FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 22, 2016
CONTACT
Yasmine Evans (Edwards)--202-225-8699
Edwards Statement on Celebrating Earth Day 2016
Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Donna F. Edwards released the following statement in celebration of Earth Day, April 22, 2016.
“Earth Day remains one of the largest global initiatives to bring awareness and action to address the environmental threats we face in this nation and around the world. In the 46th year of celebrating Earth Day, more than 160 countries will come together to sign the historic Paris Climate Agreement. This agreement is a United Nations climate protection treaty which has the goal of limiting global warming to below 3.6 degrees Fahrenheit. This goal is a reminder that we need global action at all levels if we are to succeed in protecting our environment for generations to come.
“International agreements such as the Paris Climate Agreement affect everyone, from foreign nations to our communities right here in Maryland. In Maryland, we are dealing with significant environmental challenges that affect the public health of our citizens. From the restoration of Poplar Island to the Chesapeake Bay’s oyster population and the Anacostia River Restoration project, as a Member of Congress I’ve fought to protect Maryland’s environmental future. Earth Day is one of many opportunities to acknowledge the interconnectedness of our global environment and the responsibility of every community to pitch in.
“During a recent roundtable discussion I hosted on the impact of environmental challenges on Maryland communities, I talked about the importance of building a 21st Century green economy that will spur innovation, increase prosperity, and create jobs in Maryland and across the country. As we celebrate Earth Day and the signing of the Paris Climate Agreement, let us focus on what each of us can do to help achieve our goal of a healthy, sustainable environment. In honor of Earth Day, I encourage you to visit a nearby national park and experience an importance piece of our national heritage.”
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