With the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen
concluding a few weeks ago, all of us in Wisconsin should take a
hard look at how climate change will affect Wisconsin and at the
consequences of no action. The science now convinces us that
calls for immediate action are warranted to avoid the worst
consequences of climate change on Wisconsin's economy and
environment, including the Great Lakes. While slowing the
damaging effects of climate change poses challenges, we also
believe such action presents Wisconsin with real opportunities
to reinvigorate our economy and improve the quality of life for
all Wisconsinites. Climate policy at the federal level offers a
unique opportunity to protect valuable natural resources and
stimulate the economy. A recent report from the Apollo Alliance
states that a $13 billion investment in clean energy in
Wisconsin would yield approximately 93,000 new jobs, with about
27,297 of those in manufacturing and 11,199 in construction.
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