Now, that work can – and must – go further and faster. With emissions increasing, temperatures rising, and disasters mounting, there’s not a moment to waste. Many practical steps can be taken quickly, from capping abandoned wells in Texas that spew methane to passing permitting reform that accelerates the energy transition. But other, more systemic changes must happen, too.
First and foremost, those elected up and down the ballot must restore the role of science in decision-making. Science is no longer confined to only outlining the consequences of climate change; it can actively guide what solutions, deployed when and where, can have the greatest impact.
Second, our political leaders – and often those working in climate more broadly – need to “see the whole board” when it comes to climate change. If we continue to focus narrowly on energy instead of also addressing emissions from our food systems, industries, landfills, and more, we’ll end up with abundant power on a much more volatile, dangerous, and depleted planet.
Lastly, our political leaders must end the climate hushing and explicitly name climate change for what it is: yes, an existential threat, but also a generational opportunity to build a country we’re proud to pass along to our children and grandchildren.
This week, voters spoke loud and clear. Tomorrow we roll up our sleeves and redouble our efforts to stop climate change and, in the process, create an America – and world – where all of us can thrive together.
Onward,
Jonathan Foley, Ph.D.
Project Drawdown Executive Director
About Jonathan Foley, Ph.D.
Jonathan Foley, Ph.D., is a climate scientist and the Executive Director of Project Drawdown, the world’s leading resource for climate solutions. These views are his own.
About Project Drawdown
Project Drawdown is the world’s leading guide to science-based climate solutions. Our mission is to drive meaningful climate action around the world. A 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, Project Drawdown is funded by individual and institutional donations.
This work is published under a Creative Commons CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 license. You are welcome to republish it following the license terms.
