In today’s politically polarized climate, it can feel as though reaching consensus on critical issues is increasingly difficult. Climate change, however, is a challenge that transcends political affiliations. Every Pennsylvanian, especially children, is at risk. The Commonwealth’s unique position as both a hub of conventional energy production and a growing leader in renewable energy development creates a diverse set of challenges and opportunities for policymakers. That’s where the Pennsylvania Bipartisan Climate Initiative steps in, to show that bipartisanship is not only possible, but essential, in implementing long-lasting, impactful climate policies. We must take politics out of the equation if we are to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and find common ground on adaptation to a changing world.
From inception in 1971, bipartisanship has been a fundamental element of our Environmental Rights Amendment (the “ERA”). The ERA, embedded in Article I of the Pennsylvania constitution, our Bill of Rights, gives all of us, including future generations, the right to a livable environment and makes every government official – elected and appointed – a trustee for the environment. The ERA passed unanimously through both houses on the Legislature and was enacted by referendum across the Commonwealth by a vote of four to one.
While it had been neutralized by the lower courts over the following years, the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania brought the ERA back to life in a bipartisan decision in 2013 in a case called Robinson Township. There, a majority of the Court, comprised of a Republican Chief Justice and joined by three Democratic justices, struck down a bill that would have permitted fracking throughout Pennsylvania without regard to local zoning.
Bipartisan collaboration ensures that climate policies reflect the needs and concerns of a broad spectrum of Pennsylvanians. In a state where urban and rural communities, as well as industrial and environmental interests, often have divergent priorities, bringing together lawmakers from across the aisle creates more balanced, inclusive solutions. Moreover, laws enacted through bipartisan consensus tend to have greater longevity: they are less likely to be undone by changes in political leadership.
Pennsylvania’s economy, deeply rooted in coal and natural gas, has long been a source of tension in discussions about climate action. While Democrats often push for aggressive environmental regulation, Republicans are typically more concerned with protecting jobs in the energy sector. The Climate Initiative bridges this gap, creating opportunities for dialogue between these two perspectives and fostering solutions that address both economic and environmental needs.
Examples of Bipartisanship in Pennsylvanians' Public Opinions
One prominent example of support for bipartisan climate action amongst citizens of Pennsylvania is the state’s involvement in a cap-and-trade program (Marlon et al. 2022). While the decision to join the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (“RGGI”), a market-based program to reduce greenhouse gas emissions—sparked heated debate in the Legislature, according to Yale Program on Climate Change Communication, 75% of Pennsylvanians support regulating CO2 as a pollutant and 69% agree that fossil fuel companies should pay a carbon tax. So then why the disconnect between the desires of the electorate and the actions of politicians?
This divide stems largely from the tension between industry interests and public opinion. Pennsylvania’s strong ties to coal and natural gas create concern among legislators and traditional energy employees that aggressive climate policies would reduce profits and cause job loss in traditional energy sectors. However, as public support for climate action grows, it is becoming increasingly clear that voters want policies that balance economic and environmental priorities.
Common ground among the electorate shows that Pennsylvanians are ready for leaders to take meaningful steps toward climate resilience. The widespread support for regulating carbon emissions highlights the growing recognition that climate change is not just an environmental issue, but a public health and economic one as well. Pennsylvanians from across the political spectrum understand that protecting natural resources, protecting our collective health and building a sustainable economy go hand in hand.
The Role of the Pennsylvania Bipartisan Climate Initiative
In view of the overwhelming public support for climate action, the Pennsylvania Bipartisan Climate Initiative plays a valuable role in bridging the gap between policy and public opinion. The Climate Initiative focuses on amplifying the voices of Pennsylvanians who recognize the importance of addressing climate change, helping to bring their concerns to the forefront of political discussions. By providing a platform for diverse stakeholders— environmental advocates, business leaders, and community organizations—the Initiative fosters collaboration and advocates for policies that reflect the will of the electorate.
The Climate Initiative also works to educate lawmakers on the economic benefits of transitioning to renewable energy and the long-term risks of inaction. By promoting bipartisan dialogue, it encourages legislators to develop solutions that address both job security in traditional energy sectors and the growing demand for renewable energy. In doing so, the Climate Initiative helps to align political action with the public’s desire for meaningful climate solutions. In this sense, the Initiative actively works with municipal leaders and officials to implement the ERA across municipal plans, codes and regulations. With a bottom-up approach, state legislators will be more likely to implement the ERA in statewide policy as well.
Through its efforts to unite public officials, stakeholders, and citizens, the Initiative aims to close the gap between public opinion and municipal action. By fostering a climate of cooperation, it is paving the way for policies that are not only reflective of Pennsylvanians’ values but also sustainable and equitable for the state’s future.
A Model for the Future
As Pennsylvania faces more serious challenges of climate change, the power of bipartisanship will become even more critical. From rising temperatures and extreme weather events to shifting economic landscapes, the need for durable and equitable solutions has never been more urgent. The Pennsylvania Bipartisan Climate Initiative offers a model for how municipalities across the state can navigate these challenges through collaboration, compromise, and a shared commitment to the well-being of their residents.
By continuing to engage leaders from across the political spectrum, the Initiative is proving that bipartisanship isn’t just a political strategy—it’s a necessity for building a sustainable and prosperous future for all Pennsylvanians.
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