We Need a Vigorous Response to Puerto Rico’s Environmental Crisis
Statement of EDF President Fred Krupp – October 3, 2017
“Over the weekend, the Department of Defense reported that most people in Puerto Rico do not have access to clean drinking water – a sharp increase from what was reported just a few days ago. This public health emergency demands the most vigorous possible response. These Americans deserve the same focus and attention as our fellow citizens in Texas and Florida.
“As we saw after Hurricanes Harvey and Irma, these powerful storms leave a dangerous aftermath. In addition to the lack of clean water, there is a massive problem with untreated sewage as many treatment plants are down. A swift response from EPA and other federal agencies is essential.
“We are once again seeing the devastation from storms made stronger by climate change. In each crisis, we are faced with a question of who we are, as a nation. America must always protect its citizens regardless of where they live. That means effective action to help those in need, and a bold strategy to reduce climate pollution. Leaders who fail on either count will have abdicated their responsibility to us all.”
- Fred Krupp, president of Environmental Defense Fund
With more than 3 million members, Environmental Defense Fund creates transformational solutions to the most serious environmental problems. To do so, EDF links science, economics, law, and innovative private-sector partnerships to turn solutions into action. edf.org
Media Contact
Latest press releases
-
Short-sighted Duke Energy Plan Recognizes Benefits of Solar and Battery Storage While Still Extending Outdated, Expensive Coal in North Carolina
October 1, 2025 -
Groups Challenge the Trump Administration’s Illegal Emergency Order for Eddystone Plant in Court
September 29, 2025 -
Trump Administration’s Subsidies for Costly Coal Saddle Families with High Bills, More Pollution
September 29, 2025 -
New York State’s $1 Billion Climate Investment Takes Critical Step Forward
September 25, 2025 -
Trump EPA Political Appointees Scrambled to Offer Free Pass to Pollute
September 25, 2025 -
New Map Highlights NOAA’s Nationwide Benefits Amid Budget Cut Threats
September 25, 2025