WILL POWER REPORT: TAX CREDITS FOR CLEAR CUTS?

Nothing but the Truth!

By Will Power

September 28, 2009--American Banks and Brokers are so desperate for new financial instruments that they invent entire new commodities to trade- such as “carbon credits” . The idea is to slow global warming by encouraging green business practices. But the market has been a bust, like in New Zealand, where carbon credits that once went for $7.00 a share are now worth 25 cents.

No matter! In fact, “Green” Governor Arnold “Terminator” Swartzenegger, who received $100,000 from Sierra Pacific Logging, muscled through a decision that allows loggers who clear-cut California forests to claim a “carbon credit” for decimating the environment. According to Arnold, clear-cutting is "Green"!

Two hours before the board voted to extend carbon credits, a news release was being delivered to publicize the decision. Isn't democracy great!

Sierra Pacific, who has spent $1.3 million in lobbying California’s legislators says the decision will decrease carbon dioxide by cutting down trees. A bit counterintuitive, to say the least.

Clear-cutting is the most economical logging method which provides the greatest return on investment. But rivers, topsoil, fish and animals all suffer years of degradation.

After clear-cutting, often soil is so damaged that trees can no longer find enough soil to reestablish their root systems. Paying out carbon credits to people who destroy forests is a perversion of science and will damage watersheds and fish that may never recover.

The Terminator once again shows his false dedication to the environment is a smokescreen for his pro-industry policies. This carbon credit program is a public relations scheme designed to facilitate the destruction of California forests while providing income to the loggers who destroy their own future.

Forgive them Lord. They know not what they do!

The opinions expressed reflect the views of the columnist and do not necessarily reflect the views of East County Magazine. If you have an opinion to express, send your editorial to editor@eastcountymagazine.org.