Energy bill good for Florida

The facts are indisputable: Emissions of greenhouse gases from human use of fossil fuels are polluting the Earth's atmosphere, and the consequences for Florida are serious. We have much to lose and much to do when it comes to dealing with climate change, and it is in our best interest to face the problem head on.

That is why Audubon and many others are working to build support for passage of the strongest possible clean energy and climate legislation this year.

Congress took the first step when the House Energy and Commerce Committee passed the American Clean Energy and Security Act (HR 2454). The bill is expected to come to the full House for debate on Friday.

This bill expands renewable electricity and energy efficiency, reduces our greenhouse gas emissions and provides resources to transition to a clean energy economy and protect our wildlife and environment. These forward-thinking policies will stimulate new green jobs, jump start the U.S. economy, and set us on the road to independence from imported oil and dirty coal.

Why is it urgent that the nation deal with energy and climate change? The bill's title says much: Clean energy means security for Florida's economy and environment.

Our low-lying coastal areas are vulnerable to saltwater intruding into our estuaries and drinking water aquifers. Sea level rise threatens our beaches. And more extreme weather events, such as droughts and intense storms, can result in lost agricultural production and higher insurance rates.

Let the birds tell the story. A recent Audubon report, "Birds and Climate Change: Ecological Disruption in Motion," analyzed four decades of scientific data on bird wintering patterns in January and found that our flying friends are moving northward. Data on increasing temperatures over the past 40 years points to global warming as the likely culprit.

If the warning from songbirds is not enough, think about your pocketbook. Every kilowatt of energy saved is money in your pocket. Drivers of fuel efficient cars are less vulnerable to gas price hikes. People using energy-efficient appliances pay less than those doing things the old way. And renewable energy, such as solar power, harnesses free fuel from the sun, far from the control of unstable foreign governments.

This bill makes good economic sense. Wouldn't you rather invest in a Florida-based solar company than buy stock in a Detroit automaker? If you answered yes, this bill is for you. It would jump start a clean energy economy in which we produce our own power, employ our own people and make money on our investments.

So whether your next step is checking your insurance bill, stock portfolio, bank account or the sand on the beach, it is in your immediate and long-term interest to support HR 2454.