Issues
PROTECTING THE ENVIRONMENT:
As Americans, we have the right to breathe unpolluted air, drink safe water, eat uncontaminated food, live in clean communities and enjoy our natural treasures. Today, approximately 45% of our nation's waterways do not meet the "drinkable, swimmable, fishable" standard set out by the Clean Water Act 30 years ago.
In the 21st Century, we can have progress without pollution - we can grow our economy while protecting our natural resources. But we need to look to the future and invest in innovation.
Throughout my career, I have fought to clean up toxic waste sites, to keep our air and water clean, and to protect the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge and other pristine wilderness areas. Recently, the non-partisan League of Conservation Voters called me an "environmental champion," a distinction I'm very proud of.
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Over the years, I have made protecting the welfare of our wildlife and aquatic restoration a priority. I introduced legislation to require the protection of endangered right whales from injury and death due to ship strikes. This legislation regulates the speed of vessels to reduce the incidences of collision with North Atlantic right whales and urges the administration to move forward in protecting this endangered whale. I also recently introduced a resolution to persuade the International Whaling Commission to place stricter regulations on commercial whaling.
I also have fought to secure federal protections for the iconic polar bear, which is at risk of extinction from large-scale melting of the sea ice that makes up its habitat. Senator Snowe and I introduced the Polar Bear Protection Act, which would prohibit trophy hunters from bringing polar bear carcasses into the US from Canada. I have also fought to put the polar bear on the Endangered Species List and give them a fighting chance at survival.
I believe in setting a new standard of environmental excellence for America. I will continue to honor and protect our national treasures and pay tribute to our natural wonders, while renewing our nation's promise of clean air, clean water and a bountiful landscape for all. I recognize that we owe it to our families, our communities, and our planet to defend our environmental values and protect our environmental rights.
Together we can improve the environment in backyards and communities across America. I believe we can create cleaner, greener communities by revitalizing contaminated industrial sites, getting toxins out of communities, guaranteeing our children access to clean, safe parks, and taking on traffic congestion and sprawl.
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