During this challenging time in our nation's economy, the need to conserve energy and create new jobs is immediate. As we look for ways to accomplish these goals, we should consider the benefits of using energy-efficient mechanical insulation.

In fact, a modest increase in the use of energy efficient mechanical insulation would allow the United States to quickly generate significant energy demand reductions in the commercial and industrial sectors, create tens of thousands of green jobs and help cut the nation's greenhouse gas emissions.

The National Insulation Association recently estimated a huge energy efficiency opportunity for the industrial and commercial sectors at $4.8 billion in energy savings, a reduction of 43 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions and 89,000 new jobs.

The carbon dioxide reduction alone would be the equivalent of shutting down nine coal plants every year.

I am thankful that our congresswoman, Debbie Halvorson, with her amendment to the Climate and Energy Bill, understands the benefits mechanical insulation can have on our economy and environment. Thank you.

Jeff LaBorence

Odell