Tuesday, December 1, 2009

Use the New Cap & Trade Video to Spark Inquiry & Critical Thinking

One of the most common phrases associated with global warming legislation and policy is "cap and trade." But understanding what exactly that means and how effective a strategy it may (or may not) be in addressing climate change challenges has thus far been primarily for the truly dedicated.

The creators of the wildly popular The Story of Stuff have developed a 10 minute video called The Story of Cap & Trade, which outlines the primary concepts of the strategy proposed for dealing with carbon emissions and why (according to Annie Leonard), it's not such a good idea.

In addition to the video itself, the website also offers FAQs, a transcript of the video text and information, and resources for taking positive action.

The video has been out less than 24 hours, and it is already drawing criticism, including from environmental bloggers such as Dave Roberts from Grist.

Take the humane education path here. See the video and check out some of the resources, then read some of the critiques, such as Dave's, and then go digging around yourself to find out more information from a variety of credible sources. Use your best critical thinking skills to discern what's accurate and what choices will do the most good and least harm for all concerned. Then find a way to take positive action.

~ Marsha

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2 comments:

Canada Guy said...

Cap and Trade schemes are ineffective, counterproductive, and environmentally damaging, while carbon offsets are an out and out fraud. If we absolutely have to use cap and trade, however, there are some changes we can make to ensure we can still get some benefit from it.

http://www.selfdestructivebastards.com/2009/12/cap-trade-and-offset.html

IHE Staff said...

Thanks, Canada Guy, for your comments & for the suggestions in your post. It's such a complex issue, with no easy answers. But, certainly, it will take both personal lifestyle changes, as well as major systemic changes, to bring about the world we want (and need).

Peace,

Marsha