Climate Series #2: Why Cap and Trade?

Climate change caused by the emission of greenhouse gases presents a serious threat to the environment, the health and well-being of communities, and the economy. Congress has acted to address climate change through a national cap-and-trade policy proposal recently introduced in the House Energy and Commerce Committee.

The creation of a national cap-and-trade program has the potential to curb climate change while simultaneously creating new opportunities and supporting economic security in communities across the nation. The purpose of a cap-and-trade program is to establish concrete greenhouse gas emission reductions and to generate market-based incentives for consumers and companies to conserve energy. For a comprehensive report on how a cap-and-trade program would work, check out the Sightline Institute’s cap-and-trade policy primer.