A Green Oklahoma

Worldwide, the population is growing much faster than energy production can currently sustain. As this crisis reaches into the Oklahoma, it is becoming increasingly important for our citizens and government to respond quickly and responsibly. I am confident that Oklahomans have the resources and drive to tackle these problems head on.

The first step that I believe Oklahoma will take is the exploration of alternative sources of energy. Oklahoma has been a leader in energy production since statehood, and now, we again have the potential to be a pioneer in what hopefully becomes a post-petroleum energy revolution. In a state “where the wind comes sweepin’ down the plain,” the idea of wind turbines is ripe with the potential to not only create sustainable electricity, but also to create a goldmine of green-collar jobs for our state. Similarly, the prospects of ethanol becoming a viable way to reduce our petroleum dependency are looking better and better. Switchgrass and hemp, two crops well suited for Oklahoma’s climate, have been shown to be efficient sources for biofuels. I strongly believe our farmers, engineers, and officeholders will take advantage of these great opportunities for our economy, environment, and energy needs. Our state has already taken advantage of natural gas reserves to put us in the direction of energy independence.

There are also a variety of options that I expect Oklahomans to pressure our government to explore. Most promising among these, our state government could begin to promote solar power. Western Oklahoma, especially the panhandle, is an ideal area to harness the sun’s natural energy. The government and electrical companies could provide incentives for the use of solar panels on homes and businesses. With these opportunities, a great many independently natured Oklahomans will take the initiative to live “off the grid” and provide an example for citizens all across America. While the question of solar power will come up, I do not see Oklahomans embracing a concept regarded as prohibitively expensive and environmentally unsound. However, I do believe that there will be a demand for a progressive public transportation system. There are a great number of Oklahomans concerned about state roads and the cost of petroleum, and these concerns could easily be addressed by significant improvements in local transit. If properly promoted, the fare could eventually make the industry profitable. Additional benefits would include a reduction of pollution, reduced traffic and safer streets, mobility for the disabled, and job creation in the transportation sector.

With ubiquitous warnings about a second Great Depression, it makes sense that Oklahoma would provide the leadership to help America endure. If anything, these challenges provide us with unprecedented opportunities to improve our state in nearly every aspect. In this 21st century world, we can look to the future with hope and confidence.