Benefits of a healthy economy

A healthy economy is a green economy in harmony with Nature

I asked Elizabeth, an acquaintance, about Global Warming. Liz said Fox News claims global warming is a hoax, Al Gore is not to be trusted, and the US is doing more than any other country to reduce carbon emissions. Liz said there was not much she could do holding two jobs to pay her bills. Making people work two or more part time jobs is intended to confuse Americans. Fox News is fake news.

A misleading Arkansas Democrat Gazette editorial “Forget about Paris II,” claims the US is doing enough. “If other countries followed the example of the United States, there would be little need for treaties and pacts. Imagine if every country actually decreased its carbon footprint by 2 or 3 percent each year – or by 14 percent every dozen years – instead of requiring it of Americans while making empty promises for themselves. Lead by example? Baby, we’re doing it.”

Who will pay for climate damages?

Climate actions are happening across the world. “Low-Carbon Growth Is a $26 Trillion Opportunity,” World Resources Institute has details.

A New York State lawsuit alleges ExxonMobil misled investors on the risks climate change regulations posed to its business. Unlike other lawsuits, the Attorney General has sweeping powers to investigate and prosecute securities fraud. Exxon investors are worried about their money. An investor’s blog had 140 comments, 99 percent opposing the lawsuit. Here is one with 5 “likes.”

‘“Climate Change?’ Could there be a more vague or a more false premise by which a corrupt government wages lawfare? Every time temps deviate a tiny bit from ‘averages’ some Chicken Little yammers about ‘climate change,’ except when the temps are below average, and except when the ice packs and snow pack grows on the poles… which happens a lot, lately. This is all about shady schemers grifting for $$$ by forcing us to pay ‘carbon tax.”’

Sustainable investments

ExxonMobil shareholders can move their money to high-return low-risk sustainable investments. Business and government entities are offering Green Bonds to finance transit systems, offshore wind farms, highway projects, water treatment, sewer systems, and all other infrastructure needed for a hot planet. The World Bank and other international organizations are providing investment opportunities for resilient infrastructure projects. Insurance companies anticipating enormous claims are creating new investment opportunities. Are you in good hands?

Living on a hot planet

Nature ecosystems are decaying. We are what we eat, breathe, and drink. Our food and water supplies are at risk. Many species are extinct. Massive deforestation, industrial agriculture, and frantic burning of fossil fuels for decades has disrupted Earth’s climate system. Why would we choose to ignore the facts, sell our forests, and burn fossil fuels?

Healthy economy benefits

A low-carbon economy would promote peace, safety, equality, respect, and opportunities for all. Oil will be needed for a short time as we transition to electric vehicles, and while we find replacements for plastic and other petroleum products.

A world without wars

What if people declare a temporary truce for the next 12 years? The climate threat is similar to the Cuban Missile Crisis during the Cold War. In 1947 President Harry Truman declared, “It must be the policy of the United States to support

free peoples who are resisting attempted subjugation by outside pressures.”

The Department of Defense has invaluable experience with emergencies. The military budget could be used to fund public infrastructure, education, and health. Our bridges, roads, sewers, and all public systems must be strengthened. Learning survival skills is essential.

Rise up

Here are some easy steps. Carpooling, buying local, and shopping at farmers’ markets will reduce your carbon footprint. Carroll Electric has free energy audits using infrared cameras to find home leaks and improve energy efficiency. LED lights are available in town.

Oil, Power, and War: A dark history, sheds light on what a post-oil future might look like. Check your local library.

Be creative, be calm, and stay strong.

Dr. Luis Contreras