Political Quotes

“I rise today to introduce the bipartisan Global Conservation Act of 2010 with my colleague and fellow advocate on international conservation issues, Senator Sam Brownback of Kansas. As our world grows increasingly intertwined through commerce, communication, and culture, we must also work together to protect the earth's natural resources through conservation. This bill acknowledges the important role our natural resources play in global economics, global health, and global security, and takes steps to strengthen the United States' involvement and productivity in conservation on a global scale. As described in the legislation being introduced today, competing needs around the world are taxing natural resources that are vital to human survival. For example, 500 million people in developing countries depend on fresh water from natural areas that are under threat of degradation, and two billion people depend on rapidly diminishing fish stocks for a significant source of their daily protein. In contrast, wild species provide more than $300 billion in protection and benefits to world agriculture, including natural pest control and the pollination of two thirds of the crop species that feed the world. Forests prevent catastrophic flooding and severe drought, and coral reefs and mangroves reduce the impact of large storms on coastal populations, saving $9 billion in damages each year and reducing outlays for disaster assistance.…”