By Ryan Westwood
My home state of Utah is beautiful, vibrant, naturally diverse, industrious, and accessible. There’s so much to love, whether it’s the stunning Wasatch Range, the red rock wonders of southern Utah, or the thriving economy. However, for all its beauty and industry, Utah has an air quality problem, routinely grapples with rapid housing growth, and with a dependence on mining fossil fuels, is constantly trying to balance the need for renewable energy.
And while this conversation generally might fall under the topic of climate change, that can be a touchy topic that quickly turns political and polarizing. Pew Research found that only 37 percent of Americans say climate change should be a top priority for the government. Yet, the same survey found that two-thirds of U.S. adults say the country should prioritize developing renewable energy sources such as wind and solar, as opposed to expanding the production of oil, coal, and natural gas — an argument that champions energy independence.
For notable progress to be made in conversations on climate initiatives, it seems that “climate change” is out, and “energy independence” is in. Of course, energy independence can encompass more specific topics like air quality, national security, and economic growth — things that, regardless of political stance, most people can agree on. For example, most would concede that cleaner air is better for health, that reducing reliance on foreign energy sources strengthens national security, and that innovation in energy technology can drive job creation. It’s all about how we frame the issues.
Here are four examples that illustrate how discussions around energy independence can move the needle on renewable energy and the broader topic of climate health, while discussions specifically around climate change can lead to stalemates and little progress.
Overall Messaging
Climate Change: Focuses on long-term environmental responsibility.
Energy Independence: Focuses on immediate benefits like lower energy costs and job growth.
Conversations centered on climate change project the ideals of long-term environmental responsibility, highlighting the need for sustainability, reduced carbon footprints, and future generations’ well-being. Surely, these are important goals. However, when action is the name of the renewable energy game, framing the conversation around this nebulous umbrella of environmental responsibility feels distant to people focused on immediate economic realities.
In contrast, framing the discussion around energy independence shifts the focus to tangible, near-term benefits like lower energy costs, job creation, and national security. This approach appeals to broader audiences by emphasizing outcomes that resonate regardless of political stance.
Economic and Local Business Impact
Climate Change: ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) goals, compliance.
Energy Independence: Innovation, job creation, cost savings.
Climate change draws a hard line on ESG goals, regulatory compliance, and corporate responsibility. While these factors are important, this heavy-handed conversation can focus on obligations and dark consequences, which, although based in reality, some may find offputting.
Conversely, conversations around energy independence highlight innovation, job creation, and cost savings — key drivers of business growth. Investing in domestic energy solutions — whether through advanced manufacturing, alternative fuels, or efficiency improvements. Companies engaging in these conversations are positioned to be leaders in a competitive market. Rather than just meeting mandates, businesses can leverage energy independence as a strategic advantage that fuels both profitability and resilience.
Interpreting Policy
Climate Change: Regulations, carbon taxes, renewable energy incentives.
Energy Independence: Investing in domestic energy sources (nuclear, natural gas, renewables)
This conversation hits home in Utah where lawmakers must balance the prospects and costs of nuclear, solar, and geo-thermal renewable energy with the demand for mining fossil fuels and vital minerals that ensure domestic energy independence and trigger economic growth.
Government regulations, carbon taxes, and renewable energy incentives aimed at reducing emissions associated with energy are intended to promote environmental responsibility. But the path to cleaner energy isn’t simple. These desired mandates can impact infrastructures, consumer choices, tax rates, affordable energy, and economic growth.
Two-thirds of adults say large organizations and corporations are doing too little to reduce the effects of climate change. But if mandates increase costs for consumers, well, that may change the conversation.
Public Perception
Climate change: Often debated, linked to activism and government intervention.
Energy Independence: Broad appeal across political lines, seen as pragmatic.
Over half (61%) of Americans believe global climate change is largely affecting their communities. The question is, what do we want businesses and governments to do about it?
Discussions around climate change are often emotionally charged and frequently tied to activism, government intervention, and differing ideological viewpoints. While some see climate policies as necessary for global sustainability, others view them as overreach or economically burdensome.
Conversations around energy independence tend to focus on supporting innovation, strengthening domestic industries, and providing tangible advantages without the political friction often associated with climate change discourse.
At the end of the day, real change comes from personal choices and cooperative action. I’m honored to serve on the board of directors for Utah Clean Energy, an organization leading the charge in creating a cleaner, more sustainable future. Focusing on clean air, reliable energy, and homegrown innovation makes the discussion relevant to everyone, regardless of ideology, and the approach to more constructive conversations couldn’t be more timely. The board of directors for Utah Clean Energy is working with top Utah leaders on both sides of the isle to sign a clean energy and clean air compact. These issues aren’t red or blue — they’re green. The desire for better air quality, public health, and environmental stewardship is a concern we all share at all community and economic levels. Our conversations should reflect that openness to exploring ideas and initiatives that bring us together for meaningful change.
