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As we dig out from a winter of wild weather and approach Earth Day, let’s take stock of where we stand and what’s still needed to ensure a livable world for future generations.
We’re already experiencing the impacts of climate change. Everyone notices the difference in the winters, and that feeling we all have of extreme weather events becoming more common is now a fact of life.
While this trend is almost certain to continue, we still have an opportunity to make a huge difference in how the climate crisis plays out. It’s not about minimizing our separate carbon footprints – worrying about that only delays more important action.
What’s needed is individual action toward a collective solution: an economy-wide price on pollution. The U.S. is the only major economy left on earth without a fee for polluting. Need to burn something and vent the exhaust? No problem, future generations will pick up the tab! That’s what needs to change.
The best part is when we put a price on pollution like Canada did with its carbon fee and dividend law, it unleashes the power of the economy to find the most cost-effective ways to cut carbon while raising net incomes for most families. It’s a win-win all around.
We need all hands on deck. Everyone alive today has the opportunity to set the stage for centuries to come, for better or for worse. Learn how you can get involved with Citizens’ Climate Lobby at CCLUSA.org.
John O’Bryan
Brunswick