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Earth Day +1

04.27.2009 | HMMH |

I had good intentions of posting yesterday, but the day got away from me.  Perhaps it was meant to be, since we environmentalists can now bask in the warmth of spring (finally here in Boston!) and review the Earth Day announcements that are meaningful for the first time in my life (well, since Earth Day began).

Other signs that Washington (dare I say the US?) cares:

  • – The House Energy and Commerce Committee is holding hearings on the Waxman-Markey climate bill.  Yesterday, Ray LaHood testified and gave DOT’s support.
  • – Also yesterday, Senators Carper, Inhofe, Boxer and Kerry introduced legislation directing the EPA to study the environmental impact of black carbon and the most cost-effective ways to reduce its emissions (especially interesting since Inhofe opposes the EPA’s regulatory efforts on climate).
  • – And now even WalMart is on the Green bandwagon.  I heard a radio spot this morning on the environmental benefits of buying a double package of Cheerios – I find it interesting that they’ve found a way to make consumption virtuous!
  • – My five-year old spent last week learning about “Reduce-Reuse-Recycle” at pre-school.  She took it to heart and wanted to take home the paper towel from the public restroom.  Next challenge is her big sister, who claims to be an environmentalist, but takes 20-minute showers.

Here’s to hoping next year’s Earth Day will celebrate the passage of climate legislation and other real policy changes.