Number: 1992-08
WHEREAS, the Administration has consistently failed to develop and implement a national energy policy based upon the efficient use of energy and the development of safe and renewable sources of energy and stymied all attempts to adopt such an energy policy; and
WHEREAS, under the guise of national security and absent the adoption of a credible energy policy, the Administration and others in the private and public sectors have proposed to exploit oil and gas resources in environmentally sensitive areas, such as the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, the Outer Continental Shelf and the Rocky Mountain Overthrust Belt; and
WHEREAS, the continued reliance on the combustion of fossil fuels is a primary cause of global warming, acid rain and the emission of harmful pollutants into the atmosphere; and
WHEREAS, the continuation of subsidized rates for hydroelectric power generated at federal dams has undercut energy conservation efforts and threatens riparian and recreational resources; and
WHEREAS, the development of environmentally safe alternative fuels could reduce reliance on foreign and domestic oil, provide additional market opportunities for U.S. farmers and producers and contribute to our nation’s energy security; and
WHEREAS, improving the energy efficiency of our residential and commercial buildings, encouraging the use of efficient modes of transport, and raising gas mileage standards for automobiles and light duty trucks will mean substantial energy savings, including a marked reduction in our use of domestic and imported oil, as well as significant pollution reduction; and
WHEREAS, a growing number of states are successfully employing least-cost planning methods for electric and gas utilities, obviating the need for new power plant construction and resulting in savings for energy consumers;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the National Wildlife Federation in annual meeting assembled March 19-22, 1992 in Portland, Oregon, urges the Administration and Congress to formulate a national energy policy based on energy efficiency and renewable energy sources that is designed to reduce our dependence on domestic and imported oil, reduce harmful emissions, and to provide a sustainable future for generations to come; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the National Wildlife Federation supports a substantial increase in corporate average fuel economy standards for all automobile and light duty truck fleets sold in the U.S.; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the National Wildlife Federation asks all citizens to be mindful of their use of energy, and to take steps to use energy wisely and efficiently.