We just wanted to get our oar in the (clean) water here, so to speak, on this auspicious day, Earth Day.

This Earth Day we have much to celebrate. The air is getting cleaner, the water is getting cleaner -- according to the EPA, but not always well-known among the general population.

Says the Wall Street Journal in it's lead editorial today entitled, "Breathe Easier":

"Since 1970, carbon monoxide emissions in the U.S. are down 55%, according to the [EPA]. Particulate emissions are down nearly 80% and sulfur dioxide emissions have been reduced by half.Lead emissions have declined by more than 98%. All of this has been accomplished despite a doubling of the number of cars on the road and a near-tripling of the number of miles driven, according to Steven Hayward of the Pacific Research Institute."

This is happening because of the efforts of manufacturers coast to coast. We lead the way in finding cleaner ways to make the many things we make -- and that you use -- every day. Also, manufacturers lead the way in energy efficiency, inventing and using the newest and best technology. It all serves to make the planet cleaner for every one of us.

And so we say Happy Earth Day, and take this opportunity to point out that there'd be precious little to celebrate without the work, the brains, and the innovation of America's manufacturers.

Posted by Pat Cleary at April 22, 2006 03:39 PM

Earth Day 2006 PRI in the News By: Pat Cleary 4.22.2006