Questions to the Presidential Candidates1 | 2 | 3 | Next Question >>

As responsible stewards of our National Park System, we are called to protect our natural treasures -- the land, water and air -- for the benefit of this and future generations.

With regard to air pollution, as president, I will ensure that the Clean Air Act is vigorously enforced. Where air pollution problems persist that degrade the park or visitor experience, my administration will work with all stakeholders-the conservation community, parks visitors, the public, and emitters - to establish agreements and processes to clean up the pollution in a manner that fulfills our vital stewardship responsibilities to our crown jewels and surrounding communities.

With regard to global warming, I view this issue as one of the most important problems facing the next President. I support a national greenhouse gas "cap and trade" system. This market-based system will reduce the emission of greenhouse gases to environmentally sustainable levels in a manner that will spur the innovation of a cleaner and more reliable energy mix. "Cap and trade" will also provide a brighter future for our country, both environmentally and economically.

As president, I will restore the force of the Clean Air Act. I will fight for continued reductions in smog and soot, and continue my leadership in combating toxins that contribute to air pollution. Unlike President Bush, I will listen to my scientific advisers on air quality standards. And I will reverse the Bush administration's attempts to chip away at our nation's clean air standards and the integrity of our national parks. I will also protect roadless areas in our national lands.

 

Additionally, I will take bold steps to combat global climate change.  I will set a hard cap on carbon emissions -- an 80 percent reduction by 2050. I will also empower my EPA and the National Parks Service to proactively identify how global climate change is affecting our national resources and local ecosystems so that we can develop comprehensive plans to mitigate serious damage to these precious resources.