Wednesday, April 22, 2009

Rep Ed Towns Honors 39th Earth Day...

U.S. Representative Edolphus “Ed” Towns (NY-10), today commemorated Earth Day’s 39th anniversary and emphasized his commitment to reducing global warming and helping to preserve the environment for future generations.

A lifetime champion of green technology and improved efficiency, Rep. Towns proudly supported the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA), which is now investing billions of dollars nationwide in projects that will lower energy costs, reduce American dependence on foreign oil, and create jobs to stimulate our economy.

“I was a proud co-sponsor of the economic stimulus legislation that is helping to get our economy back on track while making crucial investments in green projects that will conserve our environment and halt global warming,” said Rep. Towns. “The stimulus is an excellent example of an opportunity where we can stimulate our economy with jobs that will help improve the planet.”

Rep. Towns also outlined several steps he intends to take as Chairman of the House Oversight Committee to reduce the federal government’s carbon footprint, including expanding the “Green the Capitol” initiative.

“Making older buildings more efficient, improving the fuel efficiency of the federal vehicle fleet, increasing standards for green buildings and requiring all federal agencies to use environmentally sound disposal methods are just a few things I hope to achieve as Chairman that will reduce the federal government’s energy consumption and save millions of taxpayer dollars,” stated Rep. Towns.

In addition, Rep. Towns also helped to fund local projects that will reduce Brooklyn’s dependence on foreign oil and reduce energy costs for all Brooklynites.

“Projects like the East River Kinetic Hydropower System (KHPS) Turbines, which will provide 5 megawatts of clean, renewable energy and create new high-tech, high-paying jobs are symbolic of the revolutionary steps we can take to protect our planet and ensure our children and grandchildren live in a safe and clean environment,” said Rep. Towns. “I am committed to supporting investments that will positively benefit Brooklyn and the entire planet for years to come.”