Global
warming is a . . . well, global phenomenon. The degree to which it can
be slowed by changes in human behavior is arguable, but an indisputable
aspect of the issue is that remedial steps also produce general
environmental benefits.
So
a plan of state action promoted by the environmental group,
PennEnvironment, is worthwhile on its merits regardless of whether it
has the desired effect of contributing to a slowdown of global warming.
A chief feature of the plan is that it is based on available
technology. It is a combination of reduced energy consumption, higher
gas mileage standards for cars, increased production of biofuels to
replace gasoline and diesel fuel, increased production of renewable
energy from wind and other sources, increased use of mass transit and
reduced industrial emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse
gases.
None of the proposals requires the development of new technology,
although some would require new government policies to reward greater
fuel efficiency and lower emissions.
The state Legislature should adopt the sensible proposal as a guideline
to the state’s contributions to cleaner air and, potentially, to make a
major contribution to slowed global warming.
