We Need a Vigorous Response to Puerto Rico’s Environmental Crisis

“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