Former Congressman Bob Inglis (R-SC) traveled to Antarctica and Greenland during his second, three-year term in Congress (2005-10) and became convinced climate change was a problem and needed action. In July 2012, he founded and launched republicEn.org, which is centered on conservative principles and a free-enterprise solution to climate change. Inglis will talk about how a true, level playing field and free enterprise can deliver the innovation to solve some of our climate change issues.

Bob Inglish, Founder of RepublicEN

“A Case for Climate Conservatism”

Slowing the rate of observed warming requires political consensus, still largely lacking in the United States. Piling on evidence, data and scientific research is counterproductive with many conservatives and evangelicals, searching for relevance in their own spiritual lives – and a small-government, market-friendly approach. Re-framing this conversation as a uniquely homegrown, American clean energy revolution – one that accelerates competition, consumer choice, lower cost and healthier communities taking full advantage of smaller, safer, decentralized power grids less vulnerable to attack from hackers, terrorists and X-Class solar flares – may get traction with a conservative voter base focused on energy freedom and long-term energy security. A need for more energy, at less cost, with fewer unpleasant side effects, health concerns and grid vulnerabilities may resonate with a demographic perpetually suspicious of government and regulatory over-reach. Focusing on innovation, reinvention and clean energy alternatives will stimulate productive dialogue on the most cost-effective, market-friendly policies to dialing down fossil fuels and greenhouse gas emissions over time, while making America’s elusive energy independence a 21st century reality.

In this case the (clean energy) tail may ultimately wag the (climate change) dog.

Paul Douglas, President
Aeris Weather

This event is part of the 24th Annual Kuehnast Lecture. Sponsored by the Department of Soil, Water, & Climate and Sigma Xi.