Obama outlines four-point 'green agenda'

WASHINGTON, Jan. 26 (UPI) -- A so-called green agenda, including energy-efficient vehicles and public buildings is in executive orders U.S. President Obama discussed before signing Monday.

"At a time of such great challenge for America, no single issue is as fundamental to our future as energy," Obama said. "America's dependence on oil is one of the most serious threats that our nation has faced" because it "bankrolls dictators" while putting U.S. consumers "at the mercy of shifting gas prices."

Obama called for "bold action" to create a new American energy economy that that would create "millions of jobs for our people."

His American Recovery and Reinvestment Plan, an $825 billion economic stimulus plan before Congress, includes energy-related jobs, invest in energy transmission, and make federal buildings and homes more energy efficient.

New vehicle fuel-efficiency standards will begin for model year 2011, Obama said, adding the rule change would be a "down payment on a broader and sustained effort to reduce our dependence on foreign oil."

Obama said he is directing the Environmental Protection Agency to review the denial of the California waiver regarding greenhouse gas emissions.

"(The) federal government must work with, not against, states to reduce greenhouse gas emissions," he said.

"Finally, we will make it clear to the world that America is ready to lead. To protect our climate and our collective security, we must call together a truly global coalition. I've made it clear that we will act, but so too must the world."