Citizens of Greenfield, wake up! We all know about the devastating effects of climate change. What you might not know is that with the rising temperatures will come a tick apocalypse. Already, Lyme disease is a severe problem in Western Mass. and as climate change continues to take effect, your chances of encountering these lethal parasites will continue to rise.
Though it’s easy to feel powerless in the face of this global crisis, there are local efforts which have the potential for large-scale change and they need your help. Currently there are two carbon fee and rebate bills moving through Mass. legislation. These bills would charge people for polluting the air like we charge people for putting trash in a landfill. The money, collected as fuel is purchased, would be divided equitably between every resident of Mass. and returned to them at the end of each year. People who release less carbon dioxide (often people with low incomes) will receive more money than they pay to begin with.
Though no state has yet adopted a similar bill, carbon pricing is considered the most effective means of reducing carbon emissions by both liberal and conservative economists and there are successful examples internationally.
To help get these bills passed, sign up for Action Alerts from Massachusetts Campaign for a Clean Energy Future, Climate XChange and Climate Action Now to receive emails about specific actions you can take as the bills work their way through legislation. You can also get involved with local organizations lobbying for these bills, such as Climate Action Now. On a national level, we need to take action as well. April 29 is the People’s Climate March on Washington. Go to 350.com to find local sister marches or carpooling opportunities to Washington.
Lucia Mason
Montague