share this planet. In the 37th District, I am encouraging everyone to take some small and easy steps to embrace the legacy of Earth Day and work to improve our environment. By bicycling, carpooling and using public transportation, we can cut down on air pollution, which will reduce smog and result in a decrease in serious health problems like asthma in children. If we recycle, purchase biodegradable disposable goods and use reusable shopping bags, we can make a major decrease to the amount of trash we throw away each year, which will slow down the growth of landfills and the associated pollution they cause. And if we turn off the lights in rooms we are not using, purchase energy star appliances and keep televisions and radios turned off when not in use, we can save energy and lower our electric bills. These are just a few small changes we can make in our daily routine that will make a big difference for our communities and our planet.

"In addition, I am working in Congress to meet the goals envisioned at that first Earth Day 40 years ago. In addition to being a cosponsor of the resolution commemorating this Earth Day anniversary, I have also supported several bills to increase funding for green jobs training and to provide more energy independence, including most recently the American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009. This Act, which I voted for and has already been passed by the House and is now waiting in the Senate for its approval, would result in the creation of 1.7 million American jobs, help reduce our dangerous dependence on foreign oil by 5 million barrels per day and keep energy costs low for American families. This legislation will also require a reduction in the carbon pollution from major U.S. sources of 17 percent by 2020 and 80 percent by 2050, compared to 2005 levels, which will result in a healthier and cleaner earth for us and our children."

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