North Carolina Governor Josh Stein, along with other state officials, took part in Earth Day celebrations at Eno River State Park in Durham, highlighting the significance of the state's natural resources and the need for conservation. As reported by the Governor's Office, Stein was accompanied by Secretary Pam Cashwell of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) and Secretary Reid Wilson of the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), as they toured the park and engaged with its rangers.
Speaking to the importance of the state's diverse landscapes, Governor Stein said, "From the Blue Ridge Mountains to the barrier islands and everywhere in between, like Eno River State Park, North Carolina's natural beauty enriches our quality of life and attracts millions of visitors each year." These comments, which obtained by the Governor's Office, underscore not only the aesthetic and cultural value of these spaces but also their economic impact. For the rangers working at Eno River State Park, the celebration was as much about Earth Day as their everyday dedication to the park's upkeep and preservation.
NC's DNCR Secretary Pamela B. Cashwell remarked on the role of state parks in conservation efforts. "Earth Day is a chance for us to celebrate North Carolina’s 41 state parks and recreational areas, and the team that keeps them beautiful for the millions of visitors each year," Cashwell told the Governor's Office. She continued by stating that Earth Day is a call to action for maintaining the state's parks and trails. Similarly, DEQ Secretary Reid Wilson acknowledged the efforts of North Carolina's community on this day, emphasizing the collective work needed to sustain a healthy environment. "I admire the people across North Carolina who are spending Earth Day working and volunteering within their communities to build a healthier environment," Wilson said, as he highlighted the importance of community engagement in environmental work.
In his past role as Attorney General, Stein demonstrated an enduring commitment to environmental protection, holding polluters accountable and securing a $1.1 billion settlement for coal ash cleanup. This not only resulted in improved water quality but also energy savings for North Carolinians, according to the Governor's Office statement. Governor Stein's current aim is to provide access to clean air and water to all North Carolinians, maintain the state's natural beauty, and continue to lead in the clean energy economy now as governor. With policies rooted in conservation and sustainability, Stein's leadership appears to reinforce the message of Earth Day: a collaborative effort towards a more resilient planet.
