To the Editors:

The choice of whether or not to develop the Green Acres property is a difficult one. It forces the Oberlin City Council to choose between housing development, which could spur economic growth, and environmental protection, displaying yet another instance of the “economy versus environment” debate. 

This made me think about the implications of one of our nation’s most significant climate policy proposals. The Energy Innovation and Carbon Dividend Act (HR 5744) produces financial benefits AND combats the climate crisis. It charges corporate polluters for their emissions and gives some of that money to Americans via a monthly check. Under this act, citizens would have access to affordable clean energy produced in the U.S., so they no longer need to worry about the price shocks and rising costs of fossil fuels. 

If the U.S. and other nations continue on their current trajectories, deaths from climate change are estimated to be 255 million by 2100. According to the Citizens Climate Lobby, “The Energy Innovation Act would reduce U.S. carbon emissions by 50 percent by 2030. This would put our nation on track to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.” The act also improves air quality by limiting fossil fuel pollution, which currently causes roughly 5 to 10 percent of U.S. deaths.

I call on Representative Bob Latta to cosponsor the Energy Innovation Act. We need more legislation that supports the economy and reduces climate change simultaneously. We don’t have to choose between the economy and the environment. With the Energy Innovation Act, we can have a win–win solution.