As the Ukrainians fight bravely, we are reminded how war is an environmental disasterThis is a grave threat to all life on the planet.
The power of aggressors to threaten the whole world is not limited to their ability to monopolize, curtail or disrupt the production and distribution fossil fuels. These products are traded on a global commodities exchange. A shock to the system anywhere can affect prices everywhere. The global economy is still too dependent on fossil fuels. You can see the foreign policy consequences in Eastern Europe today. The resulting rise in energy prices is causing real economic pain to ordinary people all over the world.
No dictator, no matter how powerful, can stop the flow of sunlight and wind. By accelerating the transition to clean energy, we will prevent the worst consequences of climate change and ensure that aggressors can be confronted without imperiling the worlds economy.
Economists, as well as energy policy leaders, agree that the U.S. should impose a carbon tax. The resulting revenue could be distributed to American citizens as a dividend, cushioning the effects of higher energy prices. Ukrainians have demonstrated unity, creativity, and sacrifice. Let their example encourage the U.S. in carbon pricing, and a transition towards clean energy.
Simon Diggins
Salt Lake City
