Since the first Earth Day 40 years ago -- and despite incredible progress on myriad environmental problems -- America is now faced with a failing energy policy that continues to reward polluters, undermines the health of the American people, threatens our national and economic security, and keeps us dependent on energy sources from overseas. It’s time for Congress to stop stalling and start acting to create a clean energy revolution.
For Earth Day 2010, a broad coalition -- veterans, environmental, business and faith leaders -- came together on Capitol Hill to demand swift action on clean energy and climate policy. This event marked the kick-off a 40-day countdown (starting tomorrow) to Earth Day Revolution -- when Americans from all walks of life will carry out activities in Washington and across the country to support action to protect the environment, create jobs and enhance our national security.
All of us who support this cause have a role to play. Each of us must call on Congress to finally push aside the obstruction of the polluter lobby and stand with America’s Clean Energy Patriots. From today until Earth Day on April 22nd, we must demand that America’s elected leaders join us and deliver on the promise of clean energy revolution and climate action now.
NRDC's Wesley Warren participated in the kick-off event for Earth Day Revolution. (See video below.) His remarks ring true and speak to the urgency of the situation we find ourselves in:
Forty years ago today, the nation was divided by the Vietnam War. The Chevrolet Monte Carlo got 11 miles to the gallon. The song, "Bridge Over Troubled Water" was making its way to the top of the charts. And the NRDC was just a handful of environmental lawyers sharing office space in New York City.
In truth, there was no such thing as environmental law. No Clean Air Act. No Clean Water Act. No EPA.
But there were millions of Americans -- all across this country -- who dared to dream that we might do better. That we might enact laws to protect clean air, fresh water, wild places and fertile lands. That we might do right by our children, by doing right by our environment. And we gathered that April, right here in Washington, to say to our leaders it was time for a change.
Forty days from now, we will gather again, 40 years after the first Earth Day. We come together this year with a clear purpose, a clear mission, a clear vision of what must be done.
Climate change is the single greatest environmental challenge of our time. But it is far more than that. It is an economic challenge. It is a national security challenge. It is a humanitarian challenge. And it is a moral challenge -- the great moral challenge of our time.
Our opponents have spoken. They've been heard, loud and clear. Now it's time for the rest of us to weigh in.
On this Earth Day, we must say to our leaders, once again, the time has come to change. The time has come to pass comprehensive clean energy and climate legislation that will put Americans back to work, reduce our dependence on foreign oil and create a healthier future for our country. The stakes are too high for anything less.
You say you want a revolution? Well, you know we all wanna change the world. So, right here, right now, join us -- between now and Earth Day, we need Clean Energy Patriots to stand up and be heard. We need an Earth Day Revolution, not just another celebration.
Find out more at www.EarthDayRevolution.org.