Epa Rejection Of California Vehicle Emission Standards An Environmental Setback
"While an increasing number of states are tackling the issue of global warming head-on, the EPA has chosen to keep its head in the sand," said Glenn Olson, executive director of ³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ California. "While I expect that we will ultimately succeed in implementing these greenhouse gas emissions standards, this time spinning our wheels only means greater negative impacts for California's birds, wildlife and important habitat."
Ongoing research from ³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ and ³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ California shows that global warming is having a tremendous impact on birds and habitat in California and beyond. This research is showing that bird populations are declining and that critical habitat is disappearing due to global climate change. "The risks to the environment of doing nothing are very real," Olson said.
Olson applauded his state's dedicated pursuit of strict emission standards in the face of opposition from the Bush Administration. He expressed support for the Governor's stated intention to appeal the EPA's decision in court.
"We are greatly appreciative of Gov. Schwarzenegger's leadership on global warming, and we're proud that this leadership has made California a model not only for the rest of the country, but for the world as well," said Olson. "³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ California will be pleased to work with the Governor's office in support of its appeal."
³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ California is dedicated to protecting birds and other wildlife and the habitat that supports them. With more than 50,000 members in California and an affiliated 48 local ³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ chapters, ³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ California is a field program of ³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ. This relationship links ³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ California to a national network of community-based nature centers and chapters, scientific and educational programs, and advocacy on behalf of areas sustaining important bird populations, engaging millions of people of all ages and backgrounds in conservation.