Number: 1985-22
WHEREAS, the need for a U.S./Canadian agreement on the issue of acid rain control has been expressed in U.S. reauthorization legislation (the Foreign Relations and the Department of State Authorization Acts, respectively) in 1978 and in 1983, and in a Memorandum of Intent between Canada and the U.S. signed August 5, 1980, as well as in official pronouncements made by officials of the two nations; and
WHEREAS, acid rain is a transboundary problem affecting both nations and their natural resources; and
WHEREAS, the Government of Canada has committed itself to a program reducing acid rain-causing sulfur dioxide (SO2) emissions in the seven eastern provinces by 50% by 1994; and
WHEREAS, there were indications from the White House on March 13, 1985, that the United States has offered to the Canadian Government a proposal to conduct a “joint effort” to examine the acid rain problem for at least one more year before considering remedial measures; and
WHEREAS, the Canadian Government has indicated its receptiveness to such a joint study proposal; and
WHEREAS, overwhelming evidence is at hand as to the nature and extent of the acid rain problem, as well as practical and workable approaches to solutions; and
WHEREAS, President Ronald Reagan and Prime Minister Brian Mulroney are to meet in Quebec City, Canada, on March 17 and 18, 1985, at which time the question of “joint effort” is to be discussed.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the National Wildlife Federation, at annual meeting assembled March 14-17, 1985, in Arlington, Virginia, and in association with the Canadian Wildlife Federation, hereby declare their dissatisfaction with the joint study effort under consideration by the two countries, and respectfully urge the President and Prime Minister to reconsider their proposed study program in favor of a plan which will result in an overall 50% reduction of pollutants that result in acid precipitation in both nations.