Castor Left Optimistic After Global Climate Summit

As the former Chair of the Select Committee on the Climate Crisis, Representative Kathy Castor (D-FL) has released a statement after the conclusion of the 28^th Conference of Parties (COP28).

The Florida congresswoman was optimistic following efforts from the Biden administration and America’s global partners to push for cleaner, green energy.

“It is crucial that the world move quickly to cleaner, cheaper energy to reduce pollution and help people avoid the worst impacts of the climate crisis,” said Rep. Castor. “As I return from the COP28 climate conference, I am buoyed by pledges to triple renewable energy, double energy efficiency and boost the ability of communities to deal with extreme heat and weather events.”

Rep. Castor continued, “I witnessed America’s leadership in action as Biden Administration representatives rallied countries across the globe to go farther and faster on clean energy. Personally, I conveyed a sense of urgency to act following the hottest summer on record in Florida and as neighbors grapple with the escalating costs of air conditioning and property insurance.”

One of her colleagues Representative Kevin Mullin (D-CA) mentioned that the U.S. must continue its efforts to “do our part.”

“The Paris Climate Agreement brought 195 governments together to take action on global warming. 9 yrs later, making progress towards net-zero emissions has never been more pressing. The US must continue to demonstrate leadership at #COP28 & do our part to fight climate change,” said Rep. Mullins.

Despite the hopefulness of the legislators, Rep. Castor concluded her statement by saying that oil and gas corporations cannot “divert the world” from a cleaner environment.

“While I left feeling hopeful, I also saw fossil fuel lobbyists and OPEC nations flex their muscles to slow progress. We cannot allow oil and gas corporations to divert the world from a safer and healthier future,” said Castor. “Leaders across government, the private sector, and the activist community — especially young people — are energized and doing amazing work to help us secure a livable planet. The work is far from over, especially in Congress. I look forward to advancing policies that expand lower-cost clean energy, cut pollution, protect our communities and improve our health.”

The Florida congresswoman represents the 14 District.