Mark Pearson outlined state and regional actions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the fossil fuel sector (Aug. 21, “Opportunities abound for engagement on climate change”).
It is encouraging to see progress being made toward cleaner energy sources in Colorado and the Four Corners area.
Opportunities also abound for engagement on climate change at the national level. Colorado can’t solve this problem on its own. Getting Congress to pass carbon fee and dividend legislation would reduce emissions economy widely across all 50 states – without adding to the federal deficit.
Put a fee on fossil fuels based on their greenhouse gas emissions when burned. Return the revenue to Americans in equal per capita monthly “carbon cash-back” dividends. That offsets the increase in household energy prices for most low- and middle-income earners. Add a border carbon adjustment to create a level playing field for U.S. businesses and put pressure on major trading partners like China to clean up their own emissions.
If we want to meet our climate goals, we need a federal solution with an effective lever to shift behavior in China and India. Please call or email Sens. Michael Bennet (bennet.senate.gov) and John Hickenlooper (hickenlooper.senate.gov) and Rep. Lauren Boebert (boebert.house.gov). Ask them to sponsor carbon pricing legislation today.
Kathy Fackler
Durango
