Don't worry; be active on climate

Scott Buckley's March 5 letter re: your interviews of Jeanne Ives and Jay Kinzler discussed how climate change is affecting the 6th District. His focus was, appropriately, close to home. But, as Scott is doubtless aware, warming, driven primarily by human activities, is a global challenge.

A whopping 97% of climate scientists are convinced by the evidence that, as one report said, "climate change is occurring, and rigorous scientific research demonstrates that greenhouse gases emitted by human activities are the primary driver."

Skeptics suggest, despite the evidence, that natural cycles, volcanoes, and/or the sun are driving climate change. However, these phenomena are too small, too slow, or have the opposite effect.

Considering other concerns just now, like elections and the novel coronavirus, I don't suggest worrying about climate change. Instead, I suggest doing something potent and easy: contacting your congressional representative and voicing support for HR 763, the Energy Innovation and Climate Dividend Act.

HR 763 is a bill with bipartisan appeal that's good for people and the economy. It will drive down America's carbon pollution and bring climate change under control while unleashing American technology innovation.

The policy puts a fee on fossil fuels like coal, oil, and gas. The fee starts low and grows over time, motivating energy companies, industries, and consumers to move toward cleaner, cheaper options.

The money collected from the carbon fee will be allocated in equal shares every month to the American people to spend as they see fit. Administrative costs will be paid from the fees; the government won't keep any of the money.

To protect U.S. manufacturers and jobs, imported goods will pay a border carbon adjustment, and goods the U.S. exports will receive a refund.

For more details on HR 763 and fighting climate change, check out the Citizen's Climate Lobby online.

Susan Scown

Glen Ellyn