For healthier climate

The Republican Party has come a long way in the fight against climate change over the last decade—but there’s still work to be done. Whether we call it climate change or global warming or unusual weather, conservatives as a whole should be steering the climate discussion, as it aligns closely with our values.

Economically, our state and country would greatly benefit from clean-energy jobs. Arkansas is the Natural State—as such, we have a plethora of sunshine, wind, and rushing water, in addition to a nuclear power plant in Russellville—all of which provide an environmentally friendly alternative to fossil fuels. Solar, wind, and hydropower can’t be moved out of state as they’re naturally occurring—that means these jobs would stay in state.

Conservatives are proud of being lawful. We believe that people who do wrong should be held accountable. In spite of the price tag for the reconciliation process, proposed policies like a carbon price would hold polluters responsible for their actions, while returning a dividend to American households.

Many conservatives are religious. Whether it’s cleaning your yard or urging members of Congress to pass legislation, taking care of the environment is one of many ways that we care for God’s creation.

Conservatives love small government. Being environmentally friendly doesn’t require big government’s guidance—President Ronald Reagan proved this with his “citizens first” approach to environmental preservation.

The image of the American outdoorsman is dying. With him, he takes hunting and fishing opportunities, outdoor sports, national parks, forests, and farmland—things that conservatives have always held dear.

If we want to preserve the Republican Party of tomorrow, it’s crucial that we make a healthier climate the focus of conservatism today.

KATIE ZAKRZEWSKI

North Little Rock