The environment

By Daniel Abraham Brezenoff

We must create a sustainable economy. That means one that provides the goods and services we need to live without endangering the ability of future generations to do the same, and without sacrificing quality of life and health + clean air, open space, a connection to nature and to each other, and meaningful work that lasts.

We must replace fossil fuels with renewable resource such as solar and wind power and biofuels.

There can be no doubt human activity affects the biosphere and the atmosphere. Exactly how is unclear. The government must help and, as necessary, force industry to become greener.

The New Deal for Sustainability is a Federal and State public works program on the scale President Roosevelt enacted in the 1930's, which I will propose to the President and legislature. Employing Americans at a living wage to bring our infrastructure and grid into the 21st century, it would:

Create jobs for both skilled and unskilled labor Provide tax incentives for businesses and municipalities to convert to solar power Support the work of green engineers, architects, and urban planners Improve the environmental impact of the port with container tax, carbon fee Reduce utility bills through solar power conversion assistance Reduce fuel prices by converting grid to solar Increase fuel efficiency standards and pollution caps nationally and, through fair trade agreements, internationally Improve public transit with carbon-free vehicles and expanded services Improve air and water quality by reducing pollution Reduce automobile traffic and improve opportunities for alternative transit Create stronger communities and improve quality of life Attract tourism California can and must lead the way on sustainability. This is the most progressive state in the nation with a vast labor force, great wealth, plenty of sunshine and open space, and engineering and environmental visionaries. We can turn California into the global model for 21st century sustainable urban design. With our traffic headaches, pollution, and unemployment, we need a new direction. Sustainable living is the answer.

Environmental problems disproportionately affect minorities and the poor. I will support legislation that ensures all Americans have access to safe drinking water, open space and clean air where they live.