Three Ways to Maintain Momentum on Climate Policy

It’s been an unprecedented year for climate policy in the U.S. Following the billions in climate investments unlocked via the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act in 2021, President Biden signed the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) into law on August 16, 2022. This landmark climate measure marks the greatest U.S. investment into a clean energy future: $369 billion in climate solutions and environmental justice. The legislation will put the U.S. on a path to decrease greenhouse gas emissions by about 40% below 2005 levels by 2030. In the words of former President Barack Obama using an evocative acronym, “this is a BFD.”

This landmark achievement is certain to boost the U.S.’s credibility in climate diplomacy as other countries look to the U.S. to establish itself as a global climate leader at COP27 in Egypt next month. In the most recent IPCC Sixth Assessment Report, it makes clear that near-term actions that limit average global temperature rise under 1.5 Degree Celsius would substantially reduce losses and damages related to climate change in human systems and ecosystems. If implemented in the right way, the IRA could be a shining example of a significant near-term policy action that will help ratchet emissions down and provide a blueprint for reductions for the world to see.

The IRA is also expected to spur innovation and accelerate the move to clean energy. Experts expect that solar, wind and other non-polluting sources could supply 80 percent of the country’s electricity by the end of this decade. But we can’t stop there. It is crucial to keep up the momentum on climate policy and continue to apply pressure on our elected leaders to equitably confront climate change. Here are three ways YOU can play a role in this effort:

1. Thank your legislators who voted for the IRA. Your elected representatives in Congress need to hear that voting for this bill meant a lot to you, especially your representatives in swing states and districts that took tough votes. Call, email, or better yet write a handwritten letter expressing your gratitude. Make sure to personalize your thank you message with an anecdote about why climate action matters to you and your community! Effective storytelling is the key to connecting authentically on a human level with your lawmakers, and they’re more likely to listen if you keep it personal.
2. Hold state and local policymakers accountable to ensure effective IRA implementation. Much of the climate funding in the IRA will be distributed to states and local municipalities, and climate advocates can ensure that funds are distributed equitably and efficiently. The impact and reach of the IRA depends on how the money is spent on programming at the state and local level, and it’s up to us to hold our leaders accountable. To do so, make your voice heard at your local City or Town Council meetings. Contact your state assembly representatives and Mayor’s Offices. Ask questions at Town Halls. To find your state and local reps’ contact information and details about upcoming public meetings, navigate here.
3. Vote! The midterm elections are rapidly approaching and we need representatives who will continue implementing climate-smart policies. To check your voter status, come up with a voting plan, and find out other ways to volunteer or get involved in this cycle, check out EDF Action’s elections hub here.