Environmental Sustainability

“A nation that destroys its soils destroys itself. Forests are the lungs of our land, purifying the air and giving fresh strength to our people.”

– Franklin D. Roosevelt

The Problems:

• Climate Change: Reliance on fossil fuels and unsustainable practices contribute to climate change.
• Pollution: Inadequate regulations lead to pollution and environmental degradation.
• Environmental Injustice: Marginalized communities often bear the brunt of environmental harm.

Our Solutions:

• Green New Deal: Invest in renewable energy, green infrastructure, and sustainable agriculture to combat climate change and create millions of green jobs.
• Environmental Regulations: Strengthen regulations to reduce pollution, protect natural resources, and ensure environmental justice for all communities.
• Land Protection: Preserve land as urban areas grow to ensure that there are plenty of resources available for farming, environmental sustainability, and outdoor recreation. Include communal farms and parks in urban development.

Our Reasoning:

• Climate Action: Investing in renewable energy and sustainable practices mitigates climate change and promotes long-term environmental health.
• Public Health: Reducing pollution and protecting natural resources enhances public health and quality of life.
• Equity: Ensuring environmental justice addresses the disproportionate impact of environmental harm on marginalized communities.

How we will accomplish the task:

• Legislative Action: Enact comprehensive climate legislation and strengthen environmental regulations.
• Investment: Allocate funding towards renewable energy projects, green infrastructure, communal and co-operative farms, and sustainable agricultural practices.
• Community Involvement: Engage communities in environmental justice initiatives and ensure their participation in decision-making processes.

Funding:

Environmental Sustainability | Net +$210B in federal budget with these policies

• Green New Deal:
  • Estimated Cost: $500 billion annually (for renewable energy and green infrastructure).
  • Funding Source: Redirect $120 billion from defense spending and $200 billion from subsidies for fossil fuels. As well as $180 billion from wealth and progressive taxes. 
• Environmental Regulations:
  • Estimated Cost: $30 billion annually (for enforcement and compliance).
  • Funding Source: Increase regulatory fees and reallocate from other environmental programs.
• Land Protection:
  • Estimated Cost: $20 billion annually.
  • Funding Source: Redirect funds from urban development projects.