TL/DR –
The article discusses climate change, its causes, and the impact it has on the environment and people. It highlights various climate policies like the Inflation-Reduction Act, the Paris Climate Accord, and the Green New Deal, and includes an overview of the climate change stances of various presidential candidates such as Kamala Harris, Cornel West, Donald Trump, Chase Oliver, and Jill Stein. The writer, a high school student, expresses concerns about the feasibility of transitioning too quickly from fossil fuels and the importance of government policies reflecting the will of the people.
The Impacts and Politics of Climate Change
Since my childhood, I’ve been intrigued by climate change, seeking explanations for its causes and solutions. It is a complex issue involving science, business, federal policy, and politics. Understanding the role of fossil fuels in climate change is crucial. These fuels, formed from plants and animals millions of years ago, can release massive amounts of energy when burned. However, they also release carbon dioxide (CO2), a greenhouse gas that traps heat in our atmosphere.
Fossil fuel consumption has led to an increase in the Earth’s surface temperature, with the speed of warming being significantly faster since 1982. This rapid change is causing noticeable warming effects, including warmer ocean temperatures and increased rates of water evaporation, leading to more extreme weather events. The question is, what measures are being taken by our government to mitigate these effects?
Key Climate Policies in the United States
Three climate policies have been frequently discussed during the current Presidential election. The first is the Inflation-Reduction Act, which encourages clean energy through spending and tax credits. The second is the Paris Climate Accord, a global agreement to limit the average rise in global temperature. The third is the Green New Deal, a resolution calling on the U.S. government to transition away from fossil fuels and towards a clean energy economy.
Candidate Stances on Climate Change
Different presidential candidates have varying positions on climate change. Democrat Kamala Harris has a history of action against climate change and supports the Inflation Reduction Act and the Green New Deal. Cornel West, the Justice For All Party candidate, refers to the climate emergency as a significant issue and criticizes fossil fuels. Donald Trump, the Republican candidate, has been skeptical about climate change and withdrew the U.S. from the Paris Agreement during his previous presidency. Libertarian candidate Chase Oliver supports nuclear power while Jill Stein, the Green Party candidate, supports a “Real Green New Deal” that goes further than the original in stopping fossil fuel use.
My Perspective on Climate Change
While it’s tempting to deny climate change to avoid lifestyle changes, the evidence proves it’s a reality. It’s crucial that our next president takes it seriously and implements effective policies. We need to carefully consider our energy resources, as a hasty shift away from fossil fuels may not be readily accepted by the public. The key is to strike a balance between environmental responsibility and practical feasibility.
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