Gov. Gregoire�s Earth Day statement

For Immediate Release: April 22, 2009

OLYMPIA � Gov. Chris Gregoire today released the following statement on Earth Day:

�On this Earth Day, I want to remind Washingtonians that when it comes to the environment, inaction is not an option.

�As a state and nation, we must take steps to reduce climate-changing greenhouse gas pollution, promote energy independence and strengthen our competitiveness in the global race for a clean-energy economy. Taking action will benefit our environment while creating thousands of green-collar jobs to benefit our economy.

�Today on Earth Day, I will sign legislation that permits the Department of Natural Resources to develop and implement forest biomass energy demonstration projects. This bill signals our determination to make Washington a leader in green technology and green jobs for the 21st century. These projects have the potential of attracting new technologies, and demonstrate the viability of creating renewable energy from our forests.

�It is time to move more quickly to a future of green-collar jobs and a cleaner, safer environment. Together we can achieve this goal if we choose to make every day Earth Day.�