Which weighs more: a ton of bricks or a ton of CO2?

For those of us who are not scientists, it is hard to understand how a gallon of gas, which weighs about 6 pounds, can create 20 pounds of CO2. So when we drive, or fly, or heat our homes with oil, we are adding CO2 into the thin layer of atmosphere that surrounds our earth. CO2, unlike oxygen, absorbs infrared radiation and then re-emits it.

That’s why burning fossil fuels is causing a climate crisis.

Moving away from fossil fuels will be difficult and costly. There are policies which make it more equitable, such as a carbon fee and dividend. The people who use the most energy will pay more, and the proceeds will be distributed to all households. Most middle income Americans will come out ahead. H.R. 763, the Energy Innovation and Carbon Dividend Act, will help us transition to a more liveable future. Let your legislators know that you support climate action.

Join the Global Climate Strike on September 20th! Let your voice be heard.

Marty Bishop, Port Orchard

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