WHEREAS:

One of the greatest long-term threats to humanity and the natural world is global warming. Unless it is checked by bold action to limit air pollution, many inhabited areas of the United States and the world will be inundated by water due to the melting of Arctic and Antarctic ice. Because there would be rapid and drastic changes in weather, many species will not be able to adjust, and will become extinct-both on land and in the sea. Many rich agricultural lands would be turned into deserts due to rises in temperature, causing significant hunger around the world. Increased hot and tropical regions will be breeding grounds for diseases; and

WHEREAS:

Labor and environmentalists have joined with business, urban and faith groups in the APOLLO Alliance, a coalition working for good jobs and energy independence; and

WHEREAS:

The George W. Bush administration has minimized the dangers of global warming, and has refused to cooperate with other nations to combat it. Soon after taking office, President Bush abrogated the Global Warming Treaty that took years to negotiate among many nations, and set realistic goals for controlling worldwide air pollution. Even though the scientific evidence is overwhelming, and almost no climatologists now doubt that it is happening, and that it is a very serious threat, President Bush's response has been that we need more studies. He also advocates voluntary compliance with standards greatly reduced from those set by the treaty, while providing virtually no incentives, such as tax breaks for pollution controls in factories and industries, or tough and enforceable standards, such as greatly increased mileage and pollution limits for cars and trucks.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:

That AFSCME express its support for the international Global Warming Treaty, and for significant and effective measures to control air pollution within the United States; and

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED:

That AFSCME continue its support for the APOLLO alliance.

SUBMITTED BY:

David Rader and Delegate
Juan Martinez, President
AFSCME Local 843, Council 28
Washington