This November, Washington state voters will decide whether to approve Initiative 1631, which would establish a fee on carbon emissions aimed at curbing pollution.
While there is room for debate on the details of this proposal, as there is with any policy, one thing is increasingly clear – we need to take urgent action to address climate change. Last week, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) issued a report that details how climate change is already harming people and jeopardizing the well-being of communities around the world. The report highlights not just the severity of climate change, but the urgency with which we must act. The best available science indicates we have a very limited amount of time to act in order to avoid the worst impacts of climate change.
Every step that has the potential to address these challenges and curb emissions deserves serious consideration. After a thorough review, Microsoft is today announcing our support for I-1631.
I-1631 represents an important first step on carbon policy. We believe it offers opportunity; an opportunity for businesses of all kinds to come together to find workable solutions that lower emissions while keeping our economy strong, for Washington state to take the lead on this important issue, and for citizens to take an active role in supporting the state’s clean energy economy and a better future. We are not interested in criticizing other businesses, as it will take all of us working together. Given what is at stake and what can be gained, we think it’s an opportunity that should be embraced at the ballot box on Nov. 6.