Celebrating Earth Day
April 22, 2008
I have been honored over the past year to play a role in developing and implementing the Speaker’s Green the Capitol Initiative.
The Initiative is designed to show the American people the House of Representatives is leading by example. Addressing the issue of climate change begins with each individual, each household and each employer. We are no exception.
The House of Representatives will become carbon neutral in our operations by December. We’ll achieve this goal by switching to electricity generated by wind and solar power, using natural gas at the Capitol Power Plant, and implementing a host of energy efficiency improvements.
In addition, we will reduce our carbon footprint over the next 10 years by reducing energy consumption by 50 percent.
We have achieved real success in the last year.
- We now have a green cafeteria.
- Energy efficient lighting is coming to our office buildings.
- The Capitol dome will be lit with new, energy efficient lights.
- New computers and servers will mean a 40 percent reduction in our electricity use for information technology.
We’ve also learned an important lesson over the past year. Making the Capitol more environmentally friendly is just not that hard.
No technological breakthroughs are needed. No massive investment of federal funds. And no new federal employees.
Just personal commitment, a little common sense, and a lot of elbow grease.
We’ve also learned success requires commitment from the top, and I want to thank the Speaker for her steadfast support.
It is only fitting we plant a tree this afternoon to celebrate Earth Day. It represents our commitment to a greener future.
Thank you.
