We Need Direct Action to Reverse Global Warming

Bush in this SOTU speech gives lip service to global “climate change” but the majority of the ways he suggests, CO2 is still produced. Clean coal, diesel, domestic oil, ethanol, and biodiesel all produce CO2. The goal to reduce our reliance on Middle East oil is laudable and desirable but why not go all the way and go towards non-CO2 producing alternatives? And don’t get me started on how anyone has the nerve to discuss nuclear without handling the waste issue! I’ve been waiting all my life for that promised “we’ll figure it out later” promise!

. . . It is in our vital interest to diversify America’s energy supply — and the way forward is through technology. We must continue changing the way America generates electric power — by even greater use of clean coal technology … solar and wind energy … and clean, safe nuclear power. We need to press on with battery research for plug-in and hybrid vehicles, and expand the use of clean diesel vehicles and biodiesel fuel. We must continue investing in new methods of producing ethanol — using everything from wood chips, to grasses, to agricultural wastes.

. . .

Achieving these ambitious goals will dramatically reduce our dependence on foreign oil, but will not eliminate it. So as we continue to diversify our fuel supply, we must also step up domestic oil production in environmentally sensitive ways. . .

America is on the verge of technological breakthroughs that will enable us to live our lives less dependent on oil. These technologies will help us become better stewards of the environment — and they will help us to confront the serious challenge of global climate change.

Emphasis mine.