Local Business Leaders Call Upon Congressional Candidates to Act on Global Warming
100 businesses sign Greenpeace's petition demanding action to help the economy and the environment
Palm Beach Gardens - Today, local business leaders and Greenpeace held a joint press conference to call upon Representative Tim Mahoney and candidate Tom Rooney to support strong global warming solutions that will benefit both the environment and our struggling economy.
Almost 100 area businesses have signed onto a pledge that calls upon Congress to take immediate and responsible action on global warming. Greenpeace's "Businesses for a Safe Climate Pledge" will show Congress that people throughout Florida --from households to businesses--have a stake in a future that is threatened by climate change. Business owners also focus on the benefits that investing in a clean energy economy bring, such as millions of new jobs.
"Scientists have said we must act now to save the climate or we will suffer even more dangerous consequences from global warming," said Jack Bradin, Progressive Assets Management. "Business leaders are joining the chorus for action on global warming because it's already affecting industries like tourism, agriculture, and transportation, and it's only going to get worse without strong action."
"The people from Palm Beach Gardens to Port Charlotte are rising to the challenge presented by global warming-they are driving less, changing their light bulbs, and buying more efficient appliances," said Lauren Thorpe, Greenpeace organizer. "Now, local businesses want to know if our candidates for Congress will commit to doing their part to stop global warming and kick start the economy as a result."
The press conference included business leaders from all sectors of the economy. "With our governmental awareness comes a waterfall of economical incentives, much like the grant process, to enable everyone to build and maintain a cost effective business with a small carbon footprint. Providing green collar jobs at the same time. We feel it is a win/ win for everyone." State Blaine Campbell, founder of EcoCove LLC. and Treasure Coast based builder.
The business community recognizes the green available in going green. "Our company has seen the value in building certified green houses and buildings for our clients. With existing market conditions the way they are, it is important to invest in sustainable building technologies, not only to act as stewards of our environment, but to show our clients the life-cycle cost savings of such products." Ryan Strom, VP Parks Company.
But the overarching call was for help at the congressional level to enact the necessary investments in solutions to build a clean energy economy. "Solar and other renewable power generation industries deserve the opportunity to continue to grow and invest in this technology through the extension of the investment tax credit. When was the last time the oil industry was on pins and needles praying for a tax credit extension?" Justin Hoysradt, Abundant Energy IncThe pledge drive coincides with the congressional race between Democratic Rep. Tim Mahoney and his Republican challenger, Tom Rooney, which is one of the most hotly contested congressional races in the country. Neither candidate has a platform to address global warming and create millions of green jobs through investment in renewable energy.
Greenpeace is calling on Congress to slow global warming by:
Increasing our energy efficiency, limiting global warming pollution, and investing in clean, renewable energy like wind and solar.
For more information contact: Lauren Thorpe, 845.729.5750 lauren.thorpe@greenpeace.org