Environment vs. Economy

There has been a lot of discussion in recent months about the impact of environmental regulation on the economy. It strikes me as odd that efforts to improve the environment are seen as a potential drag on the economy when in reality there isn't a strong causal link between the two. In fact, it's worth noting that prior to the financial crisis, the UK managed to reduce its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by roughly 17% while its economy grew by 45% since 1990.

Innovation Nation

I haven't posted since late last year so here's quick recap of 2010: economy in the doldrums; tied with 2005 as the hottest year on record; was also the wettest year on record (which is awkward on a number of levels); the last decade was the hottest on record (with the previous two decades coming in second and third respectively). All and all, not the kind of streak you want to be on.

So what's a possible solution that meets the trifecta of economic recovery, energy security, and climate stability? There's no easy, straightforward answer but a critical element, and one that needs to be ramped up quickly, is the need to embrace a clean energy future. In doing so, you have the opportunity to design new technologies, enable new markets, and most importantly, create new jobs. And it all comes with the additional benefits of a cleaner environment and more secure sources of energy.

Total aside, anyone who can find a poetry blog from 2001 called "Someplace Nice" gets a cookie.