From an Extraction to a Harvest Economy
The economic path we collectively choose over the next decade will largely determine if we pass on a livable planet to future generations, or throw up our hands in frustration and hope they can figure out how to survive. There is ample evidence that our ability to reduce our carbon emissions, can be accomplished by shifting our nation from an extraction economy to a harvest economy.
What do I mean by that?
The start of the American Industrial Revolution coincided with the discovery of oil in 1904. These industries which flourished into the mid 19th century such as coal, oil and natural gas, had for the most part become far less profitable by the second decade of the 21st century. These industries depend on finding and extracting resources from ever more remote locations on the planet. Strategies such a hydraulic fracturing were obvious examples that we were literally scraping the bottom of the barrel regarding these energy sources. Add to that the devastating effects of a changing climate and leaders are seeing that not only was a energy transition possible, but that it was required if future generations were to have a planet that supported any quality of life.
At the same time the growth of renewable energy sources that harvest sunlight, wind, or the heat buried deep below the surface has showed CEOs and policy makers that this can be a viable energy option. In addition, the use of agricultural crops with sufficient carbon capture and energy density offered another example of harvested sources of energy.
The shift from extractive energy sources to ones gathered via harvesting technologies is a policy shift that makes both economic and environmental sense. It is time for us to head firmly in that direction.