Statement of EDF

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Sharyn Stein, 202-572-3396 sstein@edf.org

Washington DC (March 31, 2010)— “Without comprehensive climate and energy legislation, the failed, narrow energy policies of the past will continue. We believe the President’s announcement demonstrates his continued commitment to work towards the bi-partisan majority that will be necessary to pass climate legislation in the Senate.

“The President has put forward his plans on offshore drilling after hearing from key Senators that it’s a necessary step to succeed in passing climate and energy legislation in the Senate.

“Now it’s time for the supporters of new drilling and an “all-of-the-above” approach to energy policy to step forward and support comprehensive legislation, including a limit on carbon pollution. And the President must provide the leadership and drive to make that happen.

“From an environmental prospective, we believe any exploration and drilling must be carried out with effective environmental safeguards, including protection of key coastal and ocean habitats. Explicit funding for repair of the damage caused by historic energy extraction and transportation infrastructure must be addressed as well.”

About Environmental Defense Fund, a leading national nonprofit organization which represents more than 700,000 members. Since 1967, Environmental Defense Fund has linked science, economics, law and innovative private-sector partnerships to create breakthrough solutions to the most serious environmental problems. www.edf.org