DeGette Comments On Earth Day

"In the 38 years since Earth Day was founded, theneed to protect our planet has never been more widely recognized. Whilewe have made great strides in cleaning our air, water, and creatingmore livable communities, much work still needs to be done. Our planetstill faces increased challenges through global climate change, theloss of important wildlife habitat, and increased threats to ourwilderness areas from runaway natural gas drilling in the West.

"The U.S. Congress has sounded the alarm and passedlegislation to invest in renewable energy and efficiency programs, andraise the vehicle fuel efficiency standards to 35 mpg, as well asconducted important hearings on climate change. I have also introducedthe Colorado Wilderness Actthat aims to balance energy development with protecting Colorado's wildareas. Together we can honor and celebrate Earth Day as we work tocreate a clean energy economy that can be sustained by our fragileplanet."