Church leaders urge scrutiny of Bush energy policy
Date: 22-May-01
Country: USA
In a signed letter to President George W. Bush, Congress and the general public, Jewish and Christian members of the National Council of Churches said the moral and religious questions surrounding the Bush plan require deep thinking.
"Far more than rolling blackouts and gasoline price increases are at stake: the future of God's creation on earth; the nature and durability of our economy; our public health and public lands; the environment and quality of life we bequeath our children and grandchildren," the letter said.
Bush last week unveiled 105 proposals to ignite domestic oil, natural gas, nuclear and coal production, including controversial plans to open Alaska's Arctic National Wildlife Refuge to drilling, pending congressional approval.
Bush said the electricity shortages in California and sharply higher gasoline pump prices were only a sign of things to come unless the country took steps to build more power plants, find more reserves and cut back inefficient practices.
The religious leaders, who stressed they are not scientists or policymakers, used Bible messages to illustrate the need to preserve the planet's natural wonders for future generations, indirectly criticizing the White House proposals.
"Humankind has a fundamental choice of priorities for its future," the religious leaders said.
"By depleting energy sources, causing global warming, fouling the air with pollution, and poisoning the land with radioactive waste, a policy of increased reliance on fossil fuels and nuclear power jeopardizes health and well-being for life on Earth."
The other choice could change that dire future, they said, pointing out the promise of clean fuel technology, renewable energy, greater vehicle efficiency and safer power plants.
