[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 130 (Tuesday, September 15, 2009)]
[Senate]
[Pages S9365-S9366]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       CELEBRATION OF CARBON DAY

  Mr. DURBIN. Mr. President, this year, the State of Illinois has 
designated September 15, 2009, as Carbon Day. As an official State 
holiday, communities across the State are encouraged to focus on 
reducing our State's carbon footprint and preserving our environment. 
Schools, organizations, businesses, and communities throughout Illinois 
will participate in organized events ranging from tree plantings to 
those promoting recycling and composting.
  Carbon Day allows Illinois residents to find their own ways to help 
reduce greenhouse gas emissions and participate in the fight against 
global warming. Most of us don't think too much about how our daily 
activities contribute to greenhouse gases. This new State holiday asks 
people to think about that and offers ideas each of us can use to make 
a difference.

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  We do need to act. Global warming likely will lead to more severe 
heat waves and more fierce storms. That affects all of us. These are 
weather patterns that compromise air and water quality, reduce 
agricultural productivity, and threaten public health.
  The simple step of planting a tree this fall can make a difference in 
someone's carbon footprint. One tree alone can absorb as much carbon 
dioxide as a single car can produce over 26,000 miles of driving. The 
more trees we plant, the greater the impact. One acre of trees may 
remove up to 2.6 tons of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere in 1 year 
alone. Trees planted in the fall generally require less water than 
those planted in the spring, making this a good time to get started.
  Every person can contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and 
work to provide future generations with a healthy environment. This 
September 15, I urge the people of Illinois to participate in Carbon 
Day events throughout the State, learn about the simple steps they can 
take to reduce their carbon footprint, and have a lasting impact on 
their environment.

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