Emma Glessner, "Why 2014 Is a Big Deal"

Emma Glessner, 4W

Friedman, Thomas L. "Why 2014 Is a Big Deal." Editorial. New York Times 13 Dec. 2014: 9. Print.

Why 2014 Is a Big Deal (Link)

1. In this editorial, Friedman claims that the year of 2014 could have marked the end of our climate change debate. However, new technology, such as solar panels and Apple apps, have made this impossible. In addition, Friedman discusses the negative effects of fracking which in turn have majorly hurt the environment. Later on, he suggests that the United States should be focusing on improving our economy and infrastructure rather than spending money on fracking, cars, and advanced technology. He explicitly says, the United States needs to raise the gasoline tax in order to rebuild the economy and infrastructure. 

2. To support his argument about the environment, Friedman writes about the process of fracking. It has recently become a cheap way to obtain natural gas from the earth. However, if we exceed our limit before 2050, the average temperature will rise by two degrees Celsius resulting in weather extremes, rapid ice melt, and high sea levels. Despite the environmental effects, the price of gasoline has decreased because of the surplus of gas. Car owners are very happy about this, and those who do not own a vehicle are purchasing S.U.V.’s and trucks. As a result, more cars simply produce more carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. 

To support the claim about raising the gasoline tax, Friedman and Verleger (an energy economist) say the “clear solution” is to set a price of $3.50 a gallon for gasoline (hypothetical example), and then tax any price below $3.50. Thus, the income from taxing would help to rebuild the roads and our economy. 

3. I think Friedman discusses a few valid points regarding our economy and climate, and I agree that technology affects our environment. I never connected low gas prices to more carbon dioxide emissions, but I understand how decreased gas prices can negatively effect the atmosphere. Also, the “clear solution” to have a set price per gallon is a very smart and creative idea. However, I believe people will be angry about a higher, set price, and I think individuals care more about how much they spend on gas rather than rebuilding our roads.