Unrepresentative Policy - Climate Change Series #9
Stopping climate catastrophe is, as we have already established, deeply popular with the American people. Politicians should feel confident in taking bold climate action, secure in the knowledge that two in three Americans want them doing more. But bending the climate emissions curve downward requires more than just high rhetoric and sweeping declarations, we need many specific policies which will change companies and individuals choices towards greener and more sustainable options.
What policies should government officials pursue that can tackle our climate emergency and still have popular support? Do such policies even exist, or are the American people only supportive of platitudes when it comes to the climate? Not only do they exist, but these policies are legion. Let's start with one of the most fundamental concepts, internalizing the cost of carbon.
How much do you support or oppose the following policy? Require fossil fuel companies to pay a carbon tax and use the money to reduce other taxes (such as income tax) by an equal amount.
Support: 66%
Once again, two in three Americans are crystal clear on this issue: they want fossil fuel companies paying for the carbon they emit. No more free rides for major emitters, we want them to own up to the pollution they spew as part of their operations, and start compensating society for the damages to our health and environment! As we will see, a carbon tax is merely the tip of the proverbial iceberg when it comes to the incredible changes Americans are demanding their representatives begin to implement. We've got the people and the policy, let's make our elected officials listen, so they can begin to act before it's too late!
Let your representatives know this issue is important to you, contact info can be found at: https://www.house.gov/representatives/find-your-representative
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