The copious emissions of greenhouse gasses, constantly rising temperatures, and the increasingly unpredictable snow and rainfall patterns mean that, whether we like it or not, we just need to have a conversation about climate change. And, because it has become clear that the public needs to address this issue, it has also become necessary for the leading frontrunners in the November elections to discuss these concerns.
As has been his wont since day one, Trump has been largely dismissive of any scientific evidence of climate change. And, because he refuses to accept that this global shift in weather patterns is a real thing that requires immediate attention, his idea of climate control essentially involves rolling back the various environmental protection policies in place at this time and “promoting economic growth” by giving all and sundry access to drill where they wish for oil, gas, and coal. In essence, he would take us back to the “Drill, Baby, Drill” days of the 2000s, the same period that has made it pertinent for us to change our ways and find a more sustainable approach to coexisting with the earth.
The Harris climate agenda has considerably different plans. This is clearly evidenced by the fact that, from the moment that he was sworn into office, Kamala Harris didn’t waste a single moment in pushing for the Inflation Reduction Act, a policy that would prove the single greatest investment in clean energy in our nation’s history.
In all sincerity, the novelty of the idea alone sounds appealing. This is more so the case when you consider how much damage we’ve done to the earth and our ecosystem through our continued reliance on and use of fossil fuels. As of the moment of writing, more than $370 billion has been poured into this endeavor and it has yielded significant fruits so far, with the promise of so much more to come.
Beyond its sheer novelty and genius, the Harris climate agenda is also quite ambitious. However, considering just how dire things can get if we were to continue on our current trajectory, ambition is just what we need. So, it’s a truly welcome relief that Harris’s clean energy strategy intends to actively lower the greenhouse gas emissions of the nation by optimizing our transportation networks and streamlining the type and quality of energy that the average American home has access to.
Furthermore, this policy implements necessary measures like offering pollution grants for communities, imposing a fee on methane pollution, and ensuring significant tax breaks for the use of hydrogen.
One of the best things about Harris’ climate policy is the fact that it contains the stick and the carrot in equal and satisfactory measure. It offers ample incentives to both companies and households to make the switch from fossil fuels to clean energy. However, in addition to that, it also imposes decent penalties for those who refuse to make that transition. It is for this reason that, even though it might be a somewhat close call, we really just might halve our 2005 peak emission levels by 2030!
But, even with all the clear benefits of this method of approach, many Americans may still be inclined to shun it in favor of Trump’s climate plan. One possible reason for this is the wild misconception that ditching fossil fuels for clean energy will skew the economy of the nation.
Now, while it is no doubt true that America became the manufacturing titan that it is today thanks in large part to fossil fuels, this doesn’t mean that we can’t survive and thrive in its absence.
The singular proof of this is the fact that the implementation of the IRA has spurred many companies to pump billions of dollars into new plants and factories that will facilitate the production of clean energy products and services. Coupled with other resources like the generous tax breaks of the IRA program, the CHIPS and Science Act as well as the bipartisan infrastructure law, we see one thing clearly – America will do just fine without oil and gas, economy-wise. This is because Harris’s clean energy policy will not only create jobs to cover those that will be lost with the obsoletion of fossil fuel use but will add newer, better opportunities to the mix as well!
At this point, it must be said that the IRA is still young, and any benefits we might currently be getting from it are still fledging. This is why we need someone who will continue to protect this dream and vision until it has bloomed and achieved its full potential.
While Trump doesn’t hesitate to be coy when it comes to certain kitchen table issues, he hasn’t hidden his agenda for the IRA policy. The moment he assumes office, chances are very good that he’ll do everything within his considerable power to throw it out the window and plunge us back into the dark ages.
Only Harris has the zeal, will, and incentive to preserve this important program. It’s something that’s certain to prove rewarding both now and in the future. And, sure, the transitioning process will have its challenges, and a few sacrifices will have to be made. But in the end, it’ll all be effort well expended.
No price is too great to protect our Earth.
