Regardless of those that think the concept of climate change is up for debate, it is time to address climate change as a fact and a threat. The most recent United Nations report forecasts environmental disaster by 2030 if countries do not commit to successful reforms to reverse the damage caused by carbon emissions. The United States and the planet cannot wait for a change in administration to address this issue. Regardless of donor money and party ideology, this planet is our only home and we must remain committed to taking care of it.

Renewable Energy

The future of the American energy industry must be independent and renewable. Friends of Intelligent Democracy supports:

• ● Closing down fossil fuel plants over a five-year period.
• ● Retraining programs for green energy jobs.
• ● Redirecting energy subsidies from fossil fuel companies to renewable energy providers.
• ● Creating new tax credits for residential renewable energy installation where applicable.

Green Infrastructure Investments

A priority for Congress must be rebuilding American infrastructure and ensuring that our updated infrastructure is built using environmentally safe construction practices and green energy capabilities. Friends of Intelligent Democracy supports:

• ● Passing an infrastructure package that includes rebuilding highways, bridges, and tunnels that include green energy sources such as solar panels, small turbines.
• ● Sourcing hemp and other environmentally friendly construction material from American companies.

Industry’s Role in Fighting Climate Change

Recent reports show that the 100 largest corporations account for 71% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Before the government mandates changes in individual American lives, Congress should focus on the industries polluting our atmosphere and water. Friends of Intelligent Democracy supports:

• ● Tax breaks for companies that source at least 60% of their energy needs from renewable energy sources and promise to transition to 100% clean energy over three years.
• ● Allowing the Department of Energy and Department of Commerce to do “energy evaluations” of the 100 largest corporations and create “Carbon Emission Action Plans” that recommend solutions to curb corporate greenhouse emissions. If companies fail to take actions, financial penalties can be assessed until the requirements of action plans are met.

Paris Climate Accords

The United States should remain committed to addressing the issue of climate change in a cooperative manner and should work with other countries to lower carbon dioxide emissions in an effort to slow the rise of the global average temperature, rising sea levels and ocean desalination. Friends of Intelligent Democracy supports:

• ● The United States of America rejoining the Paris Climate Accords.
• ● Officially recognizing climate change as a threat to national security.