In a recent meeting of the New Hampshire House of Representatives Committee on State-Federal Relations and Veterans Affairs, a palpable sense of urgency filled the room as discussions turned to the pressing issue of climate change and the adoption of green energy. One speaker, visibly concerned for future generations, articulated a deep worry that the current trajectory of fossil fuel production would leave a detrimental legacy for his children and grandchildren. “If we don’t cut it down now, we’re passing risks down to our future,” he stated, emphasizing the need for immediate action.

The speaker highlighted a consensus among many economists, including 28 Nobel laureates, who believe that transitioning to green energy could enhance the economy, public health, and the environment. He pointed out that the only entities truly threatened by this shift are those in the fossil fuel industry, framing the ongoing debate as one between science-based knowledge and disinformation propagated by oil billionaires.

As the discussion progressed, Representative Belcher sought clarification on the funding sources for scientists, noting that many rely on government support for their research. The speaker acknowledged that while some funding comes from private organizations, a significant portion is indeed government-funded, particularly in academic settings.

Representative Bennett raised a question about the opposition to a specific bill under consideration, which aimed to address climate issues. The speaker expressed skepticism, suggesting that the bill merely perpetuated a “fog of disinformation” by presenting a false equivalence between scientific facts and non-scientific opinions. “This is not a debate,” he asserted, underscoring the importance of recognizing established facts in the face of misinformation.

As the meeting concluded, it was clear that the discussions around climate change and energy policy are not just technical matters; they resonate deeply with personal concerns for the future. The urgency expressed by committee members and speakers alike reflects a growing recognition that the choices made today will shape the world for generations to come.