By Robert H. Gayle Jr. / L’Observateur / November 30, 1998

DEAR EDITOR: On behalf of The Chamber/New Orleans and the River Region, and its more than 2,700 member companies, I would like to applaud the recent stand of Rep. Bob Livingston on the Kyoto Protocol on Climate Change.While the reduction of so-called “greenhouse gases” is a worthwhile endeavor, there is much debate in scientific circles about the existence of the “greenhouse effect.” It is not an established fact that anythingcreated by man is causing temperatures around the planet to rise. There ismuch research still to be done.

Moreover, the Kyoto Protocol exacts a toll on the United States that is simply unfair. Businesses and consumers across the nation – includingLouisiana – would shoulder enormous costs to reduce emissions under provisions of this agreement. Meanwhile, competitors in 130 of theworld’s approximately 170 nations would be exempt.

Thus, the Kyoto Protocol would seem to be as much about stymieing the competitiveness of the United States as in preserving atmospheric quality.

As Rep. Livingston stated, the Kyoto Protocol is a terrible deal for theUnited States and Louisiana. The United States must not adopt its termsuntil an equitable method is found that applies to all signatory countries and does not require such huge sacrifices for Louisiana.

Robert H. Gayle Jr.President and CEO- The Chamber New Orleans

Copyright © 1998, Wick Communications, Inc.

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