Energy and climate change: Nonpartisan policies for the next U.S. President

Abstract

The world currently stands at a crossroads in terms of its energy future. The two choices laid before us could not be more stark. Either mankind can continue to burn fossil fuels at an astonishing rate and suffer the deleterious effects of global climate change, or we can commit ourselves to a sustainable, and attainable energy future. The United States—with the world’s largest GDP and third largest population—remains the second largest emitter of carbon dioxide. Regardless of its role as a major fossil fuel consumer, the United States has a clear opportunity to change its ways. By developing a sustainable carbon footprint, enhancing renewable energy partnerships, and pioneering new energy technologies, this nation has the opportunity to transform itself from major polluter to a green energy leader. Given the failures of the Trump administration to commit the United States to a sustainable carbon footprint and to make meaningful strides in sustainability, the authors of this document have tailored their respective reports for the next administration. President Trump's decision to withdraw from the Paris Climate Accords, refusal to invest in alternative energy resources, and multiple reversals of vital environmental regulations undercuts our country’s credibility as the leader of the free world. As undergraduate students of the University of Washington, however, we understand that future generations—including our own—will be directly impacted by issues related to energy security and climate change. It is therefore up to students such as ourselves to make young voices heard by the future president.