The American jobs plan: a new horizon for sustainable investment
This past week, President Joe Biden announced a shocking plan for the country's future. The American Jobs Plan is a major investment in upgrading infrastructure and ensuring that the United States' most basic needs are met. Biden pledged $2 trillion dollars to the cause, surpassing the blockbuster COVID-19 relief bill from earlier this year. The bulk of this funding comes from a rise in corporate tax to 28%.
Biden's plan is a robust program that includes many measures targeted at mitigating greenhouse gas emissions. In terms of sustainability, there are historic investments in public transportation. The Biden administration is investing $20 billion dollars in the development of public transit.
The United States, historically known as a car-reliant country, could benefit from a shift towards environmentally safer forms of travel.
Furthermore, the program includes an initiative to create 500,000 charging stations nationwide by 2030 by incentivizing public and private companies. For comparison, there are about 168,000 gas stations in the country, and while gas and charging stations differ, it is no debate that these additions will make driving electric far more accessible.
When thinking of impacts, the American Jobs Plan will help facilitate the United States’ return as a leader in climate mitigation. The past four years have been detrimental to the international community's perception of the United States' dedication to climate initiatives.
During the campaign season, Biden announced that he planned on returning to the Paris Climate Accords, and he followed through on the first day of his presidency. But, many speculate that much more has to be done to truly shift other's perspectives. This sustainable approach to renovating America's infrastructure shows that there is an aggressive commitment to positive change.
Secondly, the American Jobs Plan reimagines how sustainability can be a dynamic solution to the nation's challenges, shifting both legislators' and people’s outlook. For example, the Biden administration plans to combat economic inequalities by investing in green energies and industries within disenfranchised communities. This includes establishing "15 decarbonized hydrogen demonstration projects in distressed communities," per the White House Website.
Historically, middle and lower-class communities have been more vulnerable to natural disasters and pollution. Prioritizing these demographics in sustainable infrastructure helps to ensure that everyone has access to a healthy life.
There are many impacts that the American Jobs Plan will have on our future. While I focus on sustainability issues, these plans stretch from battling racial inequalities to reinforcing the roadway system. However, in terms of the environment, Biden's plan could be historic for how legislation is perceived. The American Jobs Plan has been compared to a "modern New Deal," and the actions it proposes are stunning. Hopefully, these measures will prove to be effective, especially when combatting climate change.
~ Adrian Visscher `24
