Energy & Environment

Global warming is no longer an academic question for scientists to ponder. It’s a very real crisis that requires Congress to take leadership and States and citizens to take action. 

Global warming is the biggest generational issue of our time.  We must take a comprehensive approach to dealing with this problem and come up with innovative solutions to curb the damage already done and to help preserve what is left for future generations.  This is going to require unique partnerships between government, universities and companies forging new technologies. Environmental protection is vital for our health and security.

Reduce Greenhouse Gases: Scientists and an increasing numbers of business leaders agree, the best way to slow global warming is to reduce carbon dioxide emissions. There is scientific consensus that worldwide greenhouse gas emissions must be reduced by 80% by 2050 in order to avoid the most dangerous effects of global climate change. I support a cap on total emissions from a wide range of sources including electric power, transportation, industry, and commercial sectors.

Make Polluters Pay: Greenhouse gas emitters should buy and pay for their pollution. Proceeds should be used to reduce the costs borne by consumers and to continue critical research to combat global warming.

Use Renewable Resources: New sources of power—from wind to solar to hydrogen fuel cells—need to be more fully developed. We must continue funding for alternative energy research and products that both spur our economy and protect our environment. For example, Nuvera Fuel Cells in Billerica and Ballard Power Systems in Lowell are leading the way in developing both commercial grade hydrogen and methanol fuel cell technologies. Supporting research and development efforts in the district are a win-win proposition.

Drive the Environmental Economy: Over a century ago, the waters of the Merrimack River helped drive the Industrial Revolution. Ending our addiction to foreign oil is going to require a similar revolution—and bring with it a wide range of opportunities. Going green does not have to come at the expense of revenue.  This is a great opportunity for companies to invent new technologies and create jobs.

Become a Global Leader: The United States has long been a leader in technology and innovation, but we are in danger of falling behind. We must lead the way in new technologies that address global warming and not penalize states that are doing it faster than the country as a whole.

Consume Less and Conserve More:  America contributes about 30 percent of the world's greenhouse gas emissions but comprises only 5 percent of the world's population. This needs to change.

Reduce our Dependence on Foreign Oil: Right now we import 60% of our oil from some of the most unstable regions in the world. This is not good for our national security or our wallets.  Solutions such as drilling in pristine wilderness areas are not going to solve our energy crises, and will only do more harm than good.  We must look to the root of the problem; finding alternative energy and using less.
I am committed to supporting legislation that leads to these solutions and protects our environment in the 5th District and throughout the country.