When Massachusetts
looks for environmental leadership, the name John Kerry immediately
arises. As an original organizer of Earth Day 1970 in Massachusetts,
and Chair of the National Earth Day 1990 board, John Kerry has long
recognized the vulnerability of the environment. Kerry has become
nationally and internationally known as an environmental hero for
his strong leadership, his stellar voting record and his continuing
efforts to keep the teeth in pollution legislation.
Over 30 years ago, I spoke at the Commonwealth's first Earth Day and
called for fundamental protections that became the Clean Air Act,
Clean Water Act, Safe Drinking Water Act, Endangered Species Act and
Superfund. When I look back on the many challenges we faced in 1970,
I know that we have made great strides. The proof of our progress
is all around us. Air pollution, water pollution and toxic emissions
have been reduced. Lead has been removed from gasoline. Boston Harbor
is recovering from decades of pollution. Acid rain across New England
has been reduced. Species once on the verge of extinction, even the
mighty bald eagle, have returned to strength. And through it all,
the American economy has grown to historic levels as technology, long-term
planning and commonsense have replaced environmentally destructive
practices. However, our work is not complete.
The environmental problems we face today are in some ways more
challenging than those we faced 30 years ago. While acid rain has
been reduced, it continues to poison lakes in the Northeast. Air
pollution from powerplants and cars contributes to asthma, cancer,
heart disease and other sickness. Mercury and other toxins are accumulating
in our waters, fish and other species—and ultimately threatening
public health. Ocean ecosystems are deteriorating because of coastal
runoff and over fishing. Incomparable habitats and species around
the world are threatened by short-sighted development. Each day
we are altering the Earth’s atmosphere in unprecedented and
irreversible ways with air pollution that contributes to global
warming.
While these challenges are great, I am not daunted. As we have
throughout America’s history, we must meet these environmental
challenges head on and resolve them. I believe as strongly today
as I did 30 years ago that the American economy can and will flourish
from thoughtful environmental protections. As long as I am in public
life, safeguarding the environment and protecting the public health
will remain two of my top priorities.
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