Clinton touched on a series of issues impacting the world, including the environment. One way that retail developers can help improve conditions is by constructing environmentally friendly developments, he says.

One feature that may define shopping centers of the future is an area where people will be able to recharge their electric cars. Landlords can also make sure that their projects are close to other alternative fuel sources, Clinton said.

If something isn't done to change the effects that emissions have on the atmosphere, dire events could occur, he said. Global warming may melt ice caps, leading to a larger ocean. In 50 years, Clinton predicted, 50 feet of Manhattan could be under water and many East-Coast cities might be flooded.

Clinton also touched on the immigration debate going on in the capital, saying that the problem will not likely go away any time soon. "It's not like we can get rid of the Rio Grande and pretend that Mexico's not there," he commented.

Additionally, Clinton applauded the ICSC's donation of $1 million to the Red Cross for disaster relief for both Hurricane Katrina and the tsunami that hit Southeast Asia in late 2004. He also says that Internet donations have made it easier for citizens to donate to relief efforts around the world. "They can change the world in ways that were never possible before," he noted.

ICSC's Spring Convention ends on Thursday. About 42,000 people are expected to attend this year, including 1,000 exhibitors in the event's Leasing Mall and Trade Exposition. ICSC currently has 61,000 members across the globe, up 7,000 from last year.

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Clinton Says Industry Can Impact Globe

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