[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 66 (Thursday, April 24, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E714]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                               EARTH DAY

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                               speech of

                           HON. HEATH SHULER

                           of north carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, April 22, 2008

  Mr. SHULER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to support H. Res. 1117, 
supporting the goals and ideals of Earth Day. On this day we are 
reminded of the importance of protecting our environment for 
generations to come.
  Established in 1970, Earth Day commemorates the birth of the modern 
environmental movement. Thirty eight years ago today, 200 million 
Americans from coast-to-coast took to the streets to demonstrate the 
importance of environmental stewardship and conservation. Their voices 
are still heard today, as we continue to celebrate Earth Day globally.
  We must act responsibly and expediently to protect our environment by 
addressing global warming. Scientists worldwide agree that global 
warming is a reality and its consequences will be devastating and far-
reaching.
  Protecting our environment is not only crucial for this generation, 
but for the many generations to come. By implementing environmentally 
responsible policies today, we will ensure that our children and 
grandchildren will have clean water to drink and clear air to breathe.
  We must focus on developing renewable energy, reducing our dependence 
on fossil fuels, expanding access to sustainable resources, and 
increasing environmental consciousness. This Congress has taken great 
strides to these ends, but there is still much work to be done.
  I ask my colleagues to join me in supporting the goals and ideals of 
Earth Day. May we continue to make environmental issues a top priority 
of the 110th Congress.

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