WASHINGTON - U.S. Representative Edolphus “Ed” Towns (NY-10) today released the following statement in honor of Earth Day 2010:

“Since Earth Day’s earliest observance in 1970, our nation has made great strides in making clean energy and energy conservation key components in our society.   The Democratic Congress has worked hard to promote an economy based on clean energy initiatives that will help preserve the air we breathe and the water we drink, while creating jobs here at home and strengthening our national security.

“The best way to protect our environment -- and economy -- is to invest in the technology that will reduce our reliance on foreign oil and expand our use of American energy resources like the wind and sun. I joined my colleagues in this congress to make an historic investment of almost $70 billion in clean American energy, through the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act, which has created green jobs and spurred clean energy research. Funding from the Recovery Act ensures our nation’s place as a leader in a global high-tech energy economy by investing in and supporting sustainable energy initiatives across the country, including numerous projects located in the 10th District. Recovery Act funds are supporting clean energy technology projects in my district like the Alternative Energy Research at Brooklyn College and the energy-efficient conversion of the Brooklyn Post Office.

“I also supported the American Clean Energy and Security Act that will create nearly two million green jobs, invest in new industries that will grow our economy and reduce the pollution that is damaging our atmosphere.

“As chairman of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, it is a priority of mine to ensure that the federal government’s energy consumption and costs are reduced by utilizing comprehensive clean energy technology. I remain committed to working with federal agencies and Congress to continue the promotion of green technology and support for clean energy initiatives that will reduce harmful pollution, free us from our dangerous dependence on foreign oil and save taxpayer dollars by decreasing energy costs.

“Earth Day reminds us that even the smallest changes in everyday activities will have lasting effects in the protection of our planet and our American way of life. By working together we can make a real difference in the environment.”

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