Energy Independence and the Environment

Energy Independence and the Environment

Following the tragedy of 9/11, America had a unique opportunity to begin liberating itself from dependence upon foreign oil, which would not only strengthen our position in the war on terror but also reduce CO 2 emissions and their disastrous environmental effects.

Instead, Congress passed the 2005 Energy Bill, which featured billions in subsidies to big oil and did little for conservation and energy efficiency. The bill also limits Connecticut's ability to object to the siting of a large liquified natural gas facility in the middle of Long Island Sound.

Clean energy is not only important to our economic and national security, but the future of the planet hangs in the balance. The United States, with 4.6% of the world's population, consumes 21.8% of the world's energy. By 2025, China will double its oil consumption, and India's oil imports are slated to increase to more than three times their current level.

I support an overarching plan for clean energy and energy independence: basic research, higher mileage per gallon standards, disincentives for high polluting and gas guzzling users and incentives for high mileage, and clean energy alternatives. Energy independence and the environment must be an integral part of every public policy decision.

http://nedlamont.com/issues/67/energy-independence-and-the-environment