March 28, 2024

Hoyer: US Must Lead Way to Protect Planet

Planet
NASA photo

Congressman Steny H. Hoyer wants to remind 5th District residents of their responsibility to protect the air, water, wildlife habitats, and public lands for future generations and recommit themselves to addressing the threat of climate change.

“Fifty years ago, we celebrated the first Earth Day, hopeful that Americans could lead the way in stopping the dangerous pollution dirtying our air, water, and wildlife habitats. In the decades since, we have had significant victories –- with the passage of the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, Endangered Species Act, and the National Environmental Policy Act, as well as the signing of international agreements like the Montreal Protocol and the Paris Agreement. The air we breathe and water we drink is cleaner, and our economy has grown, yet more work remains,” Mr. Hoyer (D-MD) said in a statement issued April 22.

“Since that time, we have also seen the rise and urgency of a climate crisis that threatens all nations with rising sea levels, drought, wildfires, and more-frequent and severe weather,” he said.

He also noted that we are living at a time when denial of basic science is rampant.

“As we continue to confront the coronavirus pandemic, let us remember that the same factors driving climate change also put more people at risk from respiratory diseases, like COVID-19. A global challenge requires a global response, which is why we must work across borders to protect our planet and safeguard the most vulnerable from climate change and natural disasters,” he said.

That’s why House Democrats passed H.R. 9, the Climate Action Now Act, last year in order to reaffirm the principles of the Paris Global Climate Agreement.

“It’s why we must also push for America to work in concert with the rest of the world in combatting coronavirus and ensuring that critical, life-saving resources are available to all those who need them,” Congressman Hoyer said.

He said that House Democrats will not rest as long the air, water, and the health of the planet is threatened.

“We will continue to pursue bold initiatives to protect public health and mitigate the effects of climate change. Fifty years after the first Earth Day, we are as resolute as ever in our determination that America must lead the way to protect this planet we share and ensure that it can continue to sustain humanity for generations to come.”

Follow Congressman Hoyer on Facebook and Twitter.

For more information about House Majority Leader Steny H. Hoyer, visit his Leader member page.

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