NPR Climate Coverage

We can never be sure where policy changes come from. In the 1970's, the general public, authors, the media, and politicians, notably Senator Gaylord Nelson, became interested in protecting the environment. From these organic, raw feelings came notable environmental policies like the Clean Water Act, the Clean Air Act, the National Environmental Policy Act, and the Endangered Species Act. These laws, despite all of their flaws, are the basis of the environmental protection in this country.

This month, NPR begins their series on climate change. They are reporting on all aspects of this issue and I believe it will continue throughout the year. Now, I don't want to give NPR more credit than they are due. One can never say whether they are responding to market research and simply providing their relatively liberal, educated audience with what they want. On the other hand, maybe they are truly showing leadership in the climate change arena.

Personally, I don't care.

The important thing is that, finally, we are starting to talk about climate change on almost a daily basis. There is no doubt in my mind that this will be a major policy issue in the upcoming presidential election. The one who shows true leadership in this area will benefit and gain votes as a result.

For your part, NPR, way to go. This is the reason I love you.