The weather is changing, everyone do something

USA TODAY’s editorial “Long, hot, soggy

summer” acknowledges the scientific consensus on the need to quickly and significantly reduce emissions of greenhouse gases. Former secretary of State George Shultz proposed a market-based alternative to deal with carbon emissions — a carbon fee and dividend. Levy a steadily rising fee on carbon producers and refund the money to American households. This sends a clear market signal that carbon intensive products will be more expensive in the future, so it shifts investment toward renewable alternatives. Because all the revenue from the fee goes back to Americans, government doesn’t grow. And according to economic modeling studies, the stimulus from the dividend grows the economy and reduces the U.S. climate footprint. Search for “CCL carbon fee and dividend” for details. Tom Probasco Indianapolis

I object to “Today’s weather is hardly

unique” opposing view in USA TODAY because it gives the impression that the topic is debatable. Climate change is a matter for scientific analysis. Although some would prefer to make it a political issue, the overwhelming scientific consensus is that climate change is real and is caused fundamentally (if not exclusively) by human activity. It’s not a matter of opinion or an issue for debate — unless you want to debate the rate of change. John Lehrer Apple Valley, Calif. YOUTOON CONTEST FACEBOOK.COM/USATODAYOPINION

Congratulations to Tracy Weidner of Beverly Hills! She’s the winner of August’s YouToon Caption Contest! Weidner will receive a copy of the cartoon signed by the artist and valued at $250! MIKE SMITH AND TRACY WEIDNER