Pass along the cost

The unwillingness of the rich and their representatives to deal with climate change comes from one simple principle: pass along the cost.

Money is made in two ways: (a) by pocketing the largest part of the profit, and (b) by passing the costs of the endeavor to the government and investors at the top, and consumers at the bottom.

It’s the same with climate change. After making their money off the environment, they are now poised to pass off the costs. What does it matter to the head of ExxonMobil if sea levels rise and flood our cities? He can fly his family inland. What does it matter if the price of beef is $3 a pound or $30? He can afford it, even if as a delicacy.

The science of climate change is undeniable. 90% or more of scientists in the field, in figures given by NASA and Science magazine, among others, acknowledge that humanity is behind climate change. The elite don’t, because it is does not feel like a danger to them. It is a cost, at most, and in their refusal to act they pass it to the rest of us.

Tim Stickney

Spokane