WASHINGTON, D.C. – In advance of the House of Representative’s vote, the following statement was issued by Janis Searles Jones, CEO of Ocean Conservancy, in support of the Climate Action Now Act (H.R. 9) today:

“Ocean Conservancy calls on Congress to pass the Climate Action Now Act (H.R. 9). We cannot ignore the impacts of greenhouse gas emissions on our ocean and our nation’s economy, security and way of life.

“The ocean has absorbed about 30% of all carbon dioxide emissions since the Industrial Revolution – life on this planet would be drastically warmer without this essential ocean function. Carbon dioxide emissions are higher now than at any time in human history. Shellfish growers in Washington State have suffered enormous oyster die-offs because of ocean acidification. Commercial fisheries on both coasts and in Alaska are grappling with migrating fish populations as the ocean gets warmer.

“We must take immediate action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to protect our ocean, coastal and indigenous communities, fisheries and local economies. The Climate Action Now Act is a path forward and will keep the United States committed to the Paris Agreement.

“We urge Congress to pass the Climate Action Now Act. Our ocean is essential for our nation’s well-being and provides numerous benefits to balance our climate, feed millions, provides jobs and keep local economies afloat. Let’s keep it that way.”

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Janis Searles Jones, CEO of Ocean Conservancy, is available for media enquiries upon request.

NOTES TO EDITOR:

• As part of the Paris Agreement, the United States committed to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions by 26-28% by the year 2025.

Ocean Conservancy is working to protect the ocean from today’s greatest global challenges. Together with our partners, we create science-based solutions for a healthy ocean and the wildlife and communities that depend on it. For more information, visit oceanconservancy.org, or follow us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.