I confess; I am terrified. Why? Because our next government is calling to “unleash the power of our energy resources” and “repeal job-killing environmental regulations.”
Yet human caused climate change is real. If any state knows what climate change feels like, it is Alaska; we have already warmed at twice the rate of the rest of the U.S. and can expect that to continue into the 21st century. Moreover, an overwhelming 97 percent of climate scientists insist that to ensure a livable planet, we must reduce our carbon dioxide emissions dramatically. That same methodical approach to collection and analysis of information has taught us that, for example, mammograms save lives and regular hand washing prevents the spread of disease. These other pearls of science, which we readily accept, are no more immediately obvious than something as abstract as climate change.
Yet the climate change deniers currently moving into powerful positions in our government claim that not all scientists agree. This is a misreading of how the scientific method works. The deniers also say that pandering to scientific doomsday-speak will destroy our economy. These deniers are ignoring the millions of jobs that can be created by the new alternative fuels economy.
Sen. Lisa Murkowski, with her seniority much touted during her campaign, should stand up against such short-term thinking. This isn’t about political correctness, identity politics or which presidential candidate was less unappealing. If President-elect Trump really thinks that climate change is a Chinese hoax, he needs cabinet members who will correct his misconceptions. The United States must maintain our commitments under the Paris Climate Accords — so that all those other polluters will also.
I commend Sen. Murkowski for her efforts in encouraging the development of renewable energy sources (for example in the Energy Bill S 2012 passed this winter.) As an Alaskan, she has unique credentials to take the lead in showing the country how to embrace the giant opportunity which is renewable energy, unleashing the creative power of our history of research and development. That’s what leaders do: rather than promoting outdated ideas, they show the way forward.
Stephanie Harold
Hoonah