The announcement by the EPA that it will move to regulate greenhouse gas emissions not only reflects the consensus of scientists that we need to take rapid action to stop the build up of heat-trapping gases. It is also a bit of smart strategic maneuvering by the administration as it works to insure America has a climate change and clean energy policy in place as soon as possible.
As one article that I was reading today points out, the EPA's move leaves opponents of progress on climate change and clean energy solutions a choice: either support Congressional legislation, which will likely contain numerous compromises for polluters, or face the largely regulatory hammer of the EPA The latter, says the article, "has generated fear and deep divisions within American industry. Some major utilities, oil companies and other heavy emitters are working closely with Congress to ensure that a climate bill would circumvent E.P.A. regulation by substituting a market-based cap-and-trade system."
It's a good position for supporters of climate change solutions, for as our readers well know, solving climate change will also provide game-changing benefits to our economy, security, public health, and overall quality of life.
A reminder to our readers -- especially those in swing states -- please call your Senator and urge them to support this bill: 202-224-3121.
Over the course of the coming weeks, we'll also be blogging talking points that you can use to educate your Senator in how to make the bill a better reflection of the best advice of scientists such as Stanford University expert, Dr. Stephen Schneider.
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