Mischaracterized

May 16, 2010
Pioneer Press
By Doug Loon

"Target taking on climate change" (May 4), by reporter Tom Webb, mischaracterized the U.S. Chamber of Commerce's position on energy and climate change.

In the article, a Target spokeswoman notes that the climate change debate isn't a matter of "us versus them." We agree. As the world's largest business federation, the U.S. Chamber has forcefully advocated for common-sense policies that would increase America's energy security and benefit the environment. Last year, our Institute for 21st Century Energy released a comprehensive, 88-point plan that includes many provisions to combat climate change, such as innovative financing mechanisms for clean energy technology, increased energy efficiency, and expanding our use of emissions-free nuclear energy.

We agree that America must transition to a lower carbon economy and lessen reliance on foreign oil. However, we believe that transition should be managed carefully in accordance with our increasing need for more energy supplies and regard for our struggling economy.

Like many leaders from both parties, the Chamber could not support the Waxman-Markey cap-and-trade bill last year due to its negative impacts on the economy. However, we have remained engaged in a constructive dialogue with members of Congress about ways to increase energy supply and reduce carbon dioxide emissions, and will continue to do so.

A comprehensive energy and climate bill that effectively manages the transition to a lower-carbon future without harming our economy is in everyone's best interest. We look forward to continuing to work toward that goal, and hope that the "us versus them" attitude that was exhibited in the Pioneer Press's coverage does not become even more pervasive.

Doug Loon

The writer is vice president of regional affairs at the United States Chamber of Commerce