Reframing the U.S. Emissions Debate

Robert Dujarric argues that the key to reducing U.S. greenhouse‐gas emissions lies not in new technology mandates but in changing how Americans discuss energy and security. Drawing parallels to wartime mobilization, he suggests framing fuel efficiency and clean‐energy investments as matters of national resilience—protecting supply lines and reducing dependence on foreign oil—rather than purely environmental concessions.

By appealing to patriotism and economic self‐interest, policymakers can build broader bipartisan support for measures like vehicle‐fuel standards, home‐insulation programs, and public transit funding. Dujarric warns that without this strategic reframing, climate policies risk being dismissed as costly “green” burdens rather than recognized as essential components of national strength.