Observer-Dispatch
Thank you for reporting on climate change
I want to thank the Observer-Dispatch for its continued coverage of the response to climate change. I was particularly happy to see that much of your latest article, “Cuomo doubles down on green energy projects,” (O-D Jan. 19) was dedicated to the infrastructure projects that will create for New York State a green “energy superhighway.”
This type of reporting is essential. While projects like energy transmission lines are not “sexy,” they build the conditions for all the fascinating green technologies that do attract attention: installations of towering futuristic windmills and swoopy new electric vehicles. In addition, infrastructure investments produce more local jobs than subsidies for electric vehicles and solar panels. Subsidies are important, but part of that investment goes to manufacturers (of solar panels or electric vehicles) outside of the state and sometimes the country. Most importantly, infrastructure projects show people that tackling climate change isn’t about taking things away from people, eliminating jobs, or hamstringing the economy, but just the opposite: they bring new economic possibilities in the form of new products, jobs, and increasing prosperity. It’s great that Governor Cuomo understands this, but even better that your reporting rightly represents the economic benefits of finally addressing climate change.