Nature Conservancy Statement by Eric Haxthausen, Director of U.S. Climate Policy

ARLINGTON, VA — January 26, 2009 — "The Nature Conservancy is heartened by President Obama's statement today and his direction to the Department of Transportation to complete fuel economy standards and to EPA to immediately review its stance on California's request for a waiver to proceed with its own greenhouse gas standards for automobiles. Meaningful reductions in greenhouse gas emissions will require a suite of integrated solutions that call on every sector of society from energy and transportation to finance and construction. The President's announcement today is a helpful and positive step for toward improving efficiency in the transportation sector.

"We are especially pleased with the President's commitment to make clear to the world that America is ready to lead, and to build a global coalition. American leadership in this arena is sorely needed and can prove the catalyst to the global action that will be essential to solve the pressing challenge posed by climate change.

"We are also encouraged by Secretary of State Clinton's appointment today of Todd Stern as Special Envoy for Climate Change. Mr. Stern provides important leadership experience on climate change, and will help ensure that the United States assumes the leadership position on international climate policy that President Obama has signaled and the world needs. Secretary Clinton’s speedy appointment reflects the urgent attention that will be needed to this issue in U.S. foreign policy.

"Taken together with his earlier commitments to enact a cap-and-trade program to control greenhouse gas emissions in the U.S., the President's statement today sets the stage for the strong action scientists are telling us is needed to forestall the worst impacts of climate change.

"The Nature Conservancy applauds President Obama for moving swiftly to engage this critical issue."

The Nature Conservancy is a leading conservation organization working around the world to protect ecologically important lands and waters for nature and people. The Conservancy and its more than 1 million members have protected nearly 120 million acres worldwide. Visit The Nature Conservancy on the Web at www.nature.org.