Thank you, Mr. Bloomberg!!
30
I have heard the same optimistic thoughts from top people in the field. Mr. Bloomberg is now carrying the message to the people, and asserting once again that knowledge and hope can vanquish fear. Thank you, sir.
29
with the exception of his leftist homage to the climate change fanatics, michael bloomberg was the finest mayor new york city will ever have.
mr. bloomberg, do you really have an objection to the RWE modern coal-burning plants that germany has perfected? i know you know better.
mr. bloomberg, do you really have an objection to the RWE modern coal-burning plants that germany has perfected? i know you know better.
5
Thanks for trying to cheer us up Candide but we have a mass psychosis of denialism amongst those in charge and while they won't bring coal back they are hell bent on raising oil consumption, oil prices and global temperatures. RESIST!
1
Thank you Mayor Bloomberg. Can't you have lunch with voldermont soon and read this to him ? You give me some encouragement but the leadership still embarrasses us all and weakens others perceptions of America around the world . Sad
18
#Bloomberg2021
12
The blame for the current woes of the countray is on the Election Mechanism set up where ignorant and lazy people are allowed to elect one among them. Blaming Trump is not the issue - the approach would be to look at the election issue in a holistic manner. The country has changed - ignorami are allowed to elect an nincompoop due to the idiocy of the electoral college. Till this problem is resolved there will another idiot who will drag this country down as long as other idiots can vote to elect the person.
1
"...underestimating the role that cities, states, businesses and consumers are playing in driving down emissions on their own."
Mr. Bloomberg is correct that progressive cities & states (primarily in blue geography) and activism of the citizenry will continue to play good role towards progress on preservation of climate.
Businesses???
I am not so sure. I have yet to hear of CEOs collectively decrying Trump's completely ignorant (and hence moronic) stance against climatic or energy preserving laws. No one has told the WH, law makers or general public that despite easing of the regulations, they will continue to abide by laws that were put in place towards safeguarding the planet and its people.
Pardon my cynicism, but I do not have faith in profit minded corporate executives, with perhaps rare few exceptions, that they will put their customers, general public and planet above their profits and pay packages.
The responsibility to boycott products and services benefiting from damaging laws and executive orders, and thus forcing CEOs to rethink their obligations, will once again fall on citizens and their activism.
Mr. Bloomberg is correct that progressive cities & states (primarily in blue geography) and activism of the citizenry will continue to play good role towards progress on preservation of climate.
Businesses???
I am not so sure. I have yet to hear of CEOs collectively decrying Trump's completely ignorant (and hence moronic) stance against climatic or energy preserving laws. No one has told the WH, law makers or general public that despite easing of the regulations, they will continue to abide by laws that were put in place towards safeguarding the planet and its people.
Pardon my cynicism, but I do not have faith in profit minded corporate executives, with perhaps rare few exceptions, that they will put their customers, general public and planet above their profits and pay packages.
The responsibility to boycott products and services benefiting from damaging laws and executive orders, and thus forcing CEOs to rethink their obligations, will once again fall on citizens and their activism.
11
Re: "The average cost of wind power has dropped to $20 per megawatt, ... " That's not right. Maybe you meant $20 per megawatt-hour. Even if the number is right, the units are wrong. It's like saying that the distance from New York to Boston is 190 miles per hour. Who cares? Well, people who have some understanding of math and science, and are able to understand and appreciate a good quantitative argument. When we see a glaring error like this, we can't help but wonder what else you got wrong. Maybe your conclusions are wrong. Errors like this harm the credibility of the author, just like grammatical errors.
8
I would heartily disagree with the argument that America has shown "leadership on climate change" in the past on this issue. For decades, many European and Asian nations imposed very large energy taxes on petroleum, for example, in order to insulate their economies from gasoline's price volatility. By decreasing their dependence on imported petroleum via a price signaling mechanism that more fairly priced its externalities or pollution; many of these countries gained a degree of economic independence from especially upward price spikes, that was not shared with the US.
The proceeds from these gas taxes were partially invested in alternative energy research which helped to fund improvements in wind power applications that have driven "the average cost of wind power" lower, "to $20 per megawatt" in comparison to the "more than $30 cost for megawatt for electricity from many coal plants" in the Midwest, as an example.
The US, as a nation, seems to have engaged in free riding to benefit from the research funded by the higher national gas taxes imposed by these other nations.
Also, the in the US, questionable nuclear power investments in Georgia and South Carolina are holdovers from the George Bush Jr. administration. These newer nuclear plants, as construction-in-progress, are significantly behind schedule and Toshiba's Westinghouse division, in charge of nuclear plant contracting, recently filed for a Chapter 11 bankruptcy.
[03/31/2017 F 11:49a Greenville NC]
The proceeds from these gas taxes were partially invested in alternative energy research which helped to fund improvements in wind power applications that have driven "the average cost of wind power" lower, "to $20 per megawatt" in comparison to the "more than $30 cost for megawatt for electricity from many coal plants" in the Midwest, as an example.
The US, as a nation, seems to have engaged in free riding to benefit from the research funded by the higher national gas taxes imposed by these other nations.
Also, the in the US, questionable nuclear power investments in Georgia and South Carolina are holdovers from the George Bush Jr. administration. These newer nuclear plants, as construction-in-progress, are significantly behind schedule and Toshiba's Westinghouse division, in charge of nuclear plant contracting, recently filed for a Chapter 11 bankruptcy.
[03/31/2017 F 11:49a Greenville NC]
9
This column addresses the reality of enlightened self interest whereas Mr Trump represents the branch of our culture, some of it also very wealthy, which has no idea of what enlightenment means, let alone how to employ it.
Huff and puff as much as he wants there is no there, there.
Huff and puff as much as he wants there is no there, there.
10
I fear Mr. Bloomberg overestimates the capabilities of the states, the Democratic Party, & environmental advocates in general to slow/halt the GOP animosity in Statehouses, as well as the anti-science faction in the majority in the US Congress. The poor, benighted voters in the "flyover states" are desperate for reassurance that they have not been relegated to irrelevant lives with limited education & business opportunities.
GOP Conservatives have been baking them delicious-sounding, tempting social recipes & economic treats for 35+ years to lure them into the Republican "Gingerbread House". By riding the coattails of a populist President (elected by people who were unwittingly influenced by a campaign of misinformation/disinformation to unconsciously vote against their own self-interest), the most extreme factions in the GOP are now ready to close the oven door on those beleaguered citizens & our Nation as a whole.
If the voters do not rise up to throw the GOP into their own oven, & follow whatever clubs are left on the path back to rationality (& science), I'm afraid the working class Hansels & Gretels, as well as our Republic, will be eaten alive by Drumpf, Ryan, McConnell & their minions.
GOP Conservatives have been baking them delicious-sounding, tempting social recipes & economic treats for 35+ years to lure them into the Republican "Gingerbread House". By riding the coattails of a populist President (elected by people who were unwittingly influenced by a campaign of misinformation/disinformation to unconsciously vote against their own self-interest), the most extreme factions in the GOP are now ready to close the oven door on those beleaguered citizens & our Nation as a whole.
If the voters do not rise up to throw the GOP into their own oven, & follow whatever clubs are left on the path back to rationality (& science), I'm afraid the working class Hansels & Gretels, as well as our Republic, will be eaten alive by Drumpf, Ryan, McConnell & their minions.
14
Thank you, Mr. Bloomberg. I appreciate the vitally important issue of your article, not to mention the direct, clear, cohesive and calm tone in which it is presented, especially by someone who has a lot of authority. It's a relief, all around.
1
Thanks for the encouraging words, Mr Mayor!
And to all readers: stay informed and TALK about climate change and the progress made in your town & neighborhood. A recent NY Times article astonishingly found that most Americans are not even talking about the greatest threat to our future. This must change!
And to all readers: stay informed and TALK about climate change and the progress made in your town & neighborhood. A recent NY Times article astonishingly found that most Americans are not even talking about the greatest threat to our future. This must change!
10
Mike Bloomberg is an example of someone who got rich because he is actually smart and capable of deep thinking. Unlike the guy in the White House who claims "I am, like, really smart."
This is another excellent piece of insightful writing by Bloomberg. We need people like Bloomberg and Gates running for President.
This is another excellent piece of insightful writing by Bloomberg. We need people like Bloomberg and Gates running for President.
14
Thanks, Michael. I needed this message of hope in such depressing times. Only wish you were our President.
12
With his predilection for weekend flights to the Caribbean while he was mayor of New York City, Michael Bloomberg has about as much moral authority to be a leader on climate change as he does to claim his other self-assumed mantle as champion of the Jewish people, what with his predilection for peanut butter and bacon sandwiches (I kid you not).
The best I can say is, unlike Donald Trump, at least Mr. Bloomberg is on the right side of this debate, just as, unlike Donald Trump, at least we know he's a real billionaire.
The best I can say is, unlike Donald Trump, at least Mr. Bloomberg is on the right side of this debate, just as, unlike Donald Trump, at least we know he's a real billionaire.
5
Thank you, Mr. Bloomberg, for giving us something hopeful on which to focus. No doubt many of us had no idea of the positive statistics you have presented. And, as an early investor in Danish windmill technology, thank you for supporting alternative energy sources.
4
Thank you Mr. Bloomberg for a voice of calm and reason in these hyperventilating times. Please think about 2020?
6
Great column Mr. Bloomberg. Have you ever thought of running for President?
If Donald Trump told you to go jump in the lake, would you do it?
If he tells you to go ahead and poison the world. would you do that too?
If he tells you to go ahead and poison the world. would you do that too?
2
Thank you thank you, Michael Bloomberg. A lovely and hopeful voice of reason in a nation in a death spiral with a BBIO (blundering boob in office).
4
I bet I'm not the only person who, a few years back, decided to invest in a couple of utilities that were heavily investing in wind power.
I bet I'm not, I know I'm not, the only person who 11 years ago purchased a hybrid vehicle.
Millions of us, probably billions of us, make small, daily decisions in view of climate change or over-population.
Thanks to Michael Bloomberg for this optimistic Op-Ed. Too bad he's not our "businessman" president!
I bet I'm not, I know I'm not, the only person who 11 years ago purchased a hybrid vehicle.
Millions of us, probably billions of us, make small, daily decisions in view of climate change or over-population.
Thanks to Michael Bloomberg for this optimistic Op-Ed. Too bad he's not our "businessman" president!
1
Thanks, Mr. Mike, you are the best!
The world's reaction to the Trump Clean Power action said it all...oh hum..funny to end up with a dowdy and irrelevant buggy-whip booster as President. An embarrassing uncle to be ushered out at an appropriate time.
President Trump dresses like it's the 1950s because he wants the 50s back. Imaginary good old days when borders were sealed, Republicans were republicans, hospital ERs were crowded with sick uninsured, "job-killing (and people protecting) regulations" were kept at bay, foreigners were not people, just foreigners, and generic white American Dads lugged lunch pails to some factory someplace between New York and California...to make some kinda gadgets.
I can't wait till the president gets to infrastructure. Now, everyone agrees we need infrastructure....cause it's such a vague all-encompassing concept...Trump will for sure turn it into some 1950s big-highway thing that is his vision (and nobody else's) of manly infrastructure.
The world's reaction to the Trump Clean Power action said it all...oh hum..funny to end up with a dowdy and irrelevant buggy-whip booster as President. An embarrassing uncle to be ushered out at an appropriate time.
President Trump dresses like it's the 1950s because he wants the 50s back. Imaginary good old days when borders were sealed, Republicans were republicans, hospital ERs were crowded with sick uninsured, "job-killing (and people protecting) regulations" were kept at bay, foreigners were not people, just foreigners, and generic white American Dads lugged lunch pails to some factory someplace between New York and California...to make some kinda gadgets.
I can't wait till the president gets to infrastructure. Now, everyone agrees we need infrastructure....cause it's such a vague all-encompassing concept...Trump will for sure turn it into some 1950s big-highway thing that is his vision (and nobody else's) of manly infrastructure.
3
Thank you, Mr. Bloomberg, for the encouraging words. I still see the glass as half-full. The world will have to exceed the Paris accord someday to save the planet. And it's great that we're likely to meet our commitment. But imagine how much farther we could go if the country could unite around fighting global climate change instead of fighting it for short-term political and personal gain. That's why Trump and the Congress are so disappointing to me.
5
Of course, the Federal government isn't all powerful. But more than half the states are run by GOP troglodytes. To fix that we need to uproot the GOP, state by state. It's the work of decades.
7
I hope that this is correct, and that this op-ed is available in the CHINESE version of nytimes.com!
5
Mayor, you wrote the whole column without even once mentioning Bernie Sanders and Liz Warren, who speak to the soul of the country. Talk to the Native Americans from whom you inherited this country. Talk to the Elders, seek their forgiveness, seek their blessings and then go forth with Climate Progress.
2
Finally - intelligent, realistic, rational analysis from the person who should have been elected President. oh well.... a better read than Krugman's ..
Great Piece Mr. Bloomberg, but let's get the units right. Electricity is measured in megawatthour (i.e. electrical power multiplied by the duration of its use), not in "megawatt". Megawatts refer to "installed power". I would love to have my own powerplant for $20 (or even $30) per megawatt, considering a full fledged power plant serving an entire city would then cost about $30,000 (i.e. a 1 gigawatt = 1000 megawatt facility).
I am asking because there is already enough ignorance about energy and the way it is produced and measured. No need to contribute more to that.
I am asking because there is already enough ignorance about energy and the way it is produced and measured. No need to contribute more to that.
5
Thanks Michael for pointing out the innate intelligence of American citizens who hope that their children will live in better conditions than many cities in China.
1
I see my neighbors drive off to work by themselves in giant gas- or diesel-powered pickups that are nothing but huge luxury vehicles which will never haul a wheelbarrow or shovel. More people I know send their kids to private schools, and have to drive their kids to school every morning and pick them up every afternoon--in a giant Denali Yukon XL. The yard maintenance workers use big gas-powered mowers, and worse, push yard debris or leaves into the street with two-cycle, gas-and-oil-powered leaf blowers rather than rake up the leaves so they don't blow back in the yard, and they do it all over again next week. Everyone fertilizes their grass and has herbicide sprayed to keep their football-field-perfect fescue lawns green and beautiful. I see lawn-sprinkler systems watering during and after rain storms at homes and businesses--and municipal water is no longer cheap. There are still no restrictions on drilling a water well for water to use in a lawn-sprinkler system. No one dries their clothes on a line regardless of how nice the weather--electric dryer only. Houses now have two or even three separate HVAC zones, with the same number of paired HVAC furnaces/AC compressors. The newer model HVAC units have fans that run all the time for even temps. We are told they are more efficient but every time I put in a replacement unit my electric bill goes up (and I have replaced all bulbs with LEDs--no difference).
In
In
1
You would think the free market gurus in the White House ought to know individuals and companies will buy commodities from the cheapest source. No amount of wishful thinking will stop the economically driven shift to cheaper sources of electricity. There are great fortunes to be made in the solar business - this so-called policy does nothing to increase America's share of that pie. I agree with Bloomberg that the government has next to no ability to stop the shift, so this order is just another blast of fluff from Trump.
4
We as a nation will succeed with or without trump and the Republican congress. I see much evidence of this here in my hometown of Seatle with a huge commitment to public transportation, bike lanes and decreasing downtown available parking.
6
"Don't overestimate Washington's ability to influence energy markets, or the role of cities, states, businesses and consumers in cutting emissions." These are all completely secondary to the current Sun Cycle.
Trump and the vast majority of the republican party leaders do everything they can in order is enrich themselves and the polluters that support them by any means possible. They could not care less about destroying our planet and every form of life on it while doing it.
Somehow, they think that they can isolate themselves from the destruction their greed causes in the world. Apparently, if you are a republican or a conservative, you do not get affected by pollution, lack of clean air, mercury in the water, rising temperatures and sea levels. Caring about the world they will leave their children and their grandchildren in certainly on their agenda.
Somehow, they think that they can isolate themselves from the destruction their greed causes in the world. Apparently, if you are a republican or a conservative, you do not get affected by pollution, lack of clean air, mercury in the water, rising temperatures and sea levels. Caring about the world they will leave their children and their grandchildren in certainly on their agenda.
5
It's not about red or blue states. It's about green states!
5
Energy markets are influenced by many factors, and some very much controlled by Washington: taxes, fees for leases and mineral rights, regulations like environmental controls, and production and shipping safety.
Cost advantages are net of those extra costs that come from Washington.
They are further distorted by unequal treatment of differing energy sources by Washington, as some are favored and some burdened, some more free and some more controlled.
Extreme examples are Washington clearing the way and financing the Tennessee Valley Authority electrification, and Washington allowing mountaintop removal mining and dumping, and Washington protecting fracking from water pollution concerns.
Our energy is shaped by policy. Those who deny that are ignoring all the powerful policy choices that shape it. Costs are the mechanism, not the underlying reason. Availability is defined by policy choices.
Worse, they assume continued favoritism of old ideas, and nothing to promote new ideas. They protect oil and coal, while they refuse to help solar and wind and more efficient long distance transfer of electric energy and local sourcing of renewables to limit transmission costs.
It is like we pay for highways but not rails, then compare trucking costs of roads that come free with rail costs of road that are paid for by those trains. Apples and oranges. It is the same with energy.
If those authoring such opinions really did not know they are doing that, they'd only be stupid.
Cost advantages are net of those extra costs that come from Washington.
They are further distorted by unequal treatment of differing energy sources by Washington, as some are favored and some burdened, some more free and some more controlled.
Extreme examples are Washington clearing the way and financing the Tennessee Valley Authority electrification, and Washington allowing mountaintop removal mining and dumping, and Washington protecting fracking from water pollution concerns.
Our energy is shaped by policy. Those who deny that are ignoring all the powerful policy choices that shape it. Costs are the mechanism, not the underlying reason. Availability is defined by policy choices.
Worse, they assume continued favoritism of old ideas, and nothing to promote new ideas. They protect oil and coal, while they refuse to help solar and wind and more efficient long distance transfer of electric energy and local sourcing of renewables to limit transmission costs.
It is like we pay for highways but not rails, then compare trucking costs of roads that come free with rail costs of road that are paid for by those trains. Apples and oranges. It is the same with energy.
If those authoring such opinions really did not know they are doing that, they'd only be stupid.
4
As a freshman of the University of Arizona, admittedly I am by no means a qualified source in terms of environmental protection, the most efficient fuel sources, and to be completely honest I had to google what the Paris Climate Change Agreement was. With that being said, I care about the well being of the earth not only for economic reasons, but because I hope my future children also have the opportunity one day to experience and enjoy the world in all it's wonder.
Kathleen Dean Moore, a renown philosopher, environmentalist and author, wrote quite simply, "Climate change is poised to become the most massive human rights violation the world has ever seen." Thus, I think it is natural and even encouraged for the general public to be concerned with the polices their political leaders make in office, especially when a business man like Trump is focused primarily on economics and is willing to take whatever means necessary to profit. I am proud of the nation's general growing concern for the environment and applaud mayors across the nation who are determined to make a change locally. However, for dramatic change to truly be implemented on a national level, I believe the federal government needs to take an active role in leading.
Kathleen Dean Moore, a renown philosopher, environmentalist and author, wrote quite simply, "Climate change is poised to become the most massive human rights violation the world has ever seen." Thus, I think it is natural and even encouraged for the general public to be concerned with the polices their political leaders make in office, especially when a business man like Trump is focused primarily on economics and is willing to take whatever means necessary to profit. I am proud of the nation's general growing concern for the environment and applaud mayors across the nation who are determined to make a change locally. However, for dramatic change to truly be implemented on a national level, I believe the federal government needs to take an active role in leading.
28
Michael, enlightened and programmatic leader like you should have been the president instead of the one that we have today who has no idea about technology and the forces that are disrupting the world.
13
Bloomberg should start the groundwork for presidential run now. The job maybe available sooner then expected.
13
If consumers/voters are to play the key role in transitioning our society & economy to clean, renewable energy and sustainability, we need to know which utility companies are sticking to dirty coal and which companies are using sustainable practices. If Trump and right-wing Republicans are saying that only free market and not government acting for the public good are empowered to drive this change, we need leverage to drive the “threshold” in favor of clean, renewable energy. Hundreds of thousands of people are already employed in clean, renewable energy industry, which is the new frontier of innovation. If Trump and the Kochs would have their way, we would go back to whale oil to light city streets.
7
In many states, consumers are able to select the provider of their electricity. The traditional utility (ConEd for you, ComEd for me) still delivers power to your house, but you pick generation.
I was able to select a company that sources from 100% renewable. In my part of the country, that's 99% wind power. In NY it would probably be a more varied mix.
I was able to select a company that sources from 100% renewable. In my part of the country, that's 99% wind power. In NY it would probably be a more varied mix.
3
Its all about the tax breaks, do they go to Exxon-Mobile or Tri-State Biodiesel? Do they go to the coal industry or to solar power?
5
Well, there's tax breaks, but there are also write-offs for exploration. There's the need to review the federal leasing program, particularly for coal. The BLM planned a review to make sure coal companies are paying taxpayers a fair return - and indications that they were using some loopholes to boost their own profits. Things like selling the coal to a subsidiary cheap, figuring our royalties based on that price, then selling it for more on the market.
1
If progress will occur regardless of the 'roadblocks' that Trump sets up, then that proves the EPA, Paris, et al are unnecessary. I agree that actual progress comes from people & businesses having good ideas and implementing them, not legislation, and the two are independent.
If people have to develop good ideas, and if they will implement them regardless of govt, and that is still true even if govt mandates them, then why waste taxpayer money on organizations and programs that consequently aren't necessary?
It thus should be concluded that we, as people but especially do-called news, need to get busy living our lives the best we can and get off the political whining circuit.
If people have to develop good ideas, and if they will implement them regardless of govt, and that is still true even if govt mandates them, then why waste taxpayer money on organizations and programs that consequently aren't necessary?
It thus should be concluded that we, as people but especially do-called news, need to get busy living our lives the best we can and get off the political whining circuit.
1
Yes to all that, but do not forget that the present administration has taken significant steps to rob states and municipalities of their sovereignty and to deny Americans the right to know the consequences, not always obvious, of industry-generated pollution. It is this descending cloud of ignorance that is the real threat.
66
He may try to rob sovereignty. But he can't change the constitution and already decided precedents. Thank goodness!
1
I haven't read this yet but, hey, what a great illustration.
Kudos Mikey Burton.
Kudos Mikey Burton.
10
My thoughts exactly. The article is good, too!
Science, aka reality, tells us the time for argument is over. Ask what you can do for you country, Wall Street? Go all in. There is no easy, lazy, painless way out of the mess we've made, we need to clean up after ourselves.
Bloomberg is right about market forces and the shift from coal, but the three government actions needed to greatly reduce the US outsize carbon footprint are carbon tax, cap and trade, and turning to green fuel sources. About the first two Trump and the Republicans would rather cut off their own arms. Wall Street and Congress may talk a big game about American ingenuity, but why don't they trust the free market system's ingenuity enough to do the hard thing? We must place in Earth-saving rules that would require us to roll up our sleeves and mobilize that ingenuity to create a sustainable future for all life forms. Turning from coal is good, but doesn't do nearly enough. And fracking for cleaner fuel, in which Bloomberg is heavily invested, is no answer. It poisons water supplies and the stability of the very ground we walk on.
Bloomberg is right about market forces and the shift from coal, but the three government actions needed to greatly reduce the US outsize carbon footprint are carbon tax, cap and trade, and turning to green fuel sources. About the first two Trump and the Republicans would rather cut off their own arms. Wall Street and Congress may talk a big game about American ingenuity, but why don't they trust the free market system's ingenuity enough to do the hard thing? We must place in Earth-saving rules that would require us to roll up our sleeves and mobilize that ingenuity to create a sustainable future for all life forms. Turning from coal is good, but doesn't do nearly enough. And fracking for cleaner fuel, in which Bloomberg is heavily invested, is no answer. It poisons water supplies and the stability of the very ground we walk on.
3
I spend a great deal of time building instruments to find microbial life in strange, difficult environments on Earth and other planets - Antarctica, Mojave desert, Australian outback, Mars, etc. There are some tricky things about life surviving on a planet. Changing global temperature can be bad for one species (us) and great for other species such as certain types of bacteria and viruses. In like fashion overgrowth and diminished resistance to infection in one species usually means it will be replaced by other "upstart" species.
Human induced global warming (HIGW) is not occurring in isolation. It has two colleagues - overpopulation of the planet by humanity and, because of drought and agricultural failure due to HIGW, decreasing ability for starving children and adults to fight bacterial and viral infection by microbes resistant to antibiotic and antiviral agents.
The triad of HIGW, overpopulation, and increasing prevalence of antimicrobial resistant microorganisms can pose a significant threat for global pandemics.
Finally, the catastrophic collapse of the Great Barrier Reef implies that our oceanic buffering system is collapsing and can no longer help protect us from rising carbon dioxide levels.
Historically, Nature has usually found a way to balance things out. Let's hope your optimism is well-founded, Mr. Bloomberg. But time is probably running out. I don't want Earth to look like Venus, a sterile scorched hulk of a planet, within my child's lifetime.
Human induced global warming (HIGW) is not occurring in isolation. It has two colleagues - overpopulation of the planet by humanity and, because of drought and agricultural failure due to HIGW, decreasing ability for starving children and adults to fight bacterial and viral infection by microbes resistant to antibiotic and antiviral agents.
The triad of HIGW, overpopulation, and increasing prevalence of antimicrobial resistant microorganisms can pose a significant threat for global pandemics.
Finally, the catastrophic collapse of the Great Barrier Reef implies that our oceanic buffering system is collapsing and can no longer help protect us from rising carbon dioxide levels.
Historically, Nature has usually found a way to balance things out. Let's hope your optimism is well-founded, Mr. Bloomberg. But time is probably running out. I don't want Earth to look like Venus, a sterile scorched hulk of a planet, within my child's lifetime.
6
Bloomberg is on-target. New science will accelerate the process.
24/7 solar powered, engines, capable of replacing fossil fuels are in development. They will replace conventional power plants, as they can scale to large sizes.
Eventually cluster of engines at utility sub-stations can replace wind farms & solar farms.
To the surprise of almost everyone, engines can run 24/7 on ambient heat, a huge untapped reservoir of Solar Energy, larger than Earth’s fossil fuel reserves. A Ford engine conversion proved the concept. See aesopinstitute.org
“The thermal energy content of the atmosphere, ocean, and upper crust is estimated to be more than 10,000 times that of the world's fossil fuel reserves, making it a potentially inexhaustible reservoir of green energy." Prof. Daniel Sheehan, University of San Diego
Most parts can be 3-D printed. Since there is no combustion, polymers (plastics) can be used to make many components.
They will create no chemical emissions and will cool the surrounding area. Contrast with carbon dioxide and heat produced by combustion engines.
Solar powered engines – once verified by an independent laboratory – will be produced using 3-D printing.
Rants by an anonymous individual posing as a (fake) Physics Board uses some truth mixed with blatant lies and distortions, to deflect support for new science, which is traditionally slow to gain acceptance.
Inexpensive engines running 24/7 on ambient heat can soon become as common as solar panels.
24/7 solar powered, engines, capable of replacing fossil fuels are in development. They will replace conventional power plants, as they can scale to large sizes.
Eventually cluster of engines at utility sub-stations can replace wind farms & solar farms.
To the surprise of almost everyone, engines can run 24/7 on ambient heat, a huge untapped reservoir of Solar Energy, larger than Earth’s fossil fuel reserves. A Ford engine conversion proved the concept. See aesopinstitute.org
“The thermal energy content of the atmosphere, ocean, and upper crust is estimated to be more than 10,000 times that of the world's fossil fuel reserves, making it a potentially inexhaustible reservoir of green energy." Prof. Daniel Sheehan, University of San Diego
Most parts can be 3-D printed. Since there is no combustion, polymers (plastics) can be used to make many components.
They will create no chemical emissions and will cool the surrounding area. Contrast with carbon dioxide and heat produced by combustion engines.
Solar powered engines – once verified by an independent laboratory – will be produced using 3-D printing.
Rants by an anonymous individual posing as a (fake) Physics Board uses some truth mixed with blatant lies and distortions, to deflect support for new science, which is traditionally slow to gain acceptance.
Inexpensive engines running 24/7 on ambient heat can soon become as common as solar panels.
3
You trot out amazing inventions with some regularity, and always that just need that little bit of someone else's money to turn them into a gold mine.
New science is slow to gain acceptance because scientists check evidence. But you are pushing engineering marvels, and if they work in the real world, acceptance is rapid - if they work. Where's that Ford engine? Show us the reports from testing by established, independent labs.
New science is slow to gain acceptance because scientists check evidence. But you are pushing engineering marvels, and if they work in the real world, acceptance is rapid - if they work. Where's that Ford engine? Show us the reports from testing by established, independent labs.
1
"America's leadership" since when? The US is way behind truly developed countries (as opposed to simply rich) in most environmental issues. The sheer number of useless plastic packages and the lack of recycling and/or recycling culture in states like Texas is shameful. Less patriotism, more reality please.
4
Thank you, Mayor Mike! I needed to hear that in addition to destroying our country, Trump won't be able to destroy the entire planet along with it. Clean coal is an oxymoron.
6
Thanks, I needed that.
That's also a great illustration accompanying the piece.
In the late 60s and early 70s there was a lot of talk about how quickly science and technology had changed and were changing the way we lived our lives and how our various human institutions were struggling to keep up.
If we've just about figured out, here in America, mechanisms and institutions outside of the federal government to do our part in addressing the climate change emergency without wrenching disruptions, that's great.
Taking a very broad view, I don't have a firm and confident grip on what the greater purposes of human life might be and on just how any one of us should go about developing whatever greater possibilities we might have. I'm swimming in the same stream with everyone else.
But whatever the answers to those overarching questions might be, I'd stop and think awhile if my job or avocation were to help exploit, for temporal personal gain, our divisions and confusions about how to live our lives together. Anyone, including me, who weighs in on these matters needs to do so with honesty and sincerity and something like religious humility I would think.
That's also a great illustration accompanying the piece.
In the late 60s and early 70s there was a lot of talk about how quickly science and technology had changed and were changing the way we lived our lives and how our various human institutions were struggling to keep up.
If we've just about figured out, here in America, mechanisms and institutions outside of the federal government to do our part in addressing the climate change emergency without wrenching disruptions, that's great.
Taking a very broad view, I don't have a firm and confident grip on what the greater purposes of human life might be and on just how any one of us should go about developing whatever greater possibilities we might have. I'm swimming in the same stream with everyone else.
But whatever the answers to those overarching questions might be, I'd stop and think awhile if my job or avocation were to help exploit, for temporal personal gain, our divisions and confusions about how to live our lives together. Anyone, including me, who weighs in on these matters needs to do so with honesty and sincerity and something like religious humility I would think.
3
No earth science institution doing research into global warming agrees with Trump and the Republicans in Congress and yet after Trump's amazing roll back of climate science research and discarding of the science-- there is silence. You would expect that every one of these institutions would sign a joint declaration that condemns this ignorant foolish president but there is silence instead. 97% of climate scientists supposedly disagree with the President and the Republicans in Congress and yet they are silent. Silence is assent.
4
Excellent points regarding the importance to advance the Paris agreements in regard to Climate Change. Although our 'brute-in-chief' won't read your article (too lazy or too willfully ignorant to believe there is yet something he doesn't know), the voices of reason are all around us, not the least being the industries that depend on energy sources other than coal. I am curious to know, aside from the conspiracy theories that make Trump tick, who is whispering in his ear so many idiocies and outrage, malevolent as they are to alter the progress achieved in these last 50 years, some at a high cost and sacrifice. Having a 'bull in a China shop' was, after all, not the brightest idea, was it? Buyers remorse now, perhaps vindicated by indicting Trump as soon we can confirm collusion of his team with Russia, so to take the presidency by assault.
8
As Tom Friedman pointed out the other day, all Trump has done is let China take the lead in climate science and clean energy technology. While Trump is denying science, scrapping pollution controls and taking us backward to undrinkable water and unbreathable air, Xi is cleaning up China and acting every bit the adult statesman at world climate forums. What a contrast. We have to get rid of this buffoon and the nihilists around him before America First becomes America Last.
13
Thanks Michael. We decided to put solar photovoltaics on our home in New Mexico in 2012. This month like most months we not only are pay nothing, that's nothing to PNM for electricity, we'll be getting a check for nearly $36.00. We got both a federal and a state tax rebate (a real one Paul Ryan) the year we installed them. The solar panels, guaranteed until 2037, will be paid for in about three more years. However, last year the bipartisan New Mexico legislature passed a bill to re-issue the state rebate, but our Republican Governor Martinez vetoed it two weeks after receiving $20,000 from the Koch Brothers. Republicans can continue to attack the environment and economy for the 99%, but we will and are fighting back for the good of the country and our grandchildren.
24
One possible ray of hope regarding the Republican Party's knee-jerk support for the fossil industry is that an ever-increasing number of primarily rural, primarily conservative counties in the Plains and the Southwest are starting to make solid income from wind and solar farms.
Landowners are picking up lease and royalty revenue from a power source that won't spill on their land. Counties that are often losing population get a fresh source of income. This could result in a schism, and let some Republicans break free from fossil interests.
Iowa gets >31% of their power from wind now. Up from <1% in 2000.
Texas (!) gets about 10% of their electricity from wind, and they use more electricity than any other state.
Landowners are picking up lease and royalty revenue from a power source that won't spill on their land. Counties that are often losing population get a fresh source of income. This could result in a schism, and let some Republicans break free from fossil interests.
Iowa gets >31% of their power from wind now. Up from <1% in 2000.
Texas (!) gets about 10% of their electricity from wind, and they use more electricity than any other state.
4
If we gave every full time miner in the US a ticket to the Yankees' opening day game, there would still be seats available so why aren't Americans -- all 335 million -- more aware that Trump isn't going to save the US economy by 'helping' a dying industry? A better understanding of automation, technology, and climate change should be a priority in DC and at the NY Times.
5
Has the coal-burning furnace been installed in the White House yet?
3
This is a fine and hopeful piece, the most inspiring since the election. Thank you, Mayor.
7
Close your eyes for a moment and imagine what a smart, decent president could look like. Or just remember the one we just had.
Now open your eyes and weep.
Now open your eyes and weep.
8
Thank you Mr. Bloomberg for this timely article and I hope all the papers in this country pick up this article.
There are so many things to be fearful about, this is a glimmer of hope but we still have to be vigilant and speak out against the corporate stranglehold on ourselves and our government.
There are so many things to be fearful about, this is a glimmer of hope but we still have to be vigilant and speak out against the corporate stranglehold on ourselves and our government.
3
,,and for completeness i attach the letter mr. Bloomberg sent on the same subject, not one week a ago, my apologies, but two weeks ago!
https://www.nytimes.com/2017/03/17/opinion/from-michael-bloomberg-fighti...
It this the start of a krugman-esque relationship between the ex-mayor and the NY-sometimes-i-like-not-to-listen-Times, where the two intend to engage on a truthful and more thruthful cornucopia of articles?
https://www.nytimes.com/2017/03/17/opinion/from-michael-bloomberg-fighti...
It this the start of a krugman-esque relationship between the ex-mayor and the NY-sometimes-i-like-not-to-listen-Times, where the two intend to engage on a truthful and more thruthful cornucopia of articles?
1
There's no evidence of "tremendous progress" in global CO2 emissions. The root cause of all environmental problems, including any effect of humans on the climate, is overpopulation, but as this article illustrates, there is no leadership to address it. Despite beliefs in magical solutions, as the population increases from 7.4 to some 10 billion carbon-generating human heaters during this century, incremental increases in per capita energy efficiency will have no significant effect on the climate of the planet. As atmospheric CO2 concentrations continue to rise, acidification of the oceans will emerge as a much more serious problem than climate change. Humans have chosen quantity over quality, ensuring an environmental disaster of epic proportions.
3
The problem with Paris is that it suggests that industrialized nations must accept the economic sacrifices required to curb global climate change while buying cynical promises of emerging economies to contribute when they have little intent to do so if such contributions interrupt efforts to create middle-classes. Mr. Bloomberg’s premise that we must tolerate that in the name of the same Kumbaya that would deny Big-Gulps to overweight kids and take guns away from our hordes of bowlers too in love with their god, their guns and their beer is … predictable.
And still with the coal miners, a fast-vanishing breed in America, not for artificial means but for their obsolescence due to a more economically compelling fracking. Liberals (and even those who politically are really nothing, but possessed of a pronounced liberal bent, such as Michael Bloomberg) can’t seem to let go of the coal miners, when the real issue is the depressed population of New York State’s southern-tier, that isn’t ALLOWED to economically participate in the fracking movement that has so changed the economic prospects of so many in America.
Coal is dying in America of natural causes, so “progress” is a given. Focus instead on China, India and Russia and other economies, where its eventual death appears to be a (very) prolonged prospect due to its ubiquity and cheapness. And write Andrew Cuomo to re-think his irrational approach on fracking, so that his own people can share in the benefits.
And still with the coal miners, a fast-vanishing breed in America, not for artificial means but for their obsolescence due to a more economically compelling fracking. Liberals (and even those who politically are really nothing, but possessed of a pronounced liberal bent, such as Michael Bloomberg) can’t seem to let go of the coal miners, when the real issue is the depressed population of New York State’s southern-tier, that isn’t ALLOWED to economically participate in the fracking movement that has so changed the economic prospects of so many in America.
Coal is dying in America of natural causes, so “progress” is a given. Focus instead on China, India and Russia and other economies, where its eventual death appears to be a (very) prolonged prospect due to its ubiquity and cheapness. And write Andrew Cuomo to re-think his irrational approach on fracking, so that his own people can share in the benefits.
Richard, if efficient appliances and homes mean people spend less on electricity, at the same time the generation becomes far less polluting, so medical costs decline and health improves, that's a "sacrifice" worth making.
Or be cynical - the developed nations reduce the risk of more waves of refugees knocking on their borders if they invest to reduce future climate change. India has fenced off the border with Bangladesh. Would that stop refugees if the 50 million living within a couple yards of sea level suddenly were AT sea level?
India and China are moving towards renewables because their middle class won't put up with dying from pollution any more than people in the developed world put up with it. Coal isn't cheap when it kills more than a million a year in each country, and sickens more. Absenteeism costs money, too.
Nixon created EPA and he was not a kumbaya kind of guy.
Or be cynical - the developed nations reduce the risk of more waves of refugees knocking on their borders if they invest to reduce future climate change. India has fenced off the border with Bangladesh. Would that stop refugees if the 50 million living within a couple yards of sea level suddenly were AT sea level?
India and China are moving towards renewables because their middle class won't put up with dying from pollution any more than people in the developed world put up with it. Coal isn't cheap when it kills more than a million a year in each country, and sickens more. Absenteeism costs money, too.
Nixon created EPA and he was not a kumbaya kind of guy.
1
The market will influence buying decisions based upon price. What the market will never do by itself is to reflect the true societal costs of different energy sources or differentiate among them based upon their relative "externalities;" ie. societal costs that need not be paid by consumers. Some form of government intervention is necessary to incorporate or simply preclude the worst of those costs because private industry will not do so.
It is heartening to learn that clean energy sources may now effectively compete on their own in a Trump world. Let's not be foolish enough, however, to believe that the free market will protect us from the ill effects of profit. We just don't know yet what poisons come with "clean" energy. We just know that our new government will do nothing to protect us from them.
It is heartening to learn that clean energy sources may now effectively compete on their own in a Trump world. Let's not be foolish enough, however, to believe that the free market will protect us from the ill effects of profit. We just don't know yet what poisons come with "clean" energy. We just know that our new government will do nothing to protect us from them.
4
The Good Old Days really were not so very good, and 45 is certain to insure these present "Good Old Days" are horrid.
2
Thank you Mayor Bloomberg, who I once derided for nanny state initiatives but as a true business leader whose personal wealth was created honorably, for redirecting our attention to markets and economic progress solving climate change in spite of the blowhard in charge. The United States arrived at the Paris Accord having already achieved great progress in reducing emissions and airborne particulate matter with fracked gas replacing coal in a manner that was completely unexpected early on in the Obama Administration and as markets further develop solar and other renewable sources its likely we will meet the 2025 levels suggested by Paris. On the other hand Germany, a country held in high esteem by environmentalist for its green policies, is less likely to because of its denial of market forces by bankrupting utilities so that they are forced to supplement energy needs with cheap dirty coal.
15
Utilities would have to change models as transition progresses. Just like phone companies once did. Germany, as a pioneer, encountered first challenges, but also became a leader in engineering and energy reform. I am confident that they will overcome these challenges to the benefit of all. There was a series of very informative articles, including in fortune magazine, which is not green at all.
In the name of the greatest people that have ever trod this earth, I draw the line in the dust and toss the gauntlet before the feet of tyranny, and I say fossil fuels now, fossil fuels tomorrow, fossil fuels forever.
1
Thank you, and what a great illustration!
4
If Mayor Bloomberg felt so passionate about these issues then why didn't he run for President?
Was he afraid of the scrutiny by the press about his finances and private life or the insults that every candidate receives?
Give Trump credit. He never shied away from a fight. He and his family took a lot of hits both fair and grossly unfair. Trump didn't hesitate to travel around the country giving 3-4 speeches a day.
If anyone thinks it easy to ask some one for their vote then they should try running for office. They will find it a lot harder than writing columns in the New York Times.
Was he afraid of the scrutiny by the press about his finances and private life or the insults that every candidate receives?
Give Trump credit. He never shied away from a fight. He and his family took a lot of hits both fair and grossly unfair. Trump didn't hesitate to travel around the country giving 3-4 speeches a day.
If anyone thinks it easy to ask some one for their vote then they should try running for office. They will find it a lot harder than writing columns in the New York Times.
Please. "Give Trump credit"? Running for office is difficult? Sure is when you have your own personal jetliner to fly you back home to your own comfy bed after a hard day of blathering nonsense. Trump still hasn't learned that running for office is a walk on the golf course compared to actually running a country. Wait a sec, I guess he has learned a bit about golf courses (not by walking them, however). All signs indicate he never will understand what being president entails.
3
There's only room for one President at a time, yet lots of room for passionate people to get more done. And it helps a bit if the passionate one is a dozen times richer than Trump, and has the drive and smarts to have made that fortune by his own work rather than inheriting like Donald and the Koch boys.
Then show us the tax returns. That wouldn't be "hard".
Dear Mr. Bloomberg,
Well presented and, if you will, a voice of reason in the loud, chest pounding cacophony that seems the norm in politics these days.
Indeed, wind turbines are proliferating, more homes and businesses are sprouting solar panels and sustainable energy IS the future despite what Mr. Trump and his 62 million followers choose to believe.
The baleful influence of people like the fossil fuel barons, the Koch brothers for one, seems to be offset by the will of the people as evidenced by the numbers you are quoting. In short, it seems that though the Republicans tout "the market place' as the ultimate arbiter of business when presented with the concept that it's actually working in the energy business they just run back to their benefactors to squeeze a few more donations from them to carry on their, hopefully, loosing campaign.
Trump and his cronies may want to drag us back to the 18th Century but it appears the rest of the world and the 65 million of us who didn't vote for him are headed for the 21st Century with cleaner air and efficient vehicles. As for the rising oceans, I think we're somewhat late to halt that but when the GOP starts loosing in 2018 perhaps we can start to do something about THAT also!
Well presented and, if you will, a voice of reason in the loud, chest pounding cacophony that seems the norm in politics these days.
Indeed, wind turbines are proliferating, more homes and businesses are sprouting solar panels and sustainable energy IS the future despite what Mr. Trump and his 62 million followers choose to believe.
The baleful influence of people like the fossil fuel barons, the Koch brothers for one, seems to be offset by the will of the people as evidenced by the numbers you are quoting. In short, it seems that though the Republicans tout "the market place' as the ultimate arbiter of business when presented with the concept that it's actually working in the energy business they just run back to their benefactors to squeeze a few more donations from them to carry on their, hopefully, loosing campaign.
Trump and his cronies may want to drag us back to the 18th Century but it appears the rest of the world and the 65 million of us who didn't vote for him are headed for the 21st Century with cleaner air and efficient vehicles. As for the rising oceans, I think we're somewhat late to halt that but when the GOP starts loosing in 2018 perhaps we can start to do something about THAT also!
1
The only "false impression" is the Theory of Global Warming itself.
Proponents of AGW admit that CO2 is unable all by itself to have caused the warming seen since the beginning of the 20th century. But because they refuse to accept that something else - such as natural causes - could be responsible, they have invented "feedbacks" that they claim exist and cause the extra warming that CO2 cannot have achieved. These feedbacks amount to the following:
- increasing CO2 increases surface temp
- increasing surface temp increases ocean temp
- increasing ocean temp increases the release of more CO2 and H2O
- increasing H2O increases surface temp
- repeat
There's just one problem: CO2 isn't necessary to achieve this feedback. The ocean doesn't care whether the heat transferred from the surface to the ocean comes from CO2 or H2O. The fact that there is 60 H2O molecules for every single CO2 molecule (on average) means that H2O will have a greater effect of warming the ocean, so much that CO2 isn't necessary. At. All.
This is basic thermodynamics, something the proponents of AGW seem to ignore.
Proponents of AGW admit that CO2 is unable all by itself to have caused the warming seen since the beginning of the 20th century. But because they refuse to accept that something else - such as natural causes - could be responsible, they have invented "feedbacks" that they claim exist and cause the extra warming that CO2 cannot have achieved. These feedbacks amount to the following:
- increasing CO2 increases surface temp
- increasing surface temp increases ocean temp
- increasing ocean temp increases the release of more CO2 and H2O
- increasing H2O increases surface temp
- repeat
There's just one problem: CO2 isn't necessary to achieve this feedback. The ocean doesn't care whether the heat transferred from the surface to the ocean comes from CO2 or H2O. The fact that there is 60 H2O molecules for every single CO2 molecule (on average) means that H2O will have a greater effect of warming the ocean, so much that CO2 isn't necessary. At. All.
This is basic thermodynamics, something the proponents of AGW seem to ignore.
Mr. Bloomberg doesn't realize, but he's making the same point as the Trump Administration, which is that markets need to lead the way, not regulation. In other words, he's disagreeing to agree.
He also makes no mention of Clean Coal, or how critically-dependent renewable sources like Wind are on government subsidies or the future of nuclear or the impact of low gas prices.
Nuclear especially, may be on the cusp of revival, given the recent bankruptcy of Westinghouse is being blamed on onerous regulation from the NRC. Would be logical to assume the Trump administration to step-in, perhaps have the NRC on sights already, to restore sanity to the projects now stuck in limbo in Georgia and South Carolina as a result of the bankruptcy.
Separately, Wind's rapid demise is also on the cards, given that subsidies are also in the cross-hairs of the administration, not to forget the president's personal distaste for the ugly technology. The faster, the better. These are glorified Science projects at best, have little place in an energy-rich country like the USA.
Fact is, if Mr. Bloomberg is trying to pick an argument with Trump, he needs to find something else. All Trump's doing is ripping-up onerous regulation that fed steroids to projects like eye-sore Wind, and hastened the demise of ex-giant Coal. The government has no business doing either. Let them rise and fall on their own merits, and as markets see fit.
He also makes no mention of Clean Coal, or how critically-dependent renewable sources like Wind are on government subsidies or the future of nuclear or the impact of low gas prices.
Nuclear especially, may be on the cusp of revival, given the recent bankruptcy of Westinghouse is being blamed on onerous regulation from the NRC. Would be logical to assume the Trump administration to step-in, perhaps have the NRC on sights already, to restore sanity to the projects now stuck in limbo in Georgia and South Carolina as a result of the bankruptcy.
Separately, Wind's rapid demise is also on the cards, given that subsidies are also in the cross-hairs of the administration, not to forget the president's personal distaste for the ugly technology. The faster, the better. These are glorified Science projects at best, have little place in an energy-rich country like the USA.
Fact is, if Mr. Bloomberg is trying to pick an argument with Trump, he needs to find something else. All Trump's doing is ripping-up onerous regulation that fed steroids to projects like eye-sore Wind, and hastened the demise of ex-giant Coal. The government has no business doing either. Let them rise and fall on their own merits, and as markets see fit.
2
This is a thoughtful piece by Michael Bloomberg. Thank you. Unfortunately, what Trump has done with this latest executive order affects more than climate (I say that as a native of Miami Beach, which is under water now around 10 times a year - one can deny many things, but it is hard to deny the water lapping around one's front door).
Once again, Mr. Trump has betrayed those who voted for him and believe in him as the person who will make their lives whole again. By surrounding himself with miners and indicating he was signing that Executive Order to bring those jobs back, he was telling a terrible lie with serious consequences for thousands of people. That EO will help the industry marginally as it transitions. It will not bring back thousands of mining jobs.
Those miners should have political leadership that will make certain they and their families have what they need to live a decent life while society changes our energy strategies. We should be talking about education programs for young people in mining country that includes vocational education similar to what is provided in Germany, free 4-year college for those who want to take that route, and for their parents a path to decent paying work for those still able to take on new skills and a comfortable life for those who took great risks and sacrificed much to bring that coal up from underground to give us the energy we needed to run our businesses, our schools and our homes for so many of America's years.
Once again, Mr. Trump has betrayed those who voted for him and believe in him as the person who will make their lives whole again. By surrounding himself with miners and indicating he was signing that Executive Order to bring those jobs back, he was telling a terrible lie with serious consequences for thousands of people. That EO will help the industry marginally as it transitions. It will not bring back thousands of mining jobs.
Those miners should have political leadership that will make certain they and their families have what they need to live a decent life while society changes our energy strategies. We should be talking about education programs for young people in mining country that includes vocational education similar to what is provided in Germany, free 4-year college for those who want to take that route, and for their parents a path to decent paying work for those still able to take on new skills and a comfortable life for those who took great risks and sacrificed much to bring that coal up from underground to give us the energy we needed to run our businesses, our schools and our homes for so many of America's years.
84
Sen. Joe Manchin of West Virginia should be ashamed of himself for failing to promote the sort of initiatives that you describe or to take leadership in showing his constituents that this administration's promises about coal are false hopes.
Good news? Ouch. It's difficult to absorb and savor good news these days, though it's more delicious than glazed doughnuts or hot chocolate in the morning. I will read this article again (and again) ...
and try not to remember that Donald Trump and his cabal of actively destructive, blatantly white guys are cutting the federal government, threatening Big Bird, denying affordable health care to women worldwide, preparing to deny school lunches to hungry American children, pumping up the military to reconfirm their own virility, demonizing immigrants, entangling themselves in lies to camouflage their ties to Russian mafia operatives, preparing to "straighten" gay men and women with "conversion therapy," wasting a whole lot of money on boy toys, and destabilizing the world.
But thank you for this ray of hope!!!
and try not to remember that Donald Trump and his cabal of actively destructive, blatantly white guys are cutting the federal government, threatening Big Bird, denying affordable health care to women worldwide, preparing to deny school lunches to hungry American children, pumping up the military to reconfirm their own virility, demonizing immigrants, entangling themselves in lies to camouflage their ties to Russian mafia operatives, preparing to "straighten" gay men and women with "conversion therapy," wasting a whole lot of money on boy toys, and destabilizing the world.
But thank you for this ray of hope!!!
3
Sorry. Business leaders make decisions that benefit their own self-interest aka their bank accounts. They do not necessarily make decisions that promote the well-being of the most American Citizens. It's true that many corporate leaders are now making decisions that promote the protection of the environment. Many still do not. It takes both government and business to further the changes that need to occur to restore the health of this planet. It does not bode well for ANY American Citizen that we now have a President who claims "Global Warming is Hoax". He is rapidly working to defund many government research initiatives that will promote the development of new technologies that will potentially evolve into real world solutions to overcome the environmental destruction we the people have created as we acted in our own self interest but with little knowledge. I remind you that it is not Google, Apple and Microsoft that created the knowledge foundation that evolved into internet.. It was researchers working at DARPA. Business alone acting in it's own self-interest does not solve complex problems. Business and government both working to solve problems will potentially open doorways to better solutions for the American people. I suggest that you need to look at a larger field of data. It is not just your self-interest that is important. You do not represent the self-interest of the American People and humanity.
1
How ironic that when another Republican (sic) president, Ronald Reagan, warned that "government is the problem," cities and states in the nation's interior pushed back with policies and programs that teamed public and private sectors. The innovative laboratories of democracy politely ignored Reagan's small government fixation and actually solved problems. History does indeed repeat itself.
Thank you Mr. Mayor for this truly encouraging piece.
Thank you Mr. Mayor for this truly encouraging piece.
2
Thanks, I feel much better. It is just a shame that Trump has to paint the world as such an ugly place and that everything he wants to do seems to amount to making it uglier. I am hoping he doesn't get to build the wall either. That is just an insane idea and a waste of a ton of money and again would just make the world an uglier place.
2
"Though few people realize it, more than 250 coal plants — almost half of the total number in this country — have announced in recent years that they will close or switch to cleaner fuels."
Wrong. Those coal plants are closing due to excessive regulations imposed by the EPA. One promise Obama kept was to impose large costs on coal fired electrical generation - enough to bankrupt anyone building coal plants. You "progressives" should be proud of your anti-business anti-job policies that work as designed.
Wrong. Those coal plants are closing due to excessive regulations imposed by the EPA. One promise Obama kept was to impose large costs on coal fired electrical generation - enough to bankrupt anyone building coal plants. You "progressives" should be proud of your anti-business anti-job policies that work as designed.
Then according to your alternate facts, now that the regulations are gone, the coal plants will re-open. Wanna bet $1000.00 on that? Or how about buying me an electric care I can power for free from my solar panels.
2
Mr. Mayor you see the climate issue in black and white terms just as you do
our Second Amendment rights. Wrong on both counts. On 'climate progress'
it turns out there is far more ambiguity among the corporations whose actions
you so boldly cite as in the vanguard of your arguments. Corporate leaders taken as a whole are a mixed bag, understanding we live in the real world, where environmental concerns must be considered along with needs of real men and women for jobs now, plus interests of shareholders. It is also ironic that you presume to judge our President when as Mayor I recall your efforts to impose on New York what many of us considered a Nanny State including the soda restrictions, smoking bans, mandated breast feeding and all the rest. Where a messenger is considered as well as the message, I wonder if the environmental zealots have their best advocate in you. Up to them.
our Second Amendment rights. Wrong on both counts. On 'climate progress'
it turns out there is far more ambiguity among the corporations whose actions
you so boldly cite as in the vanguard of your arguments. Corporate leaders taken as a whole are a mixed bag, understanding we live in the real world, where environmental concerns must be considered along with needs of real men and women for jobs now, plus interests of shareholders. It is also ironic that you presume to judge our President when as Mayor I recall your efforts to impose on New York what many of us considered a Nanny State including the soda restrictions, smoking bans, mandated breast feeding and all the rest. Where a messenger is considered as well as the message, I wonder if the environmental zealots have their best advocate in you. Up to them.
Mr. Bloomberg has given me a glimmer of hope. But people need to realize that climate change is hastening OUR demise. The planet is turning against US. Once she's thrown us off, Mother Earth will metaphorically heave a reduced carbon dioxide sigh of relief and go about repairing herself. Working to restore more atmospheric balance is about saving ourselves.
2
And don't forget, the human refuse will be turned into oil for the next dominant species. Hey, only FAIR. LOL
Thank you, Mr. Bloomberg; this is definitely good news. But the states and cities still face obstacles. In some states, the fossil fuel industry has influenced legislatures (Republican, always) to enact laws that burden renewable energy, such as rooftop solar, with fees designed to destroy its attractiveness to businesses and consumers. And we have to be vigilant against attempts by Congress and the Trump cabinet to interfere with the ability of states and cities to create their own energy policies. The fight isn't over, but it's great to hear we're moving ahead.
2
China is closing coal plants because their designs pollute. The US is closing them, or shifting to natural gas, because it's cheaper. Simple economics, not "fictitious people not killed by air pollution" is causing this.
These air pollution death rates are fictions anyway. Apply the projected numbers to cities back in the 1970's and you come up with more deaths from air pollution than were recorded from all causes.
The Paris accords are bad for the US because they force the US (319 million) to 6 tons of CO2 per capita with China (1.357 billion) allowed 9 tons - a 10 fold difference in total carbon production. This would artificially relegate the US to being a second class citizen on this planet.
Obama fought mightily against fracking, yet it looks to become the savior of the planet. As the market for Liquid Natural Gas develops, suppliers from the US, Mideast, Russian, S. America, even Iceland, will scramble to build refrigeration plants to move it. Eventually, China, India, and the still to emerge African continent, will be able to use this clean and less carbon intensive fuel.
Solar is nice, and will grow, but it is not "free" - the more solar the better, but it will be decades before it has a realistic impact on the planets overall usage of energy. Of the 5000 TWh of energy used on this planet, renewables, which includes solar, wind, hydroelectric, amount to just 3.5% - a drop in the bucket.
These air pollution death rates are fictions anyway. Apply the projected numbers to cities back in the 1970's and you come up with more deaths from air pollution than were recorded from all causes.
The Paris accords are bad for the US because they force the US (319 million) to 6 tons of CO2 per capita with China (1.357 billion) allowed 9 tons - a 10 fold difference in total carbon production. This would artificially relegate the US to being a second class citizen on this planet.
Obama fought mightily against fracking, yet it looks to become the savior of the planet. As the market for Liquid Natural Gas develops, suppliers from the US, Mideast, Russian, S. America, even Iceland, will scramble to build refrigeration plants to move it. Eventually, China, India, and the still to emerge African continent, will be able to use this clean and less carbon intensive fuel.
Solar is nice, and will grow, but it is not "free" - the more solar the better, but it will be decades before it has a realistic impact on the planets overall usage of energy. Of the 5000 TWh of energy used on this planet, renewables, which includes solar, wind, hydroelectric, amount to just 3.5% - a drop in the bucket.
2
Save to Coal Mines, you mean? The idea that we'd be losing to China because we don't emit more CO2 is like saying we're losing to India because we use far fewer oxen to move freight.
Yet you claim fracking is "the savior of the planet", even though it's causing us to lose the CO2 race to China.
The link between CO2 emissions and global (or national) economic growth is quite last century. Worldwide CO2 emissions have been flat for the last three years while the global economy expanded. The developed nations have continued to grow while reducing emissions. Industry is reducing emissions, too - with lower-temperature processes, better catalysts and smarter re-use of heat. That improves their bottom line.
No, CO2 emissions growth is no longer the mark of economic growth.
Yet you claim fracking is "the savior of the planet", even though it's causing us to lose the CO2 race to China.
The link between CO2 emissions and global (or national) economic growth is quite last century. Worldwide CO2 emissions have been flat for the last three years while the global economy expanded. The developed nations have continued to grow while reducing emissions. Industry is reducing emissions, too - with lower-temperature processes, better catalysts and smarter re-use of heat. That improves their bottom line.
No, CO2 emissions growth is no longer the mark of economic growth.
This a great article!
I believe he is correct, we will continue to improve our environment and save lives despite the losers in the federal government. Coal is on the way out in the US and nothing will stop that.
This article should more widely publicized.
I believe he is correct, we will continue to improve our environment and save lives despite the losers in the federal government. Coal is on the way out in the US and nothing will stop that.
This article should more widely publicized.
9
Thank you, Mr. Bloomberg, for your powerfully optimistic -- and accurate -- message. Cities, states and businesses understand that when they respond to citizens' and consumers' desire for healthy places to live, work and play, everyone wins. We're ready to abandon President Trump when the direction he wants to take us is backwards.
7
Mr. Bloomberg is correct that there is some momentum that cannot be stopped toward cleaner energy sources. It is important to recognize this to forestall despair and keep the pressure on decision makers to accelerate the transition.
It is also true that carbon continues to build up in the atmosphere, and most climate scientists will tell you that nobody can really predict where is the final tipping point beyond which runaway climate change becomes unstoppable. It is analogous to a cigarette smoker who wants to quit. On some unknown day, some seemingly innocuous cigarette is the final one that slams the gate behind it rendering cancer unstoppable. While we can cheer the progress in the pipeline toward cleaner energy, until we have eliminated the gusher of carbon entering the atmosphere, we are like a smoker who prides himself on only smoking 10 cigarettes a day rather than 20. Maybe the smoker is reforming fast enough to save himself, and maybe we will stop climate change to save society. Be cheered by our progress, but fight harder than ever to quit for good.
It is also true that carbon continues to build up in the atmosphere, and most climate scientists will tell you that nobody can really predict where is the final tipping point beyond which runaway climate change becomes unstoppable. It is analogous to a cigarette smoker who wants to quit. On some unknown day, some seemingly innocuous cigarette is the final one that slams the gate behind it rendering cancer unstoppable. While we can cheer the progress in the pipeline toward cleaner energy, until we have eliminated the gusher of carbon entering the atmosphere, we are like a smoker who prides himself on only smoking 10 cigarettes a day rather than 20. Maybe the smoker is reforming fast enough to save himself, and maybe we will stop climate change to save society. Be cheered by our progress, but fight harder than ever to quit for good.
3
Trump is doing far more to retard efforts on climate change than simply allowing coal & other industries free rein to pollute. His worst contribution is that he had stopped ALL government-involved research into the climate. He has even banned anybody in the executive department from using the phrase "climate change!" (Orwell's "1984" is back on the NYT best-selling list). Cutting offresearch in the United States, one of the world's few scientific powerhouses, will have a profoundly negative effect on the scientific and technological advances in dealing with climate change & its growing effects on the world's climate. Today, China is the world's largest polluter & the US is second. China is frantically closing down dependence on coal plants and pouring money into studying & implementing renewable energy sources, - solar, wind, hydro, etc. The US under the GOP is doing the opposite. They are ignoring reality just to increase the bottom line of the dirtiest energy companies & totally closing down any research they can into the causes, effects, & mitigation of the climate change already well under way.
Many small & mid-sized companies will adopt natural gas (which does not pollute from auto exhausts, but puts out CO2 (half that of coal), methane (a far stronger greenhouse gas), toxic waste, polluting drinking water, & increasing earthquakes from fracking wells.
Voluntary compliance of green technology will not work. Google the game theory "The Tragedy of the Common."
Many small & mid-sized companies will adopt natural gas (which does not pollute from auto exhausts, but puts out CO2 (half that of coal), methane (a far stronger greenhouse gas), toxic waste, polluting drinking water, & increasing earthquakes from fracking wells.
Voluntary compliance of green technology will not work. Google the game theory "The Tragedy of the Common."
7
Then we fight. You have made it the only alternative to politics 'as usual'. Can't wait for elections that may never come. If they do, millions will already be dying (Ryan is getting ready to strike with a new 'healthcare' bill. Probably in the same vein as the 'repeal' of NC's bathroom bill, that repealed the old, & instituted another one just like, or worse than the old. Sorry numb nuts I'm not that stupid.)
So, the Citizens' Army will have to do what our system was designed to do for us (until politicians as a class were co opted by the rich). The Declaration of Independence gives us the Obligation (disguised as a Right) to fight any regime that threatens to destroy our democracy, country, &/or people. If we are too cowardly to act, then maybe it is time for humans to be supplanted by the next ruling species. What do you say to being usurped by cockroaches?
So, the Citizens' Army will have to do what our system was designed to do for us (until politicians as a class were co opted by the rich). The Declaration of Independence gives us the Obligation (disguised as a Right) to fight any regime that threatens to destroy our democracy, country, &/or people. If we are too cowardly to act, then maybe it is time for humans to be supplanted by the next ruling species. What do you say to being usurped by cockroaches?
1
Superb piece, Mr. Bloomberg! Thanks, we needed that.
Yes, Washington has tremendous power, but it is important to remember that markets and other governmental actors are supporting clean energy.
Yes, Washington has tremendous power, but it is important to remember that markets and other governmental actors are supporting clean energy.
1
The GOP should retire the Elephant as their party symbol and adopt the "Buggy Whip" to signify their fixation with bygone industries.
9
I bet the last company to go out of business made the best damn buggy whip you ever saw!
think about it John, a return to the horse and buggy days would mean fewer carbon emissions now, wouldn't it? Need to think things through....
Hope you're right; but a problem I see is, for too many Americans, government only means D.C.
Coal is to energy what the Pony Express was to communications. Both provided significant advances in this country, but technology has replaced them. As much as I love horses, my iPhone is much better at keeping me informed and in touch.
17
How many times does it have to be pointed out that solar and wind cannot replace fossil fuel, nuclear and hydro. Yes storage will get cheaper but by how much? For now you need conventional power plants to provide when the wind and sun aren't cooperating. Politician's in Germany decided their people can afford .50 kwh for electricity. I like to keep my cost down to .10 kwh.
Those non profits pay pretty good saleries, they need to keep the money coming in, so can I ask are their studies peer reviewed and authenticated by qualified individuals?
It must be hard to make a killing in gas, oil and coal. I bet you can make a fortune trading carbon futures, and getting in on the bottom of wind and solar. But thanks for pointing out life goes on even with Trump as president.
Those non profits pay pretty good saleries, they need to keep the money coming in, so can I ask are their studies peer reviewed and authenticated by qualified individuals?
It must be hard to make a killing in gas, oil and coal. I bet you can make a fortune trading carbon futures, and getting in on the bottom of wind and solar. But thanks for pointing out life goes on even with Trump as president.
True, up to a point, but you miss the huge advances being made in storage of energy from renewable sources. Google Molten Salt technology to get an idea of how solar installations are becoming 24 hr power generators.
Didn't you read the article? It says that more & more coal plants are being shut down or changed to natural gas, which is cleaner & cheaper. That is a conventional fuel. Coal is so outa here. No good for anything but interesting sculptures.
So, take your family & move downwind of a coal plant. Raise your sons to work in coal mines & beat it into them they SHALL NOT take any job that does not pollute, only drive elderly muscle cars, make sure they start smoking at an early age.
Then maybe *45 will give you a medal.
Fewer coal fired electric plants = more mines going out of business, automated or not.
Just because El Stupido signs pieces of paper in fancy black folders with magic markers doesn't mean businesses will throw away their progress & slink back to doing things the old polluting way. Like car companies. US auto manufacturers are in trouble again anyway. Wanted to buy the most American made, fuel efficient, least polluting mini van (need mini van for power chair). Guess what? Got a Honda Odessey. 75% American made parts, built in America. The Dodge/Chrysler is made outside the country of foreign parts. Cars models through 2022 are set. Companies won't waste money going back to old polluting cars. Though White Trash may want them, they can't afford the $80,000 they will cost causes companies will only make a few, for members of Polluters Anonymous.
So, take your family & move downwind of a coal plant. Raise your sons to work in coal mines & beat it into them they SHALL NOT take any job that does not pollute, only drive elderly muscle cars, make sure they start smoking at an early age.
Then maybe *45 will give you a medal.
Fewer coal fired electric plants = more mines going out of business, automated or not.
Just because El Stupido signs pieces of paper in fancy black folders with magic markers doesn't mean businesses will throw away their progress & slink back to doing things the old polluting way. Like car companies. US auto manufacturers are in trouble again anyway. Wanted to buy the most American made, fuel efficient, least polluting mini van (need mini van for power chair). Guess what? Got a Honda Odessey. 75% American made parts, built in America. The Dodge/Chrysler is made outside the country of foreign parts. Cars models through 2022 are set. Companies won't waste money going back to old polluting cars. Though White Trash may want them, they can't afford the $80,000 they will cost causes companies will only make a few, for members of Polluters Anonymous.
Moore's law applies. The business case is so compelling that resources will be applied, the technology for generating and storing power will improve and the cost will drop for the foreseeable future. Coal and other fossil fuels will persist but become increasingly un-economic and ultimately be a novelty like steam engines.
How I hope you are right.
5
If the Majority of us (you know, we the people who did not vote for *45) refuse to accept anything be it appliances, cars, homes, HVAC systems, etc , that is anything but less polluting, the companies will follow US not orangeheaded beady eyed crooks in DC. No matter how many magic markers he uses.
1
"In both red and blue states" indeed. The new renewable techs largely issue from Calif., which has the motive, market & science to keep improving them. What will even red States of the West like Arizona (already 2d nat'lly in utility-scale electricity generation from solar) do to run airconditioning in summers, when solar gets far cheaper, more locally controlled & reliable and safer than other sources?
Bloomberg's piece sounds a welcome optimistic note, but it fails to address a key issue. Even if we and other countries meet our obligations under the Paris Accords, will that achievement suffice to put us on a trajectory to prevent the worst disasters of climate change? That agreement, after all, represented a political consensus, not a scientific one. Elected officials set goals they thought their constituents would accept, not necessarily the ones required by the health of the planet.
Trump may lack the power to reverse market-driven trends, but he can certainly refuse to supplement economic forces with state power, a resource that could accelerate the the drive to curb pollution. I very much hope Mr. Bloomberg has correctly identified the future course of the struggle against global warming, but it still seems much too early to celebrate.
Trump may lack the power to reverse market-driven trends, but he can certainly refuse to supplement economic forces with state power, a resource that could accelerate the the drive to curb pollution. I very much hope Mr. Bloomberg has correctly identified the future course of the struggle against global warming, but it still seems much too early to celebrate.
1
As Bloomberg states the United States will meet its goals set out it the Paris Accord regardless of what the Trump Administration does. If you want to gain confidence in this outcome take a look at "ReInventing Fire" which is a detailed plan (with loads of interesting data) for taking the US off of hydrocarbons by 2050. The book was written by the Rocky Mountain Institute and demonstrates that market forces will take us to this result regardless of government policy. China has incorporated the "reInventing Fire" concepts into its most recent Five Year Plan. If you are interested: take a look at the Rocky Mountain Institute website. Bloomberg is correct and Trump is simply a luddite - uninformed and backward looking.
5
The nice thing about the United States is that individuals have the liberty to do their part. Individuals can keep buying Hybrid and Electric cars; they can buy small well insulated homes; they can install solar panels and geothermal systems; they can install efficient appliances and shower every other day. Trump has not done anything to take that liberty and freedom away from anyone.
While I can agree with Bloomberg's optimistic take on what's happening with climate change efforts and resonate with his belief that the people will ultimately lead the charge to save our planet, I'm left with a sense of dread that, without encouragement and leadership from Washington, efforts will fall short. Trump and his Wrecking Crew are not only dismantling needed regulations, they are actively trying to get in the way of progress by changing the very nature of what the American public believes about this impending, lethal disaster. Saving the planet cannot be a piecemeal effort. Like recycling, it's not enough that 35% of the population is involved, to be effective it must be a national - no, a global - effort. Bloomberg's optimism is lovely, but it cannot offset the negative work of the GOP deniers.
4
If you truly believe this, join the Citizens' Army, if you don't have one buy a long gun (rifle, shotgun, whatever), lots of ammo & come with us. We are going to go idiot hunting in Washington. A lot like deer hunting, but, the prey is not so cute. We will arrest them IF they surrender, shoot them if they run (runners are always guilty, of something). Try them for treason against the USA (*45 & the 1%ers are NOT America), & then most will hang. Some in congress will just get long terms in solitary (since they have seen classified info, they must never see another human being again), but, Ryan, McConnell, & all those males in that picture about the health plan, will hang. Then if any leave evidence behind, we will go after the 1%ers who have been financing them. They too will be tried for Treason, since they will have public defenders (money shouldn't count in how good your lawyer is), I figure 99% will hang.
See hanging is important. Lethal injection is too wimpy. For treason it should be scary & painful. As far as LI is concerned. States should just use all those opioids they keep confiscating. Just shoot em up with massive doses, let em nod away. Then executions would be practically free. But, for Traitors, pain, misery, watching others go first, that is all part of it. Oh, should be in public. Like the Mall in DC.
See hanging is important. Lethal injection is too wimpy. For treason it should be scary & painful. As far as LI is concerned. States should just use all those opioids they keep confiscating. Just shoot em up with massive doses, let em nod away. Then executions would be practically free. But, for Traitors, pain, misery, watching others go first, that is all part of it. Oh, should be in public. Like the Mall in DC.
Big business needs to deny Trump's dirty energy agenda. They can do this by installing renewables. That means every Walmart, every Staples, every factory and retail building needs to be covered in solar. And they should cancel their Chamber of Commerce membership.
This administration is a one-term mistake. In 2020, the new administration will move faster and stronger to build a new green energy economy. Hopefully it won't be too late.
This administration is a one-term mistake. In 2020, the new administration will move faster and stronger to build a new green energy economy. Hopefully it won't be too late.
6
In my area we just got an offer from the electric company to pick our source of electricity. Be it renewable, natural gas/nuclear, or coal. Now, up here in the North East coal is dead. Hydro &/or natural gas, then nuclear (though those plants are getting old), most people are asking why even put coal on the list there are so few coal plants left. None are going to retro fit back to coal, no matter what dunderhead says.
Coal mine owners will reopen, dig coal for maybe a year & most will just pile up at the mine. Almost no one is buying. Then they will close, firing everyone AGAIN, this time with NO offer of retraining, the miners refused the first time. At least most mine owners won't have to spend money on safety as *45 has given those states the right to undo all safety concerns in coal mines. So, the biggest thing to come out of this will be the instant deaths from mine collapses, slower deaths from gas in the mines, to long slow deaths from black lung, as any 'health' plan the repugs come up with will specifically keep those with black lung from getting any medical insurance. It won't be called a preexisting condition, but, a 'life style choice'.
Coal mine owners will reopen, dig coal for maybe a year & most will just pile up at the mine. Almost no one is buying. Then they will close, firing everyone AGAIN, this time with NO offer of retraining, the miners refused the first time. At least most mine owners won't have to spend money on safety as *45 has given those states the right to undo all safety concerns in coal mines. So, the biggest thing to come out of this will be the instant deaths from mine collapses, slower deaths from gas in the mines, to long slow deaths from black lung, as any 'health' plan the repugs come up with will specifically keep those with black lung from getting any medical insurance. It won't be called a preexisting condition, but, a 'life style choice'.
2
I can't wait till the mayor descends the escalator of the Bloomberg Tower with his super model wife and declares his candidacy for president.
I look forward to him jetting across the country giving 3-4 speeches a day.
Unlike Trump, I am sure he will release his taxes and divest himself of all his businesses.
I look forward to him jetting across the country giving 3-4 speeches a day.
Unlike Trump, I am sure he will release his taxes and divest himself of all his businesses.
Hopeful words, but American demand for SUVs goes up and down with the cost of gasoline not the quality or amount of exhaust they produce. American supplies of petroleum are increasing, production is now the largest in the world. A Trump administration committed to cutting back on solar research and increasing oil supply is going to be a big impediment to reaching your goals, in my opinion. Remember when Reagan took the solar paneis off the White House which Carter had installed. That one symbolic act probably set back solar research by at least 10 years. I hope you are right, but with a president determined to take us back to the "dark" ages I have serious doubts.
3
Then fight. Are you a mouse who will whimper & whine, & worry, that 'it' can't be done or a man who will stand up & fight for not only your Country, but your WORLD? The only one we have.
ENERGY POLICY Is Trump going to provide government programs to pay for the higher cost of coal to generate power as compared with wind power? Not to mention the costs of cleaning up the toxic wastes from coal. None of those are present with wind power. The logical solution is that coal miners be retrained in installing solar rooftop arrays, retrofitting homes for energy efficiency and in installing and maintaining solar and wind farms. Now that's what I call clean politics!
2
What a great idea to write this, thank you so much. Its so easy get depressed and angry with the messages coming out of the White House at this time. It really helps to learn more about the larger picture of how our country actually works. Please keep up the good work!
5
Mr. Bloomberg omits a few things. One is most countries will not meet the voluntary reductions of the Paris Accord. The second is that the Paris Accord is the first baby step in reaching sustainability. The third is that the world has not reduced the amount of CO2 put in our atmosphere, it has simply plateaued --which is very very far from what it will take for 1 billion people to be sustainable, much less if we think we can support 7.5 billion and increasing. The oil companies are not leaving it in the ground and the 1% wants an ever increasing number of consumers. But a radical carbon tax, with rebates, could reduce CO2 production by 25%, immediately---and is supported by left and right.
2
I work for a major utility in the Southwest and this article by Mr. Bloomberg is spot on accurate. These changes are already happening and will continue regardless of the DC politics. The long-range price outlook for natural gas is a chief driver, along with the dropping cost of utility-scale solar. Both are in the interest of utility customers, so these resource planning trends will continue.
73
Trump and his administration may not be able to stop the development of cleaner energy but they can put a lot of roadblocks in the way of making it cheaper, better, and cleaner. The GOP and the businesses that currently supply us with fuel have worked against rules and regulations that would provide new jobs for people, clean up or protect our water, air, and soil, worker safety, etc. At this point even slowing it up hurts the planet and America. However, perhaps the swamp that is DC will be overrun with alligators, cottonmouths, and other creatures who can thrive on the hot air being produced by Trump and the GOP. That's a climate change we can welcome.
1
I know we can all agree that the wrong billionaire is occupying the Whitehouse.
222
The wrong billionaire is no billionaire for sure, as we will find out from his tax returns someday.
Mr. Bloomberg have way more class than all of his money, and he wears his wealth very lightly, and shares it. The less said the better for the other guy.
Mr. Bloomberg have way more class than all of his money, and he wears his wealth very lightly, and shares it. The less said the better for the other guy.
This is a good news piece in one sense. Market forces are making this energy transition happen. You might say “greed for good.” What is not considered in this essay is how “greed for bad” is holding it back.
It is the likes of Koch that do everything they can to protect the monopoly long held by the fossil fuel industry. They have been and continue to be successful at using our political system to prop up the value of their assets, coal, oil and natural gas, still in the ground. All the while they claim that their cause is the “natural” one, the one that glorious, unfettered, capitalism would choose. Truth is they are totally opposed to the free market and the benefit it can bring.
The other good news part of this essay isn’t really stated explicitly. That is that this Trump experience is probably going to be a fairly short one. He and his administration are revealed every day to be less and less relevant. They really aren’t going to have much lasting effect.
It is the likes of Koch that do everything they can to protect the monopoly long held by the fossil fuel industry. They have been and continue to be successful at using our political system to prop up the value of their assets, coal, oil and natural gas, still in the ground. All the while they claim that their cause is the “natural” one, the one that glorious, unfettered, capitalism would choose. Truth is they are totally opposed to the free market and the benefit it can bring.
The other good news part of this essay isn’t really stated explicitly. That is that this Trump experience is probably going to be a fairly short one. He and his administration are revealed every day to be less and less relevant. They really aren’t going to have much lasting effect.
15
Agreed. But we're still left with the Trump True Believer mentality that will always defend Trump and the Republicans no matter how much they prove to harm the working people of America.
How will we ever regain the ability of the public to take a hard look at how they no longer even have the desire to critically examine what they're told from listening to blowhards like Rush Limbaugh and just watching TV like Fox News to reinforce their opinions not real evidence for any of their beliefs. The same holds true for a bunch of Liberals who listen to guys like Bill Maher who even or last president said offers sometimes "...goofy ideas" like there's a persecution of Atheism in America.
This is the real problem in America's Great Divide.
How will we ever regain the ability of the public to take a hard look at how they no longer even have the desire to critically examine what they're told from listening to blowhards like Rush Limbaugh and just watching TV like Fox News to reinforce their opinions not real evidence for any of their beliefs. The same holds true for a bunch of Liberals who listen to guys like Bill Maher who even or last president said offers sometimes "...goofy ideas" like there's a persecution of Atheism in America.
This is the real problem in America's Great Divide.
1
Most reassuring article I've read since November 8th, and it's spot on. Trump can't change the economics of the situation and the fact is that clean energy prices have come way down. I just wish Mr. Bloomberg was president though
39
We don't need no stinkin Trumps.
10
Words of truth Mr. Bloomberg. The question is, will we move fast enough toward green energy to stave off the worst effects of climate change?
One element we have lost with the current administration is the U.S.'s role on the global stage as a leader in green energy conversion. We are now on the sidelines. As the #2 country in C02 emissions that's a bad message to send to countries like China and India.
One element we have lost with the current administration is the U.S.'s role on the global stage as a leader in green energy conversion. We are now on the sidelines. As the #2 country in C02 emissions that's a bad message to send to countries like China and India.
5
The US has only been the "leader" in green energy conversion during the Paris Accord. Clinton and W both ignored it. Europe has been the leader and a few indigenous nations that have unfortunately been under-reported. But we do have a distinction: the US of A has put more CO2 in the air than any other nation and we still put more in the air per-capita than any other nation.
"and the truth shall set you free." Thank-you Mr. Bloomberg, shame on you Mr.Trump.
6
Maybe it's time to ask Bloomberg about his encouragement, in the waning days of his extra long tenure, of Russian oligarchs buying up Manhattan real estate, which one now assumes would include the "alleged" money laundering by Paul Manafort and his "family" of Russian business partners. A lot of that Russian oil money got laundered through NYC real estate, which puts Mr. Bloomberg on the wrong side of the almighty dollar and in the position of enabler of the fossil fuel administration of our vile president.
1
Thanks Mike - Continue to speak, louder and more often. You're voice is needed.
4
'Why would consumers pay more for a power source that may kill them?'
This sounds much like the abysmal health care bill that the GOP just failed to pass. In an op-ed piece also published here today, GOP congressman Kinzinger bemoans the role of the 'Freedom Caucus' ' intransigence in thwarting the will of the people in causing that failure. The will of a brainwashed 17% of the people, more like, plus a few billionaires who stood to profit about $7M annually apiece if it passed. In the same way, trump now is trying to compromise the entire planet, all for the benefit of a few thousand coal workers who demand their right to contract black lung, and (funny thing!) for the profit for those self-same billionaires.
The editorial illustration for this op-ed is absolutely priceless, BTW.
This sounds much like the abysmal health care bill that the GOP just failed to pass. In an op-ed piece also published here today, GOP congressman Kinzinger bemoans the role of the 'Freedom Caucus' ' intransigence in thwarting the will of the people in causing that failure. The will of a brainwashed 17% of the people, more like, plus a few billionaires who stood to profit about $7M annually apiece if it passed. In the same way, trump now is trying to compromise the entire planet, all for the benefit of a few thousand coal workers who demand their right to contract black lung, and (funny thing!) for the profit for those self-same billionaires.
The editorial illustration for this op-ed is absolutely priceless, BTW.
12
And, in the ugliest of ironies, retired miners will lose their health insurance for black lung disease if Obamacare is repealed and the GOP philosophy of "malign neglect" health care replaces it. OTOH, Trump probably thinks the sooner the miners are dead or disabled, the more new jobs in this 19th century industry will open up.
Thanks, Mike. It's nice, for once, to hear some good news so I won't choke on my morning coffee. I only wish you had decided to run. We need sanity in order to survive the treacherous, perhaps even treasonous, insanity that is the toxic Trump Administration.
8
Another force comes to mind relative to climate change and other efforts by this administration to roll back progress made by the country and it may be in its infant stage but it is quite remarkable - those who take the time and make the effort to "comment"
thoroughly, reasonably an in a articulate
way about op-ed subjects such as Michael Bloomberg's essay.
Do not think lightly of the impact you are having.
thoroughly, reasonably an in a articulate
way about op-ed subjects such as Michael Bloomberg's essay.
Do not think lightly of the impact you are having.
2
Mr. Bloomberg is right, the economics of coal production are tilting slowly in the direction of cleaner methods of energy production, but that tilt is still too slow.
We rarely see on our evening news or even on the pages of papers like the Times a true picture of the disaster we are facing. In 2016, every major measure of global warming was at a record high, and trending to climb even higher. Ice shelfs the world over are melting at such a rapid rate that scientists can't get an accurate benchmark to even predict where they will be ten years from now.
Our reefs are dying, the ocean is becoming acidified and the Pacific Salman is approaching extinction and with them dozens of species along their food chain. They are but one of hundreds of species in this dire state.
There have been water riots in Bolivia and food riots in East Africa. Last year heat wave in Europe wiped out 40% of the Russian grain harvest. The war in Syria actually began as a protest over lack of bread due to a seven year drought.
Trump's real sin isn't simply his contribution to this calamity. It is that his administration will silence this conversation for at least the next four years.
Much of what is about to happen cannot be stopped, but may be mitigated. But Trump's sellout to the fossil fuel industry will delay even these crucial efforts and continue to confuse an already misinformed public. We should be declaring an environmental state of emergency rather than embracing more coal polution.
We rarely see on our evening news or even on the pages of papers like the Times a true picture of the disaster we are facing. In 2016, every major measure of global warming was at a record high, and trending to climb even higher. Ice shelfs the world over are melting at such a rapid rate that scientists can't get an accurate benchmark to even predict where they will be ten years from now.
Our reefs are dying, the ocean is becoming acidified and the Pacific Salman is approaching extinction and with them dozens of species along their food chain. They are but one of hundreds of species in this dire state.
There have been water riots in Bolivia and food riots in East Africa. Last year heat wave in Europe wiped out 40% of the Russian grain harvest. The war in Syria actually began as a protest over lack of bread due to a seven year drought.
Trump's real sin isn't simply his contribution to this calamity. It is that his administration will silence this conversation for at least the next four years.
Much of what is about to happen cannot be stopped, but may be mitigated. But Trump's sellout to the fossil fuel industry will delay even these crucial efforts and continue to confuse an already misinformed public. We should be declaring an environmental state of emergency rather than embracing more coal polution.
14
Dear Michael,
Why didn't you run for President?
Why didn't you run for President?
4
Please run for President!
6
There is one real danger that Trump and the Republican run state legislatures can do to greatly hamper progress with renewable energy. Never underestimate how hypocritical the GOP can be. They claim that the market is their god. Markets should rule everything. Except, when markets move against their big donors, all that market stuff goes out the window.
President Obama tried to influence markets with regulations and tax credits to promote green energy. The Republicans treated those measures as an act of tyranny. Now that the market is working in favor of green energy, the Republicans will do what they can to hamper its growth. They can and will impose regulations that make green energy more expensive. This has happened in some red states with regard to how utilities interface with grid tie solar systems. Even if the big blue cities pass laws to promote green power, the red state legislatures can pass laws that override them.
The Koch brothers are behind much of this. Trump just takes it to the federal level.
State rights only matter to the GOP if they push their backward agenda. This is the danger that we now face. Trump and the Republicans will do what they can not to just remove incentives for green power, but to install restrictions against it. We must keep fighting at the state level for our rights to have a clean world....and let markets rule in favor of it.
President Obama tried to influence markets with regulations and tax credits to promote green energy. The Republicans treated those measures as an act of tyranny. Now that the market is working in favor of green energy, the Republicans will do what they can to hamper its growth. They can and will impose regulations that make green energy more expensive. This has happened in some red states with regard to how utilities interface with grid tie solar systems. Even if the big blue cities pass laws to promote green power, the red state legislatures can pass laws that override them.
The Koch brothers are behind much of this. Trump just takes it to the federal level.
State rights only matter to the GOP if they push their backward agenda. This is the danger that we now face. Trump and the Republicans will do what they can not to just remove incentives for green power, but to install restrictions against it. We must keep fighting at the state level for our rights to have a clean world....and let markets rule in favor of it.
30
This article is very encouraging about climate progress.
What is still very, very discouraging is the mindset of the Trump administration and many Republican on this topic and so many others.
I wish Michael Bloomberg all the best.
What is still very, very discouraging is the mindset of the Trump administration and many Republican on this topic and so many others.
I wish Michael Bloomberg all the best.
8
Thanks Mayor Bloomberg. We are sorely missing level headed analysis like yours.
Meanwhile - "There is virtually nothing the Trump administration can do to stop advanced technology and consumer preferences" applies to Trump's positions on jobs too. Steel manufacturing and coal mining might as well be typewriter manufacturing for the low potential number of new jobs created. (Wasn't Ozzy a coal miner?).
Mayor Bloomberg - you missed the key reason that Trumps' effects are limited. Trump will be gone from office long before the term is up.
Meanwhile - "There is virtually nothing the Trump administration can do to stop advanced technology and consumer preferences" applies to Trump's positions on jobs too. Steel manufacturing and coal mining might as well be typewriter manufacturing for the low potential number of new jobs created. (Wasn't Ozzy a coal miner?).
Mayor Bloomberg - you missed the key reason that Trumps' effects are limited. Trump will be gone from office long before the term is up.
5
Lots of hopeful talk here but no discussion of the reality of replacing fossil fuels. The green proponents tend to focus on joining groups and discussing the importance of their work (and attacking any skeptics) and very little on rationally explaining how you replace fossil fuels which provide 86% of the world's energy (source IEA). Nuclear and hydro make up 11% more and renewables are 3%. A very long way to go to make the Paris Accord commitments. How exactly is this transition done? Hopeful, wishful, words don't actually accomplish the transition and shuttering a few coal plants is not going to have much impact.
16
The technical analysis from Stanford and others have laid out the necessary framework with existing technology, while recognizing that strategies will vary from state to state, and over time, as technologies evolve. What is missing is political will to resist the resistance, so the groups pushing for that are very important. While Mr. Bloomberg's assurances are important to forestall despair among the activists, it should be noted as well that the climatic tipping points beyond which we are doomed to runaway climate change are unknown, so public pressure to accelerate beyond the built-in progress Mr. Bloomberg describes remains urgent and essential. We are far from winning against this threat. The resistance being applied by Trump et.al. may still be the impediment that makes our comeback too little, too late.
2
Read about pioneering efforts of Germany, a major industrial power, and now China following suite. It's not immediate and phasing out coal is only a first step. The roadblocks created by this ignorant administration will cut funding for R&D and pilots costing US technological leadership, but would not stop global transition. The issue is that it may be too slow to avoid most severe impacts.
To the surprise of almost everyone, engines can run 24/7 on ambient heat, a huge untapped reservoir of Solar Energy, larger than Earth’s fossil fuel reserves. A Ford engine conversion proved the concept. See aesopinstitute.org
“The thermal energy content of the atmosphere, ocean, and upper crust is estimated to be more than 10,000 times that of the world's fossil fuel reserves, making it a potentially inexhaustible reservoir of green energy." Prof. Daniel Sheehan, University of San Diego
These engines can be made large of polymers since there is no combustion. 3-D printing can be used to fabricate most parts.
Replacing fossil fuels with inexpensive engines that run 24/7 can soon be accomplished as these engines can scale to large sizes, eventually replacing power plant turbines as well as wind and solar farms.
Groups of engines at utility substations will provide base load power 24/7.
Small units can replace rooftop panels and will provide free air conditioning as a bonus.
They open a path to rapid expansion of renewables.
The science is revolutionary as it exploits a loophole in the Second Law of Thermodynamics. Such a loophole was recently the subject of a paper by an international team that included scientists at Argonne National Laboratory.
Critics, such as a ranting troll who calls himself a (fake) Physics Review Board will be many - until this world changing work is verified by independent laboratories.
Tabletop demonstration engines will soon be produced.
“The thermal energy content of the atmosphere, ocean, and upper crust is estimated to be more than 10,000 times that of the world's fossil fuel reserves, making it a potentially inexhaustible reservoir of green energy." Prof. Daniel Sheehan, University of San Diego
These engines can be made large of polymers since there is no combustion. 3-D printing can be used to fabricate most parts.
Replacing fossil fuels with inexpensive engines that run 24/7 can soon be accomplished as these engines can scale to large sizes, eventually replacing power plant turbines as well as wind and solar farms.
Groups of engines at utility substations will provide base load power 24/7.
Small units can replace rooftop panels and will provide free air conditioning as a bonus.
They open a path to rapid expansion of renewables.
The science is revolutionary as it exploits a loophole in the Second Law of Thermodynamics. Such a loophole was recently the subject of a paper by an international team that included scientists at Argonne National Laboratory.
Critics, such as a ranting troll who calls himself a (fake) Physics Review Board will be many - until this world changing work is verified by independent laboratories.
Tabletop demonstration engines will soon be produced.
Mayor Bloomberg, I tip my hat to you. If enough people of your stature and dignity speak out the dark, dystopian world order that is peddled by the Trump administration will be only a bad dream from which we all will awake with a huge sigh of relief.
7
A much needed reminder that real power resides in the American people. Our individual commitment to clean air and water, and where and how we choose to spend our hard-earned dollars will drive businesses to do the same.
9
Great so there is no need for the regulations and the president is correct to eliminate them. There is no us commitment just an Obama one.
In other words, command-and-control measures to direct the economy, and our lives, on the matter of climate change are being more effectively met by market forces.
This is not surprising to most people and Bloomberg is delivering a message that many climate "deniers" have been stating for years. Unfortunately, such a common sense message is lost on the progressive left, reasonableness takes a back seat to socialist world views and the dogmatism of the cult of climate change.
Thank you, Mayor Mike!
This is not surprising to most people and Bloomberg is delivering a message that many climate "deniers" have been stating for years. Unfortunately, such a common sense message is lost on the progressive left, reasonableness takes a back seat to socialist world views and the dogmatism of the cult of climate change.
Thank you, Mayor Mike!
1
Even the goals set by the IPCC are too conservative. We're heading to well above 2 degrees C this century, probably 3 or 4, assuming we achieve the goals set forth in the Paris Agreement. And then there's the unknowns, like runaway global warming, which could be triggered at any point once we get past 1 degree C. So I agree Washington's influence is limited but we need to be doing more, not less, and any step back means that our quality of life will be further reduced on our way to extinction. See the Limits to Growth from 1972 - which talks about how population and resource use increase leads to the decline of complex systems.
2
California state government has announced that they will continue to enforce mileage standards for cars to be sold in that state. Other states appear to be following its example. The courts are likely to support their efforts to save energy and reduce pollution. That will do much to reduce "ring around the collar" that once forced businessmen and women to take an extra shirt to work for afternoon meetings. It will save lives despite the president's efforts to kill us.
The state efforts to limit pollution incidentally will save jobs in the automobile industry--saving fuel requires extra equipment that has to be manufactured.
The state efforts to limit pollution incidentally will save jobs in the automobile industry--saving fuel requires extra equipment that has to be manufactured.
3
Taking America out of the race for clean energy leadership will further play into the hands of China.
What is the game plan here?
If the trump cabal is not resisted we could become a third world country with lots of nuclear weapons ruled by oligarchs, just like today's Russia!
What is the game plan here?
If the trump cabal is not resisted we could become a third world country with lots of nuclear weapons ruled by oligarchs, just like today's Russia!
2
What truly makes America great is when we exhibit leadership. As Reagan stated, America is the shining city on the hill whose beacon light guides people everywhere. We are no longer a great country if we quit being leaders on matters of global importance.
Market forces may be stronger than government but when they act in concert, not in opposition, they are unstoppable. The countries that have policies that encourage clean energy will be the winners in this growing industry.
Market forces may be stronger than government but when they act in concert, not in opposition, they are unstoppable. The countries that have policies that encourage clean energy will be the winners in this growing industry.
4
"I wish President Trump and his administration would recognize the health, economic and environmental benefits of tackling climate change."
We all do, but this president makes No. 43 look like a deep thinker. Not going to happen.
We all do, but this president makes No. 43 look like a deep thinker. Not going to happen.
4
You make an important point, but you ignore another one, equally important. The switch from coal to natural gas is not a step forward. At the moment of ignition, yes, natural gas emits less carbon than burning coal does. But when you count all the methane that escapes into the atmosphere during the process of extracting and then transporting gas, there is no net benefit. Methane is 60 times worse than CO2 as a greenhouse gas. The only real solution to our predicament is to move away from ALL fossil fuels to renewables as soon as possible. I hope the fact that you have invested in hydrofracking hasn't clouded your judgment.
174
Yes Candide, keep telling yourself all is for the best, because of the market. It's a shame that the country is run by a weird cult of denialists, but no need to resist. Because the market.
Even though a bizarre denialism is the ideology of the US? All we have to do is support action by cities?
Thanks for trying though.
P.S. Oil not coals the climate warming fossil fuel that the Admin is determined to grow.
P.P.S
Even though a bizarre denialism is the ideology of the US? All we have to do is support action by cities?
Thanks for trying though.
P.S. Oil not coals the climate warming fossil fuel that the Admin is determined to grow.
P.P.S
The irony is delicious - the "free market"-posturing GOP running up against market forces in trying to turn the clock back fifty years. Of course, it's been only posturing all along. Cronyism is their real love, and Trump is a master of nothing if not cronyism.
9
Trump is all about making a buck, but only if there's an immediate payout. Successful businesspeople and visionaries like Mike Bloomberg recognize the importance of investing in the future for greater rewards. At a time when the president and his mindless acolytes seem committed to ruining the world as fast as they can, I'm greatly cheered by this piece.
12
I think this article gave some very interesting points.I thin people forget this is an actual issue, I really enjoyed reading this. It's nice to know that though Trump says he's done so much, we were already heading towards that direction of change. Though I don't think that it's accurate with them saying cities are only acting out of self-interest, I think that that's an overgeneralization. We always think that people are only thinking of their self-interest but I find that absurd to say. This article is very interesting all in all, I think Trump might think he's helping but a way it was already set for him.
Of course, a business mogul would postulate that the market will self correct allowing for positive environmental results. There is no doubt that cheaper, safer energy is preferable. This issue has been fraudulently used by Trump and the Koch brothers, et al, to influence a decisive segment of the electorate. Clinton shot herself in the foot by brazenly stating there would be many coal miners "out of work" if she were elected on the tide of clean energy.
Bloomberg' assertion that industry self corrects ignores prevailing political realities. Coal and Big Oil do not want to recede despite what should be seen as a scientific eventuality. The arguments presented by Bloomberg could/should have been more urgently presented last year to counter Trump's fear mongering. The 77,000 or so voters who clinched Trump's electoral victory might have gone another way.
Apparently, Trump's trumpeting "clean coal" is another misdirection play. Hopefully the premise presented here is correct that America does not have to become an environmental villain despite Trump's meddling and manipulation. We need truths as a nation not politicized disinformation.
Bloomberg' assertion that industry self corrects ignores prevailing political realities. Coal and Big Oil do not want to recede despite what should be seen as a scientific eventuality. The arguments presented by Bloomberg could/should have been more urgently presented last year to counter Trump's fear mongering. The 77,000 or so voters who clinched Trump's electoral victory might have gone another way.
Apparently, Trump's trumpeting "clean coal" is another misdirection play. Hopefully the premise presented here is correct that America does not have to become an environmental villain despite Trump's meddling and manipulation. We need truths as a nation not politicized disinformation.
1
Richard,
The truth is only "The Truth" if someone on the Left says it is, after that the search for "Truth" must end.
The truth is only "The Truth" if someone on the Left says it is, after that the search for "Truth" must end.
Great illustration by Mikey Burton
Trump is looking for a fight with these pipelines. Trump does not understand how much many people literally hate him, and some people are looking to fight him simply because they hate him. Trump may have politicized this issue like so many others in unexpected ways. I think this issue will be a fight.
Trump is looking for a fight with these pipelines. Trump does not understand how much many people literally hate him, and some people are looking to fight him simply because they hate him. Trump may have politicized this issue like so many others in unexpected ways. I think this issue will be a fight.
3
Very encouraging, makes sense.
When the new coal jobs fail to materialize, will the ex coal miners continue to support Trump ? I believe they will. It was foolish to believe that the president could revitalize the coal industry, it won't be any less foolish to blame the Democrats for preventing the return of coal.
4
It's pretty obvious that we elected the WRONG billionaire!
167
The right billionaire chose not to run because he didn't want to take votes away from Hillary. (Or something like that) it's unclear if he could have beaten trump. The country was obviously wanting change and it didn't matter if the change resembled Charles Manson or Daffy Duck.
2
Actually, Daffy Duck won (Or was that Donald Duck ?).
Hearty thanks to Mayor Bloomberg for this hopeful and encouraging column. It reminds us of how much power we all have to shape the environmental future, whatever may be going on in DC or MarALago. It also reminds us that facts matter and that, with reasonable oversight and public engagement, business can and will do things in the public interest.
5
I totally concur with this article. Let's not get so distracted by the Trump reality show!
2
Mr Bloomberg, I would have voted for you in a second had you run for President. Thank you for giving us hope in such a difficult time in our nations history.
1
I would like to thank Mayor Bloomberg for this thoughtful and thought-provoking article. In this opinion piece Mayor Bloomberg gives me a sense of hope for our environment at a time when I see the Trump administration kowtow to the interests of big business and thus rolling back important environmental standards. Thank you, Mayor Bloomberg.
2
Talk about "walking the walk", Billionaire Bloomberg did use the NYC subway system when he was in office; does this mitigate all of Bloomberg's profiteering from pollution-creating industries or routine rides on private planes? Not entirely, but it was really something that a person of his stature knew what message he was sending to his constituents by reliably using public transportation many times.
Many politicians could learn from that one small gesture.
Many politicians could learn from that one small gesture.
2
Add to this that every business, investor and institution that looks past a five year horizon is planning on a future that relies upon ever cleaner sources of energy.
3
Weather changes constantly. There are warm periods followed by cold spells. Trying to alter changing climate conditions is fruitless. Man can make insignificant alterations with gallons of monies, but is the little change worth the ultimate sacrifice?
Unfortunately "global warming' was a successor to the Ënvironmental Focus started in Stockholm by asome Canadians under Maurice Strong in 1972.
Cleaning up the environment is a real goal, and doesnt need much science. Started by industrialists, energy producers and businessmen, we loved our planet more than 95% of others. We work with it every day.
Turning it into a circus called global warming only attracted academics who hav failed to disprove what is clear to anyone. Municipal and industrial waste reduction is the highest goal.
Most contaminents are lost in the air and do little glbal damage Cities cause most of it. They must improve waste control doing it without Federal or international support. Stick to municipal politics and budgets. Educate cities to clean up.
Trump has a limited oversight in this. Statistics pumped out of fake science should cover cities, not just the Arctic. Then watch the change.
Climates will continue to change since time immemorial. Correcting the mess where humans populate the heaviest (in cities) will do the most good. So to all the mayors of the world, the challenge is uniquely yours!
I was the first person to drive 150,000 miles around the world in a Land Rover, covering five continents. The main pollution I expeienced was around major cities. That drove me to help Maurice found the movement 45 years ago. It has been lost. It needs to be kick-started again.
Cleaning up the environment is a real goal, and doesnt need much science. Started by industrialists, energy producers and businessmen, we loved our planet more than 95% of others. We work with it every day.
Turning it into a circus called global warming only attracted academics who hav failed to disprove what is clear to anyone. Municipal and industrial waste reduction is the highest goal.
Most contaminents are lost in the air and do little glbal damage Cities cause most of it. They must improve waste control doing it without Federal or international support. Stick to municipal politics and budgets. Educate cities to clean up.
Trump has a limited oversight in this. Statistics pumped out of fake science should cover cities, not just the Arctic. Then watch the change.
Climates will continue to change since time immemorial. Correcting the mess where humans populate the heaviest (in cities) will do the most good. So to all the mayors of the world, the challenge is uniquely yours!
I was the first person to drive 150,000 miles around the world in a Land Rover, covering five continents. The main pollution I expeienced was around major cities. That drove me to help Maurice found the movement 45 years ago. It has been lost. It needs to be kick-started again.
1
I hope Mr. Bloomberg is right.
In the interim, we can count the early deaths due to air pollution under Trump in hopes of stimulating some accountability.
See https://www.careforcrashvictims.com/trump-clocks/
and see https://www.careforcrashvictims.com/category/blog/
In the interim, we can count the early deaths due to air pollution under Trump in hopes of stimulating some accountability.
See https://www.careforcrashvictims.com/trump-clocks/
and see https://www.careforcrashvictims.com/category/blog/
Well there's something new. Another 'misguided' Trump policy this time for the rollback of environmental protections. The suggestion that the private sector will abide by Paris 2015 commitments without the concomitant regulatory pressure coming down from Washington is at best naive.
If however there is a kernel of truth in it, then the private sector should join environmental groups & consumers to actively lobby against any rollback of environmental protections being put forward by the Trump administration.
If however there is a kernel of truth in it, then the private sector should join environmental groups & consumers to actively lobby against any rollback of environmental protections being put forward by the Trump administration.
4
Good point: economics prevails. In the U.S. that means cleaner fuel. But elsewhere it might steer them to dirtier fuel. If our withdrawal from the Paris accord gives them pretext to also withdraw, then the planet loses. (Sadly, too many conservatives don't think they're part of this planet).
2
In the mid 1970's "energy Crunch" and "oil embargo", before the world was aware that our use of hydrocarbon fuels was warming our planet , the magazine Scientific American ran an article which combined the outlooks of many scientists in physics, chemistry and research into energy production.
Many things were said and disputed but one caught my eye: It was computed by economists and scientists that when solar power cells could reach the point of converting at least 22% of "insolation" or infalling sunlight, to electricity, that it would cease to be economical to burn oil.Solar would be cheaper.
We are now beginning to see a few solar panel manufacturers push their panels to this "tippping point". In Hawaii, the power company is threatening solar power equipped home owners that if they turn on their collectors and cease using "grid" power from oil, they will be cut off from the grid. What this means is that desperate electricity sellers burning oil, gas and coal, are fearful they'll lose their monopoly and that entire sections of well equipped solar cell homeowners in exurban areas will be able to drop off the grid, and stop paying them.
But it seems the few things holding back adoption of more solar power are cloudy days, lack of storage at night and cities where there is little space for solar cells and battery storage.
However, once the 22 or 24% conversion point is passed, solar energy will become cheaper than hydrocarbons at least at mid 1970's prices.
Many things were said and disputed but one caught my eye: It was computed by economists and scientists that when solar power cells could reach the point of converting at least 22% of "insolation" or infalling sunlight, to electricity, that it would cease to be economical to burn oil.Solar would be cheaper.
We are now beginning to see a few solar panel manufacturers push their panels to this "tippping point". In Hawaii, the power company is threatening solar power equipped home owners that if they turn on their collectors and cease using "grid" power from oil, they will be cut off from the grid. What this means is that desperate electricity sellers burning oil, gas and coal, are fearful they'll lose their monopoly and that entire sections of well equipped solar cell homeowners in exurban areas will be able to drop off the grid, and stop paying them.
But it seems the few things holding back adoption of more solar power are cloudy days, lack of storage at night and cities where there is little space for solar cells and battery storage.
However, once the 22 or 24% conversion point is passed, solar energy will become cheaper than hydrocarbons at least at mid 1970's prices.
9
In Belgium, more and more houses and buildings have solar panels. Around the airport in Brussels there are large fields of solar panels to provide power to the airport. And this in a country not exactly known for sunny days! As soon as batteries that can store the generated power become affordable, that will be the point where you can become self-sufficient.
2
Quite right. The Clean Power initiative was no more than a gentle nudge to accelerate the trend improvement in carbon efficiency of the preceding couple of decades by one or two percent per year. That in turn reflected not government mandates, but the economic advantages of natural gas, falling costs of renewables, advances in smart grid technologies, and more general environmental and security concerns. Go ahead Pruitt, give it your best shot.
2
Agree. And President Obama likewise had little influence on US's reduction in greenhouse gas emissions - that was (and continues to be) driven by market forces favoring cleaner-burning natural gas over coal. But Obama can be credited for not impeding progress in natural gas production and pipeline construction, so in that regard, his forbearance did indeed help to reduce US carbon emissions.
4
Really he opposed fracking.
I fully agree, but also think a little more modesty is called for. Calling the US a leader in climate change is laughable, US emission per capita is over twice (!) that of the EU and second only to China, whose leadership at least recognises the problem. It is so bad that climate goals, typically expressed in % reduction, are really easily met by a few quick wins. This is the main reason why the US can still meet its climate goals despite a counterproductive federal government.
7
Thank you, Mr. Bloomberg, for this article. I had become quite discouraged about our commitment to clean air and water and to the Paris climate agreement because of Donald Trump's destructive environmental policies. Having read your article, I am now more confident about the environmental future of our country and feel more certain that the slow but certain replacement of fossil fuels with renewable energy sources will continue. Donald Trump's rational for eliminating environmental regulations is that all regulations are job killers. It is unfortunate that politicians like him never seem to recognize that we can have a robust economy and also enough regulations to protect the environment (and the consumer).
11
That was a...breath of fresh air! Thanks for the encouragement. As an example of local contribution to clean air, my town is turning a closed landfill into a solar park. It will be linked to the power grid next month.
32
Paris was not enough. Keeping to 2C this century is not enough. We need more, and he Trump administration will be hurting rather than helping.
Other good news is that Trump's influence through the bully pulpit is dead outside the US. With Trump administration's view on climate change is so far outside the mainstream and its credibility is buried under a torrent of lies, Trump is tuned out outside of the US -- except for the potential risk that he will start a war (trade or otherwise).
Other good news is that Trump's influence through the bully pulpit is dead outside the US. With Trump administration's view on climate change is so far outside the mainstream and its credibility is buried under a torrent of lies, Trump is tuned out outside of the US -- except for the potential risk that he will start a war (trade or otherwise).
7
Good we don't want others following us.
1
Unlike fake billionaire trump, real billionaire Bloomberg understands that long term trends and planning are better for business than short term, short sighted, maximize profits today the heck with the future behavior so prevalent in so many corporations and clearly on display in the Wall Street/Oil business dominated White House.
Coal isn't coming back, oil is on the way out (slowly). Real leaders recognize this and work to usher in the future.
Coal isn't coming back, oil is on the way out (slowly). Real leaders recognize this and work to usher in the future.
64
Yes, Peter, and real leaders lead for the good of the people, not themselves and whoever their (current) cronies are.
An accurate an hopeful message, Mr. Bloomberg. Moreover, progress received a boost when Black Rock, the world's largest asset manager, put corporate CEOs on notice about the systemic risks to our prosperity of ignoring climate change and its consequences (see the link below).
Concerned individuals can vote with their investments by "cleansing" their portfolios of dirty fossil fuel securities. By doing so, they will mitigate risks of holding assets of "questionable value" on the balance sheets of oil and coal companies. Exxon Mobil's $2 billion write down of its dry gas operations in the Rocky Mountains this past January may just be a harbinger of things to come.
http://www.independent.co.uk/news/business/news/climate-change-blackrock...
Concerned individuals can vote with their investments by "cleansing" their portfolios of dirty fossil fuel securities. By doing so, they will mitigate risks of holding assets of "questionable value" on the balance sheets of oil and coal companies. Exxon Mobil's $2 billion write down of its dry gas operations in the Rocky Mountains this past January may just be a harbinger of things to come.
http://www.independent.co.uk/news/business/news/climate-change-blackrock...
10
This is the real Citizens United. Aggregate individual choice outside the ballot box can do what it failed to do at the ballot box. There are many things each of us can do to help, some obvious and others not so:
-- Meatless Monday. A vegetarian option even once a week reduces the heavy burden meat production has on energy and water consumption and gives you a health benefit as well.
-- Upcycle. Reusing items in new ways saves everything. There is a reason Grandma has a hooked rug made from old clothes in her living room.
-- Donate, never discard. If you have serviceable clothing or items you do not want or cannot use, donating them to charities saves others in economic distress and gives you a tax deduction at the same time.
-- Spend wisely. Consider your purchases carefully. Are you buying more "wants" and less "needs". Along with a larger mortgage or loan, is that bigger home or larger car getting you value commensurate with its larger climate footprint? Do you even need that second (or third) car?
-- Buy a reusable water bottle. Fill it from you own municipal source and never buy water they must be shipped to you. Also, consider abandoning those things masquerading as healthy choices that are just water in disguise--Dasani, Vitamin Water, sports drinks.
-- Walk if you can, rideshare when possible, drive if you must.
-- Meatless Monday. A vegetarian option even once a week reduces the heavy burden meat production has on energy and water consumption and gives you a health benefit as well.
-- Upcycle. Reusing items in new ways saves everything. There is a reason Grandma has a hooked rug made from old clothes in her living room.
-- Donate, never discard. If you have serviceable clothing or items you do not want or cannot use, donating them to charities saves others in economic distress and gives you a tax deduction at the same time.
-- Spend wisely. Consider your purchases carefully. Are you buying more "wants" and less "needs". Along with a larger mortgage or loan, is that bigger home or larger car getting you value commensurate with its larger climate footprint? Do you even need that second (or third) car?
-- Buy a reusable water bottle. Fill it from you own municipal source and never buy water they must be shipped to you. Also, consider abandoning those things masquerading as healthy choices that are just water in disguise--Dasani, Vitamin Water, sports drinks.
-- Walk if you can, rideshare when possible, drive if you must.
55
It is called Mr. Market, it works.
And when shopping, buy Blue! Right now the Republicans may have the political power in this country, but by a large margin blue zones have the money. Pay attention to where products are made and support the sensible U.S. zones. Or Canada!
Mikey, 7,500 dead? Why didn't the Fake News report this? If I'd have known that, I would have bought a smaller car, turned my thermostat down to 62, and gotten a vasectomy, swearing off any future children who might leave a carbon footprint.
3
If we know anything about America, it is that major corporations run the country, not the President. Thus, if major corporations choose cheaper energy that is better for the planet, politicians will follow. Policy follows the money in America.
23
Airborne coal pollution is killing Chinese and Indian people with smog-induced diseases. These people wear masks over their noses and mouths to keep out the pollution from their industries. And yet our 45th President believes that coal is the way to go forward to produce the dirtiest form of energy. Trump and his Republican followers and idolators believe that climate change is a hoax. Some hoax! The thinning antarctic ice shelves are calving, the polar bears gaunt with lack of food, the coral reefs bleaching white as skulls all over the world under the warming seas. Thank you for your piece on "Climate Progress, With or Without Trump", Michael Bloomberg! Please, please consider running for the Presidency against Trump in 2020? Even those of us who are not dyed-in-the-wool Republicans would vote for you. Trump's promises made during his demented 2016 presidential campaign cannot and will not be kept. Mayor Bloomberg, we the American people need a "Climate of Hope".
54
Imagine if the hand loomers, the finishers and the hundreds of other skilled workers who were being ruined and unemployed , had won, and the Luddite rebellion had made England and Scotland a nation of hand powered , small artisans, shopkeepers and professionals who eschewed steam and all mechanical labor shortcuts. We may laugh now but, if this had happened, there might not have been a British empire. The world would probably speak German or Russian today instead of English, and a European union would probably have been rammed down the Continent's throats, at the end of German bayonets. We might still be fighting terrorist battles against the latest Kaiser. America would never have fought in Europe and would bring up the tail.
England would have become a minor, second tier power, dependent on it's shipping, but would never have had the money to control 25% of the earth as it actually did.
Trying to hold back the flow of events like new forms of energy production, is making a war on the people's pocketbooks and insisting, as did many British manufacturers in the 1890's that "What was good for my grandfather in 1829, is good enough for me!"
That is how England went from being the No. 1 manufacturer of industrial goods and services , to an also ran. ( Germany didn't help, by constantly making wars when they might have got what they wanted, peacefully).
Trump is playing at holding back the tide. It may get him cheers but the water will rise as it pleases.
England would have become a minor, second tier power, dependent on it's shipping, but would never have had the money to control 25% of the earth as it actually did.
Trying to hold back the flow of events like new forms of energy production, is making a war on the people's pocketbooks and insisting, as did many British manufacturers in the 1890's that "What was good for my grandfather in 1829, is good enough for me!"
That is how England went from being the No. 1 manufacturer of industrial goods and services , to an also ran. ( Germany didn't help, by constantly making wars when they might have got what they wanted, peacefully).
Trump is playing at holding back the tide. It may get him cheers but the water will rise as it pleases.
28
The water would rise anyways. This earth operates on a time scale unfathomable to beings whose lives last mere decades. The climate has altered radically over Earth's 4 billion year lifespan. Even if our presence on this earth is causing the climate to change, that's nothing new. Cyanobacteria pumped enough oxygen into the atmosphere when they evolved into being that they caused the Great Oxygen Event, which not only wiped out an incredible number of species, but plunged the world into the Huronian Glaciation. What is happening is nothing new. Let the Climate change as it will. It is arrogant to think we can force this world to stop and bend to our will.
1
Spencer,
You are 20,000 years too late. That "boat has sailed" the water had risen 120 meters before Ned Ludd and his followers tried to stop progress.
Had Ned been sucessful we would have the same end that the dinosaurs met to look forward to. Some day a large rock will fall from the sky and really spoil the envirement and us!
You are 20,000 years too late. That "boat has sailed" the water had risen 120 meters before Ned Ludd and his followers tried to stop progress.
Had Ned been sucessful we would have the same end that the dinosaurs met to look forward to. Some day a large rock will fall from the sky and really spoil the envirement and us!
1
Thank you for this this thoughtful piece that gives me hope. If only you would have run for President Mr. Bloomberg!
108
I'm reading Naomi Klein's This Changes Everything.
Bloomberg invests in fracking so he has some self-interest as he alludes to in the piece.
Klein's an eye-opener in that true change has to not use any fossil fuels.
I highly recommend the book to all.
Bloomberg invests in fracking so he has some self-interest as he alludes to in the piece.
Klein's an eye-opener in that true change has to not use any fossil fuels.
I highly recommend the book to all.
17
The leaders at the of the climate conference in Morocco stated they will proceed without the US.
4
I wonder if the people who support Trump's policies on fossil fuels would use tobacco if he told them that research linking smoking to cancer and lung disease was false? But ultimately I think he knows what he is doing isn't going to help coal miners or change the industry. He just wants to let them think he is doing something for them. And unlike tobacco and pesticides which we have been selling to the rest of the world when these products became unmarketable in the U S, other countries won't buy American coal because they already realize the emissions from their own coal plants are smothering their own people. The rest of the world gets it, but not the leaders of the free world. But like the coal plants, leaders like Trump and McConnell are coming to the end of their useful political lives and will soon be taken off line.
95
Taken off line? I like that. Thanks. Counting on it.
Jimbo,
Government at all levels sells and profits from the sale of tobacco, pot, alcohol, gasoline and various forms of gambling, to its citizens here in the U.S. Those same governments have known of the downsides of these sales for generations. In fact the require deadly warnings on the containers yet they still profit from them! This was long before Trump became President
Government at all levels sells and profits from the sale of tobacco, pot, alcohol, gasoline and various forms of gambling, to its citizens here in the U.S. Those same governments have known of the downsides of these sales for generations. In fact the require deadly warnings on the containers yet they still profit from them! This was long before Trump became President
1
Actually MIT's Dr. RIchard Lindzen, a Koch brother ally, does (or did) smoke and he says the research linking smoking to cancer and lung disease is false. How a brilliant mathematician (does modeling of atmospheric physics - like physics not chemistry) can so misunderstand biological research and climate research is bizarre to me.
And what about the standards for car emissions? The standards that Obama set have been lowered. More air pollution from cars.
9
I'm hopeful on the car emission issue. If the Big Three want to sell cars in California, they will have to meet California's standards. The same is true of exporting vehicles to other countries with tougher emission standards. If Detroit is not prepared to meet those standards either in America or in other countries, then imports of Japanese and Korean cars will replace them. This is not a way to create jobs, but it's a good show for Mr. Trump.
And of course, he and his ilk will blame "unfair competition" for the problem.
And of course, he and his ilk will blame "unfair competition" for the problem.
6
I think one of the points here is that we, as consumers, still have a great deal of power. Just because mandatory emission standards are being lowered doesn't mean we now have to buy gas guzzlers. In fact, if we make a point of choosing high efficiency cars, the manufacturers will get the idea and make more of them.
I'm still strongly in favor of government mandating improvements in fuel efficiency. We need something to control the actions of the selfish. But the larger point is that we, individually, still have the power to make our own right decisions and be a positive influence.
I'm still strongly in favor of government mandating improvements in fuel efficiency. We need something to control the actions of the selfish. But the larger point is that we, individually, still have the power to make our own right decisions and be a positive influence.
8
London, Paris, Mexico City and Seoul have announced that they will employ car emissions rating systems to empower consumers to lower emissions in cities.
Local governments and consumers still have the power to make more sustainable choices—singularly and collectively.
Local governments and consumers still have the power to make more sustainable choices—singularly and collectively.
Gina McCarthy, Director of the EPA under President Obama, said this in an interview the other day about Trump's rollback of the Clean Power Plan. Not sure of the numbers but about 16 states had filed lawsuits against the Plan in 2011 saying the rules were too stringent and unconstitutional.
There were certain emissions standards to be met by 2022. Now the irony, a number of the states that sued are already meeting the new requirements. When asked why they still have the lawsuits open. Their answer, on principle!
Likely they were red states and knew the right thing to do to protect the health of their citizens. But are caught in the vortex of the Republican climate denial platform of their party. Rather sad, but we are making progress ever so slowly.
There were certain emissions standards to be met by 2022. Now the irony, a number of the states that sued are already meeting the new requirements. When asked why they still have the lawsuits open. Their answer, on principle!
Likely they were red states and knew the right thing to do to protect the health of their citizens. But are caught in the vortex of the Republican climate denial platform of their party. Rather sad, but we are making progress ever so slowly.
20
I really like the "with or without Trump" concept applied here -- the irony of this administration is that in its effort to defund everything from sanctuary cities to social programs it is in essence eroding its own power -- once everyone figures out how to "work around government" it will no longer have the power to inflict its misery. People need a stable government -- not one that threatens core values every four years -- not one that has a constant flow of corruption -- not gridlock. Instead of pouring billions into political campaigns Americans need to keep their money and put it where it can do some good.
134
This column seems to absolve Trump and the US from any responsibility to abide by a resolve to live greener and act responsibly toward protecting our planet. Sorry....DJT either has or will remove almost all protections, from removing EPA bans on poisoning our water and air, killing Obama's auto emissions restrictions, opening protected lands for fossil fuel production. Supposedly this will renew industrial productivity (never mind the tax breaks for the wealthy and large corporations). There are two very immoral sins being committed. First, regarding the climate: If fires are burning in each room of house has a lit match, and all except one are put out, the house will still burn down. Secondly, even his withdrawal from the commitment has more to do with coddling the financially elite, of which he is a member, than any desire to see employment figures rise (renewable energy is an opportunity, not a job-killer).
Trump gets no pass from me...and climate protections may evolve without us as a nation participating in an active way. But without proactive participation, it will creep along instead of making full-blown headway. And without the US participating, we are slowing it down as well as missing great job development opportunities.
Trump gets no pass from me...and climate protections may evolve without us as a nation participating in an active way. But without proactive participation, it will creep along instead of making full-blown headway. And without the US participating, we are slowing it down as well as missing great job development opportunities.
39
This is a well-written position of an influential fellow American who has gained respect in climate circles for his climate activities for cities, particularly also his NYC climate plan.
With that experience and his business and government experience he would be a favored person to make people think about bold and transformative approaches to dealing with the looming climate catastrophe such as proposed in Verhagen 2012 "The Tierra Solution: Resolving the climate crisis through monetary transformation". There the conceptual, institutional, ethical and strategic dimensions of a carbon-based international monetary system are presented with its monetary standard of a specific tonnage of CO2 per person and a balance of payments system that accounts for both financial and ecological debts and credits. They are updated at www.timun.net. About this bold approach Bill McKibben wrote in May 17, 2011: “The further into the global warming area we go, the more physics and politics narrows our possible paths of action. Here’s a very cogent and well-argued account of one of the remaining possibilities.”
With that experience and his business and government experience he would be a favored person to make people think about bold and transformative approaches to dealing with the looming climate catastrophe such as proposed in Verhagen 2012 "The Tierra Solution: Resolving the climate crisis through monetary transformation". There the conceptual, institutional, ethical and strategic dimensions of a carbon-based international monetary system are presented with its monetary standard of a specific tonnage of CO2 per person and a balance of payments system that accounts for both financial and ecological debts and credits. They are updated at www.timun.net. About this bold approach Bill McKibben wrote in May 17, 2011: “The further into the global warming area we go, the more physics and politics narrows our possible paths of action. Here’s a very cogent and well-argued account of one of the remaining possibilities.”
Thanks, Mr. Bloomberg, for the reminder that we, the people, still have the power to direct our lives. We must not let ourselves give in to fear, self-pity and that whole range of emotion that results in lethargy and apathy.
We must push on with our own pursuits and goals, despite the nonsense in the WH and Congress.
In the past America was in the lead in so many respects. And that is because of the nature of the American people.
So let's keep pushing forward ... and while we're at it, let's see how fast we can bring down the backwards fools in Washington who are trying to return us to the dark ages.
We must push on with our own pursuits and goals, despite the nonsense in the WH and Congress.
In the past America was in the lead in so many respects. And that is because of the nature of the American people.
So let's keep pushing forward ... and while we're at it, let's see how fast we can bring down the backwards fools in Washington who are trying to return us to the dark ages.
11
And this is a man who wants to create jobs? I don't think so. A generation of young adults who work for industries supporting the need for clean air, water will lose their jobs. Mother Earth will continue to lose her lust.
50
Bloomberg is right in so far that markets have been turning away from coal to cleaner sources. And, in that sense, Trump, or whoever sits atop Washington, is almost irrelevant. This is why Bloomberg writes, "There is virtually nothing the Trump administration can do to stop advanced technology and consumer preferences from driving down coal’s market share still further."
But, in the meantime, Trump can act and look like a fool. And I am perfectly fine with that except that he now represents me and other Americans. In the process, he threatens American leadership and influence around the world. And that is unacceptable.
But, in the meantime, Trump can act and look like a fool. And I am perfectly fine with that except that he now represents me and other Americans. In the process, he threatens American leadership and influence around the world. And that is unacceptable.
478
Wholeheartedly agree. Also in the meantime are the citizens of coal producing states that were duped into thinking their industry will be,making a come back.
Excellent op-ed!
For Trump and his gang, however, coal is not the objective. Even climate change is only incidental to the real goal: deregulation as a prelude to unfettered plunder.
The only thing Trump is really interested in mining is the opportunity to rile up his base with yet another factually vacuous rant against Obama...who happens to be Black.
That's the signature feint of the Trump cabal: create and the blame villains in the form of The Other while all the while working off- stage to set up for plunder.
Sad that in the case of coal, what will actually be plundered is the social safety net currently holding up most of our coal regions. (See Krugman today.)
Trump is waging a vicious form of racist and xenophobic class warfare and he's willing to sacrifice the planet in order to win.
For Trump and his gang, however, coal is not the objective. Even climate change is only incidental to the real goal: deregulation as a prelude to unfettered plunder.
The only thing Trump is really interested in mining is the opportunity to rile up his base with yet another factually vacuous rant against Obama...who happens to be Black.
That's the signature feint of the Trump cabal: create and the blame villains in the form of The Other while all the while working off- stage to set up for plunder.
Sad that in the case of coal, what will actually be plundered is the social safety net currently holding up most of our coal regions. (See Krugman today.)
Trump is waging a vicious form of racist and xenophobic class warfare and he's willing to sacrifice the planet in order to win.
99
"....consumers are demanding energy from sources that don't poison their air and water...."
At least consumers attempting to contend with the world using rationality. Those who do not value rational thought vote for Mr. Trump and believe that climate science is a hoax.
At least consumers attempting to contend with the world using rationality. Those who do not value rational thought vote for Mr. Trump and believe that climate science is a hoax.
27
How I wish, Mr. Bloomberh, that you had ran instead.
18
Mr. Bloomberg, here's the bad news: this president doesn't care about climate change. Remember, it's a hoax. Sure, coal plants and the president knew that but wasn't about to let a simple fact of reality get in the way of scaring up enough votes to win the election. The 45th told Appalachian voters that the coal industry was indeed "economically viable" and that jobs would return and be a boon to their state and counties. Just trust him, he said.
This president wants to unravel the Paris Accord on climate change simply because President Obama committed to the agreement and the 45th only wants to undo the previous administration's legacy of progress at home and abroad.
This president wants to unravel the Paris Accord on climate change simply because President Obama committed to the agreement and the 45th only wants to undo the previous administration's legacy of progress at home and abroad.
35
Thank you for this, Mr. Bloomberg. It put a big gust of wind in my sails this morning.
261
The starting point of 2005 for meeting our carbon goals is a deception. 2005 was a peak year for emissions and they have declined or stayed steady every year since. Backdating our starting point gives us a 10% head start. So if we cut emissions by 15%, we will claim to have met our 25% goal. It seems to me that if you want to reduce emissions you use a truthful starting point. If we don't really meet the 25% goal, who benefits by pretending that we do? Not us.
3
Agreed Mayor Bloomberg. It's going to be up to all of us for a few years to make climate change a priority in our lives. The resistance to the Grand Old Pirates starts with us all as individuals. Everyone needs to consider just how they can contribute. A hybrid car? Vote for carbon taxes at the state level like my state of Washington. Spend your money with the companies that are moving forward on renewables. Not to mention the actions we all can take that we haven't thought up yet.
We the People in order to form a more perfect Union..... will beat the prostitutes for the fossil fuel industry. Keep Resisting.
We the People in order to form a more perfect Union..... will beat the prostitutes for the fossil fuel industry. Keep Resisting.
157
Perfect way to start the day! it's raining in Syracuse NY, washing away the fears of the day. President Bloomberg has a nice ring.
3
Mr. Bloomberg is absolutely correct in saying that despite Donald Trump's photo op where he was surrounded by coal miners, the industry is in its last throes. And this isn;t because of government regulation but because of technology, as Paul Krugman has noted repeatedly. Earlier this week, The Times wrote about how driverless trucks are being introduced to open pit coal mining, eliminating another job category in the industry.
The president's trumpeting a return of coal notwithstanding, local and state governments as well as businesses and consumers are pushing an environmental agenda that will save the planet even as Donald Trump rushes to destroy it.
The president's trumpeting a return of coal notwithstanding, local and state governments as well as businesses and consumers are pushing an environmental agenda that will save the planet even as Donald Trump rushes to destroy it.
89
You are right that technology has been a significant factor in the decline of the coal industry. Another important factor is that coal can't compete with the much cheaper natural gas, and burning natural gas produces about 1/2 of the harmful emissions. Unless Trump starts having the federal government buy massive quantities of coal (I wouldn't be surprised if he did), there is no way he can save the coal industry.
1
Ahh...so the market provided a solution. Welcome to the Repiblican party.
Do we know they were really coal miners? Maybe he hired actors again.
I'm waiting for the next photo op where he is surrounded by grizzled looking men holding scrimshaw as he announces he is bringing whaling back to Nantucket!
I'm waiting for the next photo op where he is surrounded by grizzled looking men holding scrimshaw as he announces he is bringing whaling back to Nantucket!
Don't underestimate Don's lies
His Munchausen whoppers surprise
His hard set stonewalling
Backed by caterwauling
A huge drag on progress comprise.
Our battle must be more intense
'Gainst lies that are lacking in sense,
Trump's retreat to the past
As a roadblock is vast
The cost to our future, immense.
His Munchausen whoppers surprise
His hard set stonewalling
Backed by caterwauling
A huge drag on progress comprise.
Our battle must be more intense
'Gainst lies that are lacking in sense,
Trump's retreat to the past
As a roadblock is vast
The cost to our future, immense.
140
Mr. Eisenberg, you are on a roll. Keep it up.