
Perhaps more subtly, but no less importantly, recognizing that the problem extends beyond one particular solution gives the proper scope to what needs to be done. If we are truly going to reorient our economy to deliver better results to the next generation, it must be all of that generation, and it must find a place for everyone today in the transition.
As FDR famously said in his inauguration outlining the promise of the New Deal, “nameless, unreasoning, unjustified terror which paralyzes needed efforts to convert retreat into advance,” — no nameless threat is greater than climate change. There are plenty of jobs to go around in the new energy economy and thoughtful policy can make sure everyone, whether rural or urban, in services or manufacturing, in farming or mining, can see a prosperous future for themselves as we make this transition, and follow in the footsteps of FDR.
Mike Carr is executive director of New Energy America. He previously served as principal deputy assistant secretary for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, and as senior counsel on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee.