Since the debate is going nowhere, and it is rather obvious that even science cannot always be trusted nor relied upon for information, how about we just put our money where our mouth is? The beauty of our system is that is mandates debate – and there is enough of that going on – now we need some real solutions. So let’s make EVERYBODY HAPPY!
According to the EPA (all opinions on this regulatory system are being sequestered mind you), the “bad” Green House Gases are:
- Carbon Dioxide (CO2): Carbon dioxide enters the atmosphere through the burning of fossil fuels (oil, natural gas, and coal), solid waste, trees and wood products, and also as a result of other chemical reactions (e.g., manufacture of cement). Carbon dioxide is also removed from the atmosphere (or “sequestered”) when it is absorbed by plants as part of the biological carbon cycle.
- Methane (CH4): Methane is emitted during the production and transport of coal, natural gas, and oil. Methane emissions also result from livestock and other agricultural practices and by the decay of organic waste in municipal solid waste landfills.
- Nitrous Oxide (N2O): Nitrous oxide is emitted during agricultural and industrial activities, as well as during combustion of fossil fuels and solid waste.
- Fluorinated Gases: Hydrofluorocarbons, perfluorocarbons, and sulfur hexafluoride are synthetic, powerful greenhouse gases that are emitted from a variety of industrial processes. Fluorinated gases are sometimes used as substitutes for ozone-depleting substances (i.e., CFCs, HCFCs, and halons). These gases are typically emitted in smaller quantities, but because they are potent greenhouse gases, they are sometimes referred to as High Global Warming Potential gases (“High GWP gases”).
Okay, we can all agree that these substances in large quantities are not good for anyone (like anything else – everything in moderation), how about we spend millions and billions of dollars that are thrown at this topic on: EDUCATION & PREVENTION. For instance, instead of ANY government-mandated system like Cap & Trade, how about we just plant more trees, work on developing alternative energies, and fund science that will find ways to not use such dangerous gases in the first place. Wouldn’t those activities stimulate the economy? Create jobs? Allow market-forces to work?
Come on people! We can shoot rockets into the moon to look for water but we can’t find alternative ways to produce energy or do so in a more natural way without such dangerous outputs/gases? I am not falling for it. Solve the problem by making the world a better place THROUGH CAPITALIST APPROACHES – make it make money. Now THAT is sustainable!
By Tisha Casida
Celebrating Sovereignty 