Environment and Solar Energy

By Karalee Hargrove

Development of one does not mean destruction of the other.

We must resist improper siting of energy projects in our quest to become energy self-sufficient. Much more can be done to encourage energy production close to the source of consumption. Palm Springs High School incorporated solar panels into shaded parking structures. Expansion of this approach could mean that shoppers would no long seek the inevitably scrawny tree at the far end of parking lots for a spot of shade. It is worth looking at various types of approaches such as large parking lots being dedicated to produce solar energy. Private property owners might be willing to partner with industrial producers when we turn ideas into win-win ventures for all those impacted.

Water is also a most precious resource that needs protection. I will not support jeopardizing water quality for industrial contamination. Polluting industries create jobs, but should we sacrifice our water to toxins or waste? Polluters should pay the price of cleanups, not taxpayers.

California has been the leader in the effort to improve air quality. California's population of 38 million people represents a marketplace that forces producers of goods to respond to our expectations for a good quality of life. California is a marketplace that manufacturers do not ignore. As an example, automobile manufacturers, in response to California's strong legislation, have increased miles per gallon. Moving the bar higher is not necessarily a bad thing.