Hello Everyone,
Evelyn here,
Below is a message from the honorable governor of the state of Florida, Charlie Crist on the subject of Global warning and the upcoming two-day summit here in Florida. Of those national dignitaries to be present at the conference is California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, Bobby Kennedy Jr., Teddy Roosevelt IV and the leading international scientists. As Florida’s coastlines are bordered by two oceans, the state is at great risk of continuous damage of global climate change.
Now, more from Governor Crist and New From The Capital (NFTC).
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July 12, 2007
Dear Friends,
I am honored that so many outstanding scientists and leaders with expertise in addressing global climate change are joining us for the climate change summit. More than 600 participants and 200 members of the media will participate in the two-day conference.
Our purpose during these two days is to hear from experts how we in Florida can address the causes and effects of climate change. Global climate change is one of the most important issues we face this century, and we must take action. We must make every effort to do what is right – for our environment, for our economy and for future generations. We have a responsibility to be good stewards of Florida’s natural resources and beautiful surroundings.
I am grateful that several international leaders are joining us for this important discussion. We are honored to hear from Minister Matthias Machnig of Germany and Dr. John Ashton of the United Kingdom. They each have many years of experience in addressing the challenges of global climate change.
Also joining us will be world-renowned speakers California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, Robert Kennedy Jr., Theodore Roosevelt IV, and Vinod Khosla. In addition, expert panelists and scientists share their expertise on effective ways to reduce greenhouse gases. We will learn how we can use more clean and renewable energy and increase our energy efficiency and conservation efforts.
Florida’s weather, beaches and fishing attract 85 million visitors each year, making tourism Florida’s number-one industry. The natural beauty that draws people to Florida is vulnerable to the impact of the people drawn to it. Florida is one of the fastest growing states, with almost 1,000 new residents arriving daily. As the fourth most populous state, Florida ranks third in energy consumption, with 70 percent of Florida’s electricity being generated by fossil fuels.
Florida is uniquely vulnerable to the impact of climate change. Our state is bordered by bodies of water and has thousands of miles of rivers, streams and waterways. Our waters define our state’s identity, and global climate change can threaten that identity.”
Scientists indicate that global climate change can threaten Florida’s economy. South and Southwest Florida are currently experiencing long-term drought conditions, which threaten our agriculture industry. Violent weather patterns may be connected to climate change. Rising sea levels can jeopardize Florida’s water supply.
Florida can become a leader in renewable and alternative energies such as ethanol and biofuels, solar and wind energy. Florida has great potential to produce ethanol because of a year-long growing season. Florida’s sugar cane and citrus industries can play an important role in ethanol production.
To help educate our citizens, businesses and policy makers about energy conservation, I am happy to announce new volunteer initiative. Volunteer Florida will engage volunteers of all ages in projects to restore and protect Florida’s natural environment.
I believe we can make a difference in Florida’s future by taking action to be more energy efficient and use more renewable energies. I hope you will joinme in this effort.
May God continue to bless the great state of Florida,
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Evelyn out.
