Baldassare, M. (2023, July 20). California Is a Model for Climate Change Action
When International Efforts Fall Short. Carnegie Endowment for International
Peace. Retrieved July 28, 2023, from https://carnegieendowment.org/2023/07/
20/california-is-model-for-climate-change-action-when-international-efforts-fall-sho
rt-pub-90245
Global warming is a pressing issue across the globe, prompting many states to pass legislation concerning climate change matters, predominantly in the U.S. and China. Moreover, according to Baldassare’s article, 68% of Californians prefer that the state government make its own policies concerning global warming, separate from the federal government. Additionally, Baldassare asserts that “…eight in ten say that addressing global climate change is an important concern to them personally.” Therefore, these individuals support stricter environmental laws and regulations in California. For instance, forty-three percent are willing to spend more on renewable electricity sources, and eight percent currently own electric vehicles. This demonstrates the constantly evolving attitudes toward climate change that have risen in the past few decades.
Every environment is impacted by various external factors, many of which humans influence. Namely, we are responsible for deforestation, the burning of fossil fuels, pollution, and overpopulation. Our severe ecological footprint has led to ocean acidification, soil erosion, poor air quality, undrinkable water, and countless species extinctions. Additionally, 97% of scientists conclude that humans are the ultimate cause of global warming. Therefore, among other states, California has adopted several environmental regulatory laws in an attempt to reduce our threatening ecological impact. The California government has established organizations with the intent to restore and protect the environment, as well as secure public health. Moreover, this article explores Californians’ strong opinions on the necessity of mitigating climate change.
It is great to hear that environmental efforts are really picking up steam in California. I hope that more people in other states are inspired by California to adopt greener practices. What methods do you think are most impactful in terms of convincing more people of the importance of protecting the environment? I ask this because I find it interesting that California is so supportive out of all the 50 states- you would think that most others would be very supportive as well. Is there any specific policies that helped foster this?
Personally, I think that education and awareness campaigns are crucial to convincing more people of the importance of protecting the environment. Unfortunately, though, I don’t think that is enough to convince everyone, which is why policies and regulations must be implemented to ensure the protection of the environment. As of now, California enforces the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), which promotes sustainable land use planning. Additionally, we support the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Program, which is evident by the significant number of electric cars on California’s roads and highways.