The recent article “There’s still a way to reach global goal on climate change” (The Columbian, April 13) paints a picture that is somewhat encouraging about the promises world governments have made on climate. If carried out, these promises could stanch the most catastrophic effects of climate change and bring us within sight of a safer future.
To turn these promises into reality, Congress needs to enact robust climate policies now. One of the most effective ways to do this is with a carbon fee and dividend policy. This market-based, revenue-neutral policy has been endorsed by over 3,500 economists and would enable us to meet the Biden administration’s goal of cutting U.S. emissions in half by 2030, which is a necessary step to limiting planetary warming to 2 degrees Celsius. In realistic terms, 2022 may be the last year of united government in which strong climate policy can be passed. Sens. Jeff Merkley, Ron Wyden, Maria Cantwell and Patty Murray should use this time wisely and turn climate promises into climate policy this year.
