WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Congressman Scott Peters (CA-52) released the following statement in support of the agreement reached by 196 nations at the COP 21 Paris Climate Summit:

“The Paris Climate Change Agreement is a historic and important step to reduce emissions and limit the damage to our climate.  I applaud the work of Secretary Kerry, U.S. Special Envoy for Climate Change Todd Sterns, and all of the private sector and government leaders from around the world who came together to make this happen.

“The Paris Agreement comes to the same conclusion that we did in San Diego a long time ago: we do not have to choose between a clean environment and a prosperous economy. As much as reducing emissions is a challenge, it is also an opportunity. This agreement is a clear signal that the transition to a clean energy economy is happening now.

“As Chairman of the House Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition’s Climate Task Force, I defended efforts to expand the United States’ climate leadership leading up to the Paris talks, and will work to ensure we keep our commitments as part of this agreement.

“Earlier this year I led the effort in Congress to support the Green Climate Fund to assist developing countries in adapting to and mitigating climate change, and am glad to see that it will play a central role in ensuring the success of the Paris Agreement.

“This agreement also follows the November breakthrough in Dubai to reduce the disproportionate role superpollutants like hydrofluorocarbons play in damaging our climate. Tackling this low hanging fruit can quickly mitigate the worst effects of climate change, and I have worked in Congress to ensure U.S. leadership in reducing superpollutant emissions by introducing the SUPER Act.

“San Diego’s innovation has left its mark on this agreement, and will be crucial in ensuring that America keeps its commitments. Qualcomm, the University of California San Diego, and San Diego State University took pledges to curb emissions and invest in energy efficiency and clean energy. The investment in research and development of clean technologies will also see San Diego’s world-class clean tech sector continue to grow and create jobs across our region.”

Because of his leadership on climate and energy issues in Congress, Congressman Peters was selected to be part of the Congressional Delegation to attend the Paris Climate Talks. The delegation was cancelled because of unanticipated votes scheduled for last Friday. Earlier this year, he led a House Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition meeting with Todd Sterns, U.S. Special Envoy for Climate Change.

Congressman Peters is the sponsor of the Department of Defense Energy Security Act, a vocal proponent of using the Social Cost of Carbon in the rulemaking process, and active member of the Safe Climate Caucus.

Congressman Peters has also unveiled his own plan to curb climate change, which includes supporting innovative research and initiatives in San Diego, as well as legislative proposals to make Congress a leader on reducing emissions and mitigating climate change.