Congressmen should join climate caucus

Seth Borenstein's article "Even without El Nino last year, Earth keeps on warming" (Daily Herald - Jan. 18, 2018) provides additional evidence that policy changes are needed to address global warming.

With NASA scientists calling 2017 the second hottest year on record, we need more congressional representatives to join the 66 Republicans and Democrats in the Climate Solutions Caucus. This bipartisan team is listening to the 97 percent of climate scientists who believe climate change is happening and human activity is the main driver. They are working on possible solutions.

One solution is a revenue neutral Carbon Fee & Dividend program that puts a gradually increasing "fee" on carbon emissions and then returns that fee to households. By making carbon-based products more expensive, the playing field will tilt in favor of non-greenhouse gas-emitting technologies.

With its market-based and less regulatory approach, this program could enjoy the support of both parties. The predictable nature of a Carbon Fee & Dividend program will unleash a torrent of investment in "green" energy alternatives. Studies show a program like this will drive significant GDP growth and job creation over the long haul, while dramatically reducing carbon pollution.

Urge your congressman to take action and join the Climate Solutions Caucus.

Andrew Panelli

Homer Glen