Each week the National Journal's Energy and Environment blog poses a question and invites a select group of authorities to respond. The question for the week asked about a Gallup Poll showing that Americans are less concerned about the environment than at any time in the past 20 years.

National Journal asked, why? And what does the lack of concern portend for climate legislation?

API's President and CEO Jack Gerard posted a response that made two key points:

• Americans are focused on jobs and the economy; and

• It's likely that many Americans are aware that the environment has improved markedly during the past several years.

According to a report published by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the levels of six common air pollutants have fallen 41 percent on average since 1990, despite the fact that the U.S. population and energy usage has increased.

Also, the oil and natural gas industry has made substantial investments in greenhouse gas mitigation technologies and in the creation of cleaner-burning fuels which will continue to improve the environment in coming years.

As Jack explains:

"Clearly, the industry's hard work and investments are making a difference. Therefore, one of the first steps in addressing the climate issue should be to recognize those accomplishments and to consider the importance of promoting job creation and economic growth."

For more information, read the full text of Jack's response on the National Journal blog.