It's Time to Deal With Climate Change!

Dear Editor,
    In the State of the Union address, President Obama promised to take action to address climate change if Congress refused to. Considering the vast damage climate change is already inflicting in the form of droughts, wildfires, and worsening storms, along with even more severe impacts predicted in the future, he is right to step up in addressing the situation in any way he can. However, it would be a terrible mistake for Congress to do nothing and thus allow this crisis to be addressed solely through executive means, when legislative alternatives exist which would be more effective, more affordable, and more economically sound. For example, a steadily rising revenue-neutral fee on carbon is a solution favored not only by conservative economists such as Greg Mankiw, but also by oil companies themselves, such as BP, Shell, and Exxon. A simple and clear carbon fee would give these companies a clear path to plan around for the future and a strong incentive to invest in renewable energy, thus benefiting everyone. Climate change is a serious problem, and we have the means – politically and technologically – to solve it, while also creating green jobs and without damaging the economy. The only thing standing in our way is partisan bickering. We should let our representatives know that it's time to come together and move forward on this issue.