State government has come a long way in helping Pennsylvania become an environmentally friendly state. Many counties, municipalities and businesses receive state-funded grants forrecycling, sewage enforcement, watershed projects, brownfields and the use of alternative fuels. As chairman of the House Environmental Resources and Energy Committee and a member of the Pennsylvania delegation to the Chesapeake Bay Commission, I am committed to protecting and preserving our environment and natural resources. We have made great strides over the years in regard to the environment, but there is still much to be done, and it is an ever-increasing battle to combine our lifestyles with smart and efficient care of the earth. One way that every citizen can help is by recycling.
Recycling preserves the environment, reduces energy consumption, and protects our natural resources.
Taking the time to separate glass, cans and newspaper is making a big difference, a difference our children and grandchildren will benefit from in future years. Companies and business organizations are also making a commitment to protecting the environment. The Hardwood Lumber Manufacturers Association of Pennsylvania is an excellent example of an organization that is dedicated to doing what it can to contribute to the preservation of the earth. The timber and forest products industry in Pennsylvania harvests enough timber each year to circle the globe more than seven times. However, timber harvesting today has the best record for non-point source water pollution of waterways of any land use in the state.