3 Things You Need To Know About The Conservative Policies And Plans For Climate Change

by Contributor

(Sep. 23, 2022) — Climate change refers to shifts in temperatures and weather conditions that can have long-lasting effects on the environment. Some people believe that conservatives are downplaying the effects of climate change or are completely denying them. But the reality is, conservative officials are also pushing policy changes that won’t just benefit the environment—but the economy as well.

These policies push forth a variety of alternative solutions that won’t affect the economy in the process. It offers a more constructive and realistic approach that does not simply rely on restricting greenhouse gas emissions.

The Raging Patriot has great resources as to how conservatives approach climate change and other modern issues. For a brief background on their plans and policies, continue reading below:

1. Environmental Policies And Economic Growth Should Go Hand In Hand

Conservatives support market-driven solutions that create jobs and effectively reduce emissions. Officials believe that decarbonization, alternative power, and economic growth should go hand in hand.

When dealing with climate change, most conservatives are conscious about the economic repercussions of each environmental policy. But this does not mean officials are prioritizing the economy over the environment. 

In fact, when the economy is prioritized, states will be more capable of handling the effects of climate change. Adapting to extreme temperatures and weather-proofing requires funding too. With a good economy, these measures will be much more achievable. This is a more proactive approach, compared to just waiting and trusting governments and large-scale manufacturers to reduce carbon emissions. 

2. Conservatives Support Simple And Cost-Efficient Solutions

Since the Kyoto Protocol was signed in 1997, climate change policies have been focused on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and imposing carbon taxes on excessive emitters. Obviously, the end goal is to reduce or completely replace the use of fossil fuels and coal in large-scale production processes. 

However, this approach proved futile. There are little to no consequences for violators. Most of all, some states are completely exempt or are not covered by the protocol. Aside from that, excessive greenhouse gas emitters can simply pay carbon taxes, and continue without compelling consequences.

Conservatives, on the other hand, believe that the solution can be simple. Instead of expecting states and commercial establishments to follow regulations and protocols, straightforward strategies such as planting more trees can be done. 

Tree planting is a more cost-efficient and doable solution. Citizens can even take part in such programs. Most of all, you’ll be sure that these trees can do a better job at absorbing greenhouse gases compared to “clean” technology. Republicans in Congress also support this measure. 

3. Tax Credits And Subsidies Over Penalties

Ever since the issue of climate change has come to light, solutions are only focused on reducing carbon emissions. As mentioned, excessive emitters are charged with carbon taxes—basically a form of penalty. 

Liberal policymakers have implemented this with the expectations that large contributors of greenhouse gases will make an effort in reducing emissions and later switch to clean energy. However, these policymakers didn’t take into account that large contributors of greenhouse gases have the means to pay in the first place. Hence, the penalties imposed are just a mere slap on the wrist.  

On the other hand, conservatives believe that giving tax credits and subsidization is more effective. Instead of simply imposing penalties on violators, policies that reward compliant emitters will have a more positive effect. 

For one, commercial establishments are more likely going to chase tax credits to increase profit margins. Hence, there is a compelling reason for them to keep carbon emissions at the low end. With increased profits, these institutions will have more resources to invest in and switch to clean technology or explore alternative sources of energy. This should go hand in hand with subsidies.

Conclusion

Many antiquated policies do not contribute to solving climate change issues. Instead, these policies hold back the country, especially in economic production, innovation, and when pursuing alternative sources of energy like geothermal energy, nuclear energy, and hydroelectric energy. 

Environmental policies that won’t hamper livelihoods and economic progress should be prioritized. These solutions don’t even have to be complicated. Simple solutions such as tree planting, extending tax credits, and removing penalties can effectively reduce carbon emissions—all without risking jobs and industries. 

Prioritizing the economy should not be misconstrued as being climate change deniers. Many conservatives do care about the environment and the effects of climate change, that’s why the economy should not be set aside when pursuing such solutions. 

With a good economy, states can better prepare for extreme temperatures and even have the means to switch to alternative sources of energy and make use of clean technology. Liberal views have long dominated the discussion of climate change, but conservatives also have a lot to bring to the table.