Should we move to 100% Renewable Energy, Zero-Emission Vehicles, and Regenerative Agriculture by 2030?
This bill seeks to help mitigate climate change by investing in renewable energy, increasing the production of zero-emission cars, implementing regulations for greenhouse gas emissions, and increasing the amount of regenerative farming This bill also ensures the well-being of animals, creates tax provisions relating to climate transition costs, and facilitates support for these projects.
Sponsor: Rep Adriano Espaillat (Democrat, New York, District 13)
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How do you feel?
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Opponents say
• "The problem is, to make this work, we’re going to need a lot more renewable energy. One model from Princeton University shows that a plausible path to decarbonization would require 590,000 square kilometers dedicated to wind and solar power, which would be about the same size as Connecticut, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Ohio, Rhode Island and Tennessee combined. Here’s another catch: Our energy needs vary dramatically by season. In summer, it’s dominated by electricity for air conditioning; in winter, it’s dominated by heating demand, mostly from gas. So phasing out fossil fuels would mean shifting when we put the most stress on the grid." Source: The Washington Post Opinion Section
• "[Many] fail to acknowledge that there is no such thing as a “zero-emitting” vehicle and that a ban would add costs to already-stretched households and expose [Americans] to risks — especially during natural disasters when power grids often fail and electric vehicles (EVs) cannot be charged. " The San Diego Union-Tribune
Proponents say
• "Studies show that people of color, women, children, the elderly, persons with disabilities, low-income persons, and individuals with underlying health conditions face even greater risks due to climate change. In addition, the National Centers for Environmental Information found that, in 2022, there were 18 climate disaster events with losses exceeding $1 billion each that affected the United States. If our current inaction continues, the United States and the world will begin to see even more devastating effects such as food insecurity, drought, poverty, and displacement. The Earth Act to Stop Climate Pollution by 2030 accomplishes these goals with a comprehensive approach on renewable electricity, zero-emission vehicles, and regenerative agriculture, putting our nation on a strengthened path toward a more sustainable climate future." Source: Rep Espaillat (Democrat, New York, District 13)
• "As of April 2021, WE HAVE 6 YEARS, 8 MONTHS until our pollution levels lock in 1.5 degrees warming. We've known for 40 years but haven't acted. 2030 is the emergency timeline. By simply fixing how our electricity, cars and food are made - we can achieve 50% of our pollution solution - on top of 25% in motion - for a total of 75% by 2050! This would meet and exceed the USA Paris Commitments and eliminate 20% of global GHG emissions. This is leadership at the scale and speed required by the crisis." Source: The Earth Bill
- Rep. Adriano Espaillat Introduces the Earth Act (Press Release)
- What is the Earth Bill (Earth Bill)
- Environment & Energy Congressional Round-Up | February 21-24, 2023 (Environmental and Energy Study Institute)
- Update from the Office of Justice, Peace and Care for Creation, February 8, 2023 (Sisters of Notre Dame De Namur)
