Biden Administration Unleashes Powerful Regulatory Tool Aimed at Climate
www.nytimes.com
Its new estimate of the economic impact of climate change could create the legal justification for aggressive new regulations.

The higher the number, the greater the government’s justification for compelling polluters to reduce the emissions that are dangerously heating the planet. During the Obama administration, White House economists calculated the social cost of carbon at $42 a ton. The Trump administration lowered it to less than $5 a ton. Under President Biden, the cost was returned to Obama levels, adjusted for inflation and set at $51.

The new estimate of the social cost of carbon, making its debut in a legally binding federal regulation, is almost four times that amount: $190 a ton.

  • FatCrab@lemmy.one
    2·
    11 months ago

    In case this is an actually sincere question, Hyundai kona ev can be purchased for 30k range with federal and state incentives and is fine for 90% of commuting needs and has good range for longer trips. With a child and 65 lbs dog, it’s been our primary/ only vehicle for a few years now and no real issues. Do I want a good electric van when one hits the market at a reasonable price? For sure. But if you actually want an ev for family use, there isn’t much truly stopping you.

    • Followupquestion
      1·
      11 months ago

      The Hyundai/Kia offerings look interesting but the nearest dealership is 40 miles away and that’s more than I can do to go test drive a car. How’s the interior, equivalent to a Honda at least?

      • FatCrab@lemmy.one
        2·
        11 months ago

        It’s pretty fine. Some areas are a bit cheaper build quality than I’d like but I’ve never really had any significant complaints. But I also have a relatively high tolerance–so long as it works and does its job, I’m good as far as cars go.

        • Followupquestion
          1·
          11 months ago

          I don’t think of myself as picky, but large panel gaps and cheap materials like on an armrest or the seats themselves just really grate on me. When I bought my last vehicle, I test drove like 15 vehicles, and while I liked the economy of the Prius V, the places they cheaper out (no air vents for rear passengers for instance) stuck out like a sore thumb. Hopefully my next vehicle can be an EV, I just can’t square the circle of trading in a reliable, paid off car for a new EV with a monthly payment.