Letter: Trump is hurting climate, and economy

In a time when we are experiencing more and more climate disasters, Trump’s denial of climate change is hurting us in more ways than one.

Climate research has been eliminated. Efforts to control climate change are ceasing. Instead oil, gas and coal production are being increased and will add to greenhouse gases. Cuts to the National Weather Service and FEMA  are decreasing our ability to prepare for and recover from climate disasters.

The president has canceled a FEMA program aimed at making communities more resilient and more prepared for disasters. He has denied federal assistance for tornadoes in Arkansas and flooding in West Virginia. This seems to be adding harm upon harm. Nothing will be done to control climate change and help may be curtailed when climate disasters hit.

The president also wants to put limits on regulation of pollution from tailpipes. Transportation is the largest source of greenhouse gases generated by the US. Besides greenhouse gases other emissions released from tailpipes will create pollution and smog,  which will increase asthma and heart disease.

Trump may not believe in climate change but the rest of the world does. His cuts to incentives to build electric vehicles and solar panels will hurt our economy as the rest of the world advances in this industry. China is already outpacing us in the EV market. Even Saudi Arabia is investing in green energy. Why are we being troglodytes?

Is this making America better for you and your kids? If not, tell your representatives.

— Laurel Heath, Chico