The Importance of Bipartisanship

To respond effectively to climate change, it's essential that people in the United States and around the world put aside partisan differences and act together as a collective.

Even though there's disagreement on the causes and consequences of climate change, many Republican states have already taken steps to promote renewable energy in order to drive job growth. Iowa, Kansas, and Oklahoma have set ambitious targets for solar and wind power. Texas is a leader in solar. Economic, environmental, and health benefits of renewables will benefit everyone, regardless of political affiliation. While some politicians rely on oil and gas companies for campaign contributions, that does not mean progress is not being made in other areas or by leaders who are not as dependent on fossil fuel money.

The global economy is shifting toward renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and geothermal. If the U.S. stalls in transitioning to renewable energy at scale, we'll risk being left behind in the growing market for clean energy technology. This is not an environmental issue alone — it's also a matter of economic security. If the states continue to rely on fossil fuels, other countries will increasingly turn to alternative suppliers, leaving the states vulnerable to fluctuations in global markets.

The costs associated with inaction on climate change could cost the world’s economy US$178 trillion by 2070. Extreme weather events and changing patterns will impact agricultural productivity and infrastructure, plus impact human health and lives. Not to mention the risk of the extinction of 1 million species. While some politicians may downplay the urgency of global warming, many agree that the consequences of inaction will be catastrophic.

Democrats are more likely to believe that present-day climate change is caused by burning coal, oil, and natural gas and that a rapid transition to renewable energy is necessary to avoid catastrophic climate and ecological breakdown. Even if Republicans do not agree with Democrats, producing EVs, solar, wind power, and geothermal energy will help us remain a relevant economic power, create jobs, ensure cleaner air and water, and, in turn, reduce healthcare costs.

By coming together across party lines, we can invest in renewable energy and build a sustainable, healthier, and more prosperous future for ourselves and generations to come. Together we can.