On this day around the world people join in solidarity to celebrate Earth Day. Earth Day is a 35-year-old tradition that provides a perfect opportunity for people around the world to express their commitment in protecting our planet, children and future.

Democrats are true advocates for protecting the environment. Democrats are committed to fostering a health economy and a healthy environment by promoting new technologies that create good jobs and improve our world. Democrats reject the position of Republicans that a choice has to be made between a health economy and a healthy environment. Democrats know that a cleaner environment means a stronger economy.

The future of our environment is at stake under the failed leadership of the Republican Party. For this year's Earth Day we call on all Democrats to remember the importance that our environment plays in every aspect of our lives. Further, we need Democrats to share their passion for protecting the environment with family, friends and neighbors. Today is a perfect day to highlight the fact that Democrats care about the planet, the health of our children and ensuring that the future is bright and clean.

Talking Points for Earth Day:

*Denver, Colorado is the 35th worst city in the country for air quality. Democrats must do a better job locally to develop and implement effective clean air standards.

*Democrats must support urban parks in our communities. Urban parks provide a range of benefits from air and water purification to building a stronger sense of community.

*Democrats must work harder to protect our children from the asthma. Asthma now ranks as one of the most common diseases in children. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over 4.4 million children are affected by asthma in our country.

* Democrats know that we can make a difference in our environment by reducing, reusing, and recycling at home and in our communities. You can reduce by conserving energy usage in your home by turning off lights when they are not needed. You can reuse by buying products that are made from recyclable goods. You can recycle by participating in recycling programs in your town.

*Democrats support enjoying the environment while respecting the environment. Here in Colorado we have beautiful mountains, plains and lakes. We must work to keep them clean and protect them from development projects that harm their natural beauty and integrity.

*Democrats support energy policy that looks into alternative fuel sources that will produce a cleaner environment and a country that is less dependent on foreign oil.

*Democrats support efforts to reduce the amount of toxins in our air, soil, water and food.