EGEE 401
Energy in a Changing World

Carbon Tax or Fee

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Like cap and trade, a "carbon tax" or "carbon fee" is a market-based approach for reducing greenhouse gas emissions designed to correct the "market failure that exists when the value of environmental damages is not included in the market price of fossil fuels." (Not required, but for more good reading with a strong economic perspective, see Options and Considerations for a Federal Carbon Tax.) 

Reading Assignment

 

Visit the Carbon Tax Center and read What's a Carbon Tax?

One of the most widely known advocacy groups for a carbon tax in the USA is the Citizens' Climate Lobby. This group works for the adoption of a national Carbon Feed and Dividend (CF&D), "a revenue-neutral carbon tax with all revenue returned directly to households, will reduce greenhouse gas emissions 52% below 1990 levels within 20 years while growing the economy and saving lives." Key to their mission is use of the word "fee" rather than "tax" and the concept of "revenue neutral." Over the years I have watched this group grow through consistent messaging, widespread public empowerment and engagement, and persistent lobbying efforts. Their message is highly persuasive. Read for yourself...!

Reading Assignment

Vist the Citizens' Climate Lobby.

  • Read About CCL
  • Under "Our Climate Solution," read The Basics of Carbon Fee & Dividend and scan The Policy and FAQs
  • Under "Take Action," read the Support the Climate Solutions Caucus.
  • It is not required that you click through on any additional info, but certainly feel free to do so!

From The Atlantic, read The Republican Carbon Tax Is Republican, Say Republicans