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The Urgency for Pennsylvania to Act on Greenhouse Gases
As climate change continues to wreak havoc across the globe, Pennsylvania finds itself at a critical crossroads. Environmental lawyers Robert McKinstry and John Dernbach have long argued that the state has a moral and legal obligation to curb its greenhouse gas emissions. At the forefront of their advocacy is Pennsylvania's environmental rights amendment, which asserts that residents have a right to clean air and pure water. This constitutional framework establishes the state as a trustee of these vital resources, underscoring the need for proactive measures against climate change.
Missed Opportunities in Climate Action
The lawyers, who have been championing climate responsibility for almost 25 years, express increasing frustration about the state's inaction on potentially transformative policies. As they stated, "We have lost seven years—time that could have been spent more fully developing a lower-cost and more reliable clean energy economy." The warning signs are clear: floods, severe storms, and droughts are now staples of Pennsylvania's weather pattern. Yet, despite a mounting climate crisis, the hope of joining initiatives like the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) has evaporated amid political squabbling and budgetary conflicts.
Introducing the SAVER Regulation: A New Hope
In response to this stagnation, McKinstry and Dernbach have proposed a cap-and-trade solution known as the Stability and Affordability Via Emissions Reductions (SAVER) regulation. Modeled after California’s successful cap-and-trade program, SAVER aims to reduce Pennsylvania's emissions by 40% by 2030, with a long-term goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2052. Cap-and-trade works by placing a limit on emissions while allowing companies the flexibility to buy and sell emission allowances, thereby promoting efficiency and incentivizing reductions.
Economic Incentives and Job Creation
Proponents of the SAVER regulation argue that adopting such a framework could invigorate Pennsylvania’s economy. By investing in clean energy and sustainable practices, the initiative has the potential to create thousands of jobs, stimulate public transportation improvements, and ensure a healthier environment. As highlighted, this model has seen success in various parts of the world, leading to enhanced public health and sustainable economic growth.
The Divide in Perspectives
However, there remain significant concerns regarding cap-and-trade's effectiveness, particularly in addressing environmental justice issues. Critics of such programs argue that merely providing allowances for pollution could further burden marginalized communities. Yet, both McKinstry and Dernbach are committed to addressing these issues in the rulemaking process to ensure that the benefits of SAVER are equitably distributed.
Calls for a Unified Front
As tensions flared over the RGGI and the state's approach to climate policy, Gov. Josh Shapiro emphasized the need for action in his recent budget address. His Lightning Plan, which proposes a cap-and-invest program known as the Pennsylvania Climate Emissions Reduction Act (PACER), is a step towards finally overcoming legislative gridlock. However, the skepticism surrounding these proposals is palpable, especially from the fossil fuel industry and some lawmakers who fear economic repercussions.
The Long Road Ahead
Though the obstacles appear daunting, McKinstry and Dernbach remain steadfast in their pursuit of a greener Pennsylvania. They recognize that making meaningful changes will require patience and perseverance. Previous attempts at substantial climate action have been met with setbacks; however, they argue that in this critical time, the need for decisive action is more pressing than ever.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
For Pennsylvanians to advocate for policies that protect their environment and well-being, now is the time to rally behind measures that can make a true difference. Whether that includes supporting the SAVER regulation or participating in dialogues around PACER, collective efforts will shape the state’s pivotal role in combating climate change.
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