Climate and energy

Resolved: The United States federal government should substantially increase alternative energy incentives in the United States.

In high schools across the nation, this year’s national debate topic is alternative energy. CEP has invited some of the best and brightest Kansas high school debate students to weigh in on the topic. Our Energy Debate ‘08 Guest Blog series will feature six debate teams across the state, from Dodge City to Overland Park.

Today’s contributor is Boya Abudu, a Junior at Field Kindley Memorial High School in Coffeyville. Here’s her answer to the question we posed: What does Kansas’ energy future hold?

Everyone is aware of one of biggest crises that our nation is facing; energy. It seems that no one can agree on that one renewable energy source that will help stop the use of fossil fuels. It may seem silly, but our best solution may be in the heartland of America; wind.

When looking to how today’s economy is run, many see electricity as one of the largest necessities. Without it, many of today’s easiest tasks would become life’s most difficult challenges. But with coal, the main source of electricity facing problems, that outcome may just be around the corner.

But thank goodness for technology! The United States has already moved far in innovation, and the technology for wind is available. With more of a push, it may be able to be used for the entire country. Wind’s electricity generation can provide for many applications, including electric cars, power plants, and simple household appliances. Not only could America slowly stop using fossil fuels, but it would become energy independent, reduce carbon dioxide and air pollution, and eventually it would lead to investment in other renewables. And this could all start with what has surrounded Earth for millenniums, the wind right here in Kansas.

CEP Debate ‘08 series coordinated by CEP Director of Outreach, Eileen Horn.