Kerry: Nature, Business Can Co-Exist | LA Times

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Kerry: Nature, Business Can Co-Exist

By James Rainey, Times Staff Writer

TAMPA, Fla. — Saying he would not succumb to "the same tired old arguments" that environmentalism and commerce cannot coexist, Democratic presidential candidate John F. Kerry said today he would embark on a new era of protections for the air, water and earth while promoting business and industry.

Standing beside a haven for manatees and herons along Tampa Bay, Kerry told an audience of about 150 that President Bush has reversed three decades of environmental gains, while slinging eco-friendly slogans that "would make George Orwell rise up in fear."

Kerry said he would not only reinstate open space preserves and other Clinton administration initiatives scotched by the Republican incumbent, he would also embark on a series of improvements centered in four areas: improving the quality and testing of public waters; reducing mercury and other harmful emissions from power plants; cutting polluted runoff from farms, factories and residential neighborhoods; and increasing spending to form coastal preserves.

The Kerry campaign timed today's event to coincide with the celebration of Earth Day.

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