Olivia Vong is Citizens’ Climate Lobby’s Third Coast Regional Fellow and a Master’s student at the University of Houston pursuing her degree in public policy with a concentration in economics.
Growing up near the coast of Texas, hurricanes were a normal part of life, but those hurricanes have become more intense and more devastating. Hurricane Harvey in August 2017 caused catastrophic flooding and more than 100 deaths. More recently, in February 2021, multiple snowstorms in the gulf coast region caused a power crisis that left more than 4.5 million homes and businesses without power, some for several days.
I gained a very preliminary understanding of climate change throughout high school but I did not truly understand its impact until I went to college. As I learned more about climate change throughout undergraduate and graduate school, I felt the need to do something. There is this sense of urgency since climate change is such a multifaceted issue that disproportionately affects communities of color and low-income individuals. Through addressing climate change, not only are we saving the planet but we are also beginning to address inequalities.
I joined my local Houston chapter of Citizens’ Climate Lobby because I liked CCL’s core values and wanted to get more involved with the policy side of climate change. Overall, my work as a regional fellow has helped me feel more energized about the cause. Getting to see students be so energized about climate change and want to take action on their campus is so inspiring. I learn so much from our campus leaders!
One common misconception about addressing climate change is that it is not economically viable. Economic models show that this is a false dichotomy and addressing climate change and improving the economy go hand in hand. The Energy Innovation and Carbon Dividend Act, CCL’s preferred climate legislation, would put America on the path towards net zero emissions while growing the economy. Cities like Houston would benefit hugely from a carbon price which would accelerate the implementation of the city's climate action plan. This will in turn lessen the inequalities exacerbated by climate change.