 "I am honored by the confidence and faith President Obama and the Senate have reposed in me to lead the EPA in confronting the environmental challenges currently before us. As Administrator, I will ensure EPA's efforts to address the environmental crises of today are rooted in three fundamental values: science-based policies and programs, adherence to the rule of law, and overwhelming transparency. By keeping faith with these values and unleashing innovative, forward-thinking approaches - we can further protect neighborhoods and communities throughout the country."
Statement by Administrator-designate Lisa P. Jackson
Twenty years of experience as an environmental regulator and a reputation as a consensus builder. Ms. Jackson, who is a chemical engineer, brought a more policy-driven approach to New Jersey's historically politicized Department of Environmental Protection as its commissioner. During her 33 months in that job, the state began conducting compliance sweeps to crack down on polluters in environmentally ravaged sections of Camden and Paterson, ended its controversial bear hunt and unveiled a plan to reduce carbon emissions 20 percent by 2020 and 80 percent by 2050.
In accepting this position she spoke of being raised in New Orleans and the struggles her Mom has gone through while still living there.
"I was raised in New Orleans. My mother, like so many others, lost all she had in Hurricane Katrina. Her home lay vulnerable because of its design, but also because of the failure of the government-built levees that were supposed to protect her. The natural defenses of the marshes and wetlands south of New Orleans have been destabilized by siltation and cut by oil and gas lines. The government agency that was supposed to respond to the disaster was inept and incapable. In the face of that tragedy, I almost left public service. But I stayed because I believe we can and must do better for my mother and for all Americans.
...my mother has suffered from environmental negligence. But none of them are victims. They are survivors. They are Americans. They are my conscience."
Sounds like she's going to be strong and steadfast in this position.Labels: epa, epa administrator, lisa jackson |
