Environmental degradation and poverty are big problems. We must enact plans that address both problems. Poor people want to do good for the environment, but often find that "being green costs too much." Many poor people would happily drive zero-emission vehicles, if we could afford them! Cash for Clunkers brought poor people closer to hybrid car ownership. Bring it back. Who needs gas guzzlers? Nobody!
Why is this important?
Cash for Clunkers was a great program. It solved several problems simultaneously. It helped American carmakers, and those whose jobs are tied to them. It helped car owners. It was great for the environment. It removed polluters and gas guzzlers from the road, reduced dependence on fossil fuel and reduced the release of greenhouse gas. Poor people want, need and deserve eco-friendly transportation, too.
