Re: "Green Industry Stands Ready to Stimulate the Economy," April 7, 2008.

Today, the current state of the American economy is on the minds of most Americans. In addition to stabilizing the economy, global warming is another issue that needs to be addressed immediately. The eight warmest years on record have all occurred since 1998, and we are seeing the early signs of global warming worldwide. Here in Minnesota, global warming threatens to cause severe health problems in the elderly and the very young as more frequent and severe heat waves continue to occur.

With all of the technology and ingenuity at our disposal, it is clear that the two problems can be addressed through one common solution: encouraging the growth of the green economy.

Later this spring, the U.S. Senate is expected to consider the Climate Security Act, a bill introduced by Senators Joe Lieberman ofConnecticut and John Warner of Virginia. Senator Amy Klobuchar should continue to support strengthening this bill so that it cuts CO2 pollution at the pace that scientists say is necessary-reducing greenhouse gas emissions by at least 80% by 2050. The bill should also require the auctioning off of 100% of the pollution credits in the cap and trade program to bidding companies, rather than simply giving away the right to pollute for free. By selling pollution credits this money can be used to stimulate the economy and fund renewable energy projects around the country.

Sincerely,

Jamie Richards
Federal Field Organizer
Environment America