The following essay won second place in our Summer 2023 Essay Writing Contest for high school and college students. The essay was submitted by highschool student Victoria Seegott.

Image: Creative Commons under Unsplash

The Cornwall Alliance for the Stewardship of Creation champions the belief that humanity is entrusted with the duty to care for the Earth and prioritize the well-being of its inhabitants. In this spirit, the essay contest offers a unique platform for high school juniors, seniors, and college students to scrutinize the impact of local legislation on three crucial facets: the economy, creation (environment), and local communities. This essay will critically assess the ramifications of a specific piece of legislation within my local community while also scrutinizing the worldview, assumptions, and solutions advocated by its sponsors. By doing so, we can discern any errors in these categories and gain insights into how such missteps can significantly affect the legislative process.

The legislation under examination is the “Clean Energy Transition Act,” proposed in my state. This landmark bill aims to transition the local energy sector from fossil fuels to renewable sources within the next decade. It is essential to address this legislation because it promises significant environmental benefits, but it also raises concerns about economic disruptions and potential impacts on local communities.

The “Clean Energy Transition Act” is lauded for its potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, combat climate change, and promote renewable energy industries. Advocates argue that it will stimulate job growth in the green energy sector. However, the economic consequences are more nuanced. While it may indeed create jobs in renewable energy, it could also lead to job losses in the fossil fuel industry, causing economic instability in regions heavily dependent on such industries. The bill’s sponsors appear to focus primarily on the benefits of renewable energy without adequately addressing potential economic hardships in affected communities. This narrow perspective could undermine the bill’s long-term success by overlooking the need for just transition measures and robust economic support for affected workers and regions.

The environmental impact of the “Clean Energy Transition Act” is a central aspect of its design. Sponsors of the legislation view it as a crucial step toward reducing carbon emissions, curbing air pollution, and protecting natural ecosystems. However, there are considerations to be made. While transitioning to clean energy sources is undoubtedly commendable, potential environmental trade-offs must not be ignored. For instance, the increased demand for rare earth minerals, critical components in renewable energy technologies, may lead to mining practices that harm fragile ecosystems and communities. Furthermore, the sponsors’ emphasis on carbon reduction must be balanced with a broader understanding of environmental stewardship, which includes preserving biodiversity, water quality, and land use sustainability.

The “Clean Energy Transition Act” has substantial implications for local communities. Proponents argue that it will improve air quality, reduce health risks, and enhance overall wellbeing by transitioning away from fossil fuels. However, it is essential to consider how this transition might affect the livelihoods and quality of life of residents in communities connected to fossil fuel industries. The bill’s sponsors, while well-intentioned, may overlook the potential social dislocation, job displacement, and economic challenges faced by these communities. Neglecting to address these issue comprehensively could lead to social inequality and discontent, undermining the very goals the legislation seeks to achieve. Therefore, a more holistic approach is needed, one that balances environmental concerns with community welfare.

The sponsors of the “Clean Energy Transition Act” are driven by a worldview that prioritizes environmental conservation and climate change mitigation. Their assumptions center on the belief that the transition to clean energy is an unequivocal good, with positive consequences for both the environment and society. The solutions proposed involve incentivizing renewable energy adoption, imposing emissions targets, and investing in green infrastructure. Despite the bill’s noble intentions, there are potential errors in its design. The sponsors seem to underestimate the complexity of transitioning away from fossil fuels and the associated economic and social challenges. Their narrow focus on carbon emissions may inadvertently overlook other important aspects of environmental stewardship. Moreover, the lack of robust measures to support affected communities and workers could lead to unintended consequences, such as increased inequality and resistance to environmental policies.

In conclusion, the “Clean Energy Transition Act” serves as a prime example of legislation that strives to balance the interests of the economy, creation, and local communities. While its environmental goals are commendable, its potential economic and social consequences underscore the importance of a holistic approach. By critically assessing such legislation and identifying errors in worldview, assumptions, and solutions, we can work toward more effective and equitable policy-making that truly upholds the principles of stewardship and the well-being of all its inhabitants. This essay contest, hosted by the Cornwall Alliance, provides a valuable opportunity to engage in these essential discussions and contribute to the betterment of our communities and our planet.