Subcommittee Chairman Baird Makes Science the Focus of Climate Change Debate

(Washington, DC) – Today, the House Committee on Science and Technology’s Energy and Environment Subcommitteeheld a hearing entitled: “A Rational Discussion of Climate Change: the Science, the Evidence, the Response.” Today’s hearing focused on the basic science, the evidence, and the response to climate change. 

 

“I believe that many members of the public, and perhaps some in Congress, have never had the opportunity to consider the basic science and the long history of investigation and data that underlie understanding the greenhouse effect and, more recently, ocean acidification,” said Subcommittee Chairman Brian Baird (D-WA).  “I place a paramount importance on scientific integrity, and this hearing was a chance to go back to the basics for an open discussion.”

 

The Energy and Environment Subcommittee heard from three panels of witnesses.  The first panel of witnesses discussed the fundamental physics and chemistry underlying the role of carbon dioxide and other atmospheric gasses in regulating or altering our planet's temperature and the acidity of the oceans. 

 

The second panel discussed climate models and whether the predicted impacts of carbon on temperature and ocean acidity are, in fact, happening. 

 

The third panel of witnesses discussed impacts that are being observed and that can be anticipated from climate change and ocean acidification.  Witnesses highlighted how the U.S. is responding today and actions needed to take to prepare for the future.  

 

“We have been at the forefront of climate research and should remain a leader there as well.  We must continue this endeavor if we intend to leave our children and grandchildren a strong economy, and a truly independent and secure nation,” said Baird.

 

For more information, including on the Committee’s work on climate change, please see our website.