Thomas L. Friedman has a piece in today's New York Times about the necessity of imposing a gas tax if we really and truly want to stimulate a green economy.
While the thought of more taxes has my wallet running for cover, I am in complete agreement with Friedman. Personally, I loved seeing prices come down at the pump, knowing that it would now take less than $50 to fill the tank on my zippy little Toyota. But there was also a part of me that got very, very nervous when I saw gas prices decreasing.
I'd love to believe that the green movement over the last couple of years is something more than a fad, but I'm cynical. Unfortunately Friedman, who has been through this cycle more times than myself, seems to confirm this. While I believe that a small minority of Americans will maintain their commitment to a more sustainable future, I believe that most need to be economically stimulated. We'll see if the new administration agrees.
Read the full piece here.