A Challenge For Equal Time

                                    

The energy industry is often characterized as being at odds with environmentalists. But in fact we’re all environmentalists. (We’ve yet to come across someone who is against the environment.)

We’re also in favor of affordable and reliable electricity, of course. It would be nice to discuss the issues, calmly and rationally, with environmentalists.

A few weeks ago we challenged the major environmental groups to an “equal-time discussion” on common themes that intersect the energy & environmental world.

No name calling or mud-slinging, just a straightforward debate relying on accepted facts. We proposed starting with this question: “How do we meet America’s growing energy needs while addressing the climate change issue?”

The rules would be that each side could make its case in 1,000 words and must commit to keeping both essays on its site for at least 21 days and promote the discussion on its home page for at least 10 days.

Are environmental groups up for a fair and honest debate where both sides are heard?

I guess not.

We sent our challenge to five groups: the Sierra Club, Environmental Defense Fund, League of Conservation Voters, Center for Biological Diversity and Friends of the Earth.

None were interested.

What does that say about the efforts of those groups to have a genuine debate on the issues?