Senator Deeds’ Statement on the 38th Annual Earth Day

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 22, 2008

WILLIAMSBURG, Va.—Senator R. Creigh Deeds, a member of the Governor’s Commission on Climate Change, released the following statement today in recognition of Earth Day:

“Over the past 38 years we have made great strides as a Commonwealth and a nation in protecting our earth and preserving our natural resources, but much work still remains. Communities all over Virginia have started recycling programs, upgraded public transportation, and implemented progressive programs to protect land and water. As a Commonwealth we have invested in cleaning up the Chesapeake Bay, funded tax credits for land preservation, and provided grants for farmers to implement best practices in reducing runoff and pollution.

“This afternoon I'm spending time in Williamsburg, site of the birth of representative democracy, and today, the monthly meeting of the Governor's Commission on Climate Change, where we are discussing the potential devastation that would be wrought on Virginia should we refuse to act in the face of compelling scientific evidence. As the debate over the future of our climate wages in Washington, D.C., and state capitols throughout our nation, today's work is a chilling reminder of the urgency of this issue.

“Over the next year we must continue the fight to preserve our natural resources, to provide cleaner air and water, and to reduce output of greenhouse gases that lead to global climate change.”