The Salt Lake Valley has been experiencing unusual levels of drought, smoky air and high temperatures this summer. All are early signs of climate change. If we do nothing about the problem, heat waves, fire and drought will become even more common, destroying property and lives. But we can do something! Put a federal price on carbon.
This market solution would not only save lives and property but would help businesses too! Businesses like stability and have difficulty planning when the climate keeps shifting. A carbon fee would also help the U.S. avoid Europe’s border tariff on carbon, helping us remain internationally competitive. And, the greatest draw of employers and employees to Utah is the great outdoors, which is much more enjoyable when we have snow for winter sports, clean air for hiking, and water in our lakes for boating.
No wonder carbon pricing has bipartisan support in Congress.
Some worry that a carbon fee would raise prices. But the fees can be distributed to the American people. And consider that in 2020 climate disasters cost the U.S. at least $1 billion in damages.
It is time to take personal responsibility and be good stewards of the earth, for ourselves and for our children and grandchildren.
I call on my U.S. representatives, Sens. Mitt Romney and Mike Lee and Rep. Burgess Owens, to use market-friendly carbon-pricing to save lives, property and to preserve our quality of life.
Georgia Platts, South Jordan
