A Different Shade of Green

Personally, I felt extremely refreshed after reading about Van Jones' ideas. Finally someone who does not want some new technology that only the rich can afford, or to forget all about the way of life that we have created. His plan is the first one I've read that I actually thought was feasible for implementation in the U.S. because it could satisfy the economists, while also working towards reforming our market into a more environmentally friendly system. I am sure there are those who would argue that his plan will only contribute to the continued destruction of the environment because it only encourages our current way of life. But, for now, (at least) this might be the best way to begin our transition to a more radical solution in the future.

My favorite thing about Jones' plan is that he incorporates low-income and impoverished young people into his solution. I think he is the first person to even address the disparity problems in our readings this semester. He uses his race to gain access to poor communities and to convince younger people that they have a better option than gangs and violence. His seeming ability to gain support from multiple facets is very interesting. He makes his race work in his favor but also has a good idea to boost the economy, which all rich people like to here. It a pretty intelligent way or bridging the gaps. My concern for his ideas is that the changes will not be drastic enough, but what plan would be? That is the whole problem. We have gotten ourselves into an environmental crisis over time, and no one should expect us to suddenly have a universal solution at the drop of a hat. There will have to be compromise and Jones' plan is a viable option.