Readers respond: Better permit system fights climate change - OregonLive

Readers respond: Better permit system fights climate change - oregonlive.com

The article explaining how wildfire smoke harms lungs was eye-opening reading, (“ How wildfire smoke harms lungs: a toxicologist explains,” May 28). Considering the serious health consequences of smoke and the limited individual options for avoidance or mitigation, we need to address the root causes, including wildfires.

Wildfires are made worse by climate change due to several interconnected factors. Rising temperatures and prolonged drought conditions create drier vegetation, increasing the fuel available for fires. This leads to more intense and frequent wildfires. Climate change also alters weather patterns, leading to stronger winds, which can ignite fires. We need to fight climate change, and quickly.

Permitting reform is essential because it streamlines the process of developing renewable energy projects that reduce our reliance on fossil fuels. The current permitting system is often complex and time-consuming, resulting in delays and increased costs. By implementing permitting reforms, the renewable energy industry can accelerate the deployment of clean energy technologies.

Creating an easier transition to renewable energy is also important for human health. Burning fossil fuels releases harmful pollutants such as particulate matter, sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides – all contributors to respiratory disease. By transitioning to renewables, we can significantly improve air quality and reduce health risks. We need to fight for a future where we don’t have to worry about the very air we breathe.

To protect our health, I call on Sens. Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden, already committed to the fight against climate change, to pass strong climate legislation which includes permitting reform.

Francine Chinitz, Portland

Chinitz is Portland chapter co-leader of the Citizens’ Climate Lobby

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