Statement on New IPCC Report

FOR IMMEDIATE USE

CONTACT: Charlie Miller, 202-572-3364 or 410-599-3494

The latest report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) adds to the avalanche of scientific evidence that the planet is warming and humans are largely responsible – something almost no serious climate scientist disputes any longer. The IPCC report is one more warning that we need to act quickly to cut our greenhouse gas emissions.

The best and most cost-effective way to make these cuts is a cap-and-trade system, like the one enacted in 1990 that so successfully reduced acid rain pollution. This is the approach now endorsed by many of America’s leading companies, including General Electric, DuPont, and Caterpillar.

Until Congress acts, we are putting our future, and our children’s future in jeopardy. Those hesitating on quick, bold action must now explain why the world’s leading scientists are wrong about the science, and many of America’s leading companies are wrong about the economics.

-Dr. Bill Chameides, Chief Scientist, Environmental Defense