Chris Mooney’s article “U.S. Scientists Declare 2016 Hottest Year...” points out that both NOAA and NASA confirm rocketing global temperatures, demonstrating that climate change is real and requires immediate action. These conclusions, supported by virtually all climate scientists who withstand the scorching test of peer review, mean that we must start the hard work of correcting our energy use patterns, so our children can have a good, decent, livable world.
It’s time for all people of good conscience to step up and take part. It’s very frightening to confront the reality of destruction that, in geological terms, is imminent. We do not have time to ignore or avoid the news. Our crops and water supply are gravely threatened.
We have to think clearly and quickly, and coordinate as a community. Time to be a team. We have done this before — remember World War II.
There is already a good plan in the works. This year, legislation will be proposed to enact a carbon fee and dividend on carbon at its source — primarily fossil fuels. Each year the fee would gradually increase, creating incentive to invent and use new lower-carbon technologies.
But wait, a fee? Because prices for energy will rise, all fees collected would be returned to American citizens in monthly dividend checks. These dividends could purchase hybrid/electric vehicles, high-tech solutions, and a new, expanding, exportable marketplace of products. Fully two-thirds of folks would make money or break even, stimulating the economy and protecting the lower and middle class.
We need Scott Tipton and Cory Gardner onboard to lead this free market, revenue neutral plan and create 2.1 million new, well-paid American careers. This approach actually rewards us for upgrading to a lifestyle that protects our most valuable resources — our planet and our children.
Most economists call this plan the best, most effective option available. It proceeds gradually, giving everyone time to retool and adjust. And it pays us back what it costs, a no-brainer.
Karen Pontius
Durango
