Entergy 2006 Annual Report Download - page 27

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Are we as a society fundamentally changing our climate
through the emission of greenhouse gases? Is global
climate change slowly destroying our planet? Will our
great-grandchildren be able to enjoy the rich, diverse
environment that we take for granted today or will they
face a vastly different world? If the answer to any of these
alarming questions is yes, then it raises an even more
profound question – can anything be done?
At Entergy, we view the issue of climate change from a
somewhat unique perspective. Our product – power – is
considered vital to the public good. It’s a necessity in some
countries, a requirement for development in others. Yet power
generation today accounts for about 40 percent of global CO2
emissions. We sit at the very center of the debate
that posits economic development against
environmental preservation. Given our position,
we have spent a great deal of time and resources
analyzing the issue of climate change. We have
worked with environmental, societal and
economic experts from academia, industry and
government. We have reviewed and analyzed the data. Based
on the results of our analyses, we hold a clear point of view and
well-defined beliefs on climate change.
■We believe that the science is overwhelming. Man-made
greenhouse gas emissions are the predominate cause of
global climate change. We are already seeing the
consequences of this climate change on our
environment. The data is clear. It’s happening now.
■We believe the federal government should implement a
national mandatory program that will make decisive cuts
in greenhouse gas emissions in the coming decades. The
current approach of state regulations is well-intended, but
not the ultimate answer. Mandatory greenhouse gas
regulations at the federal level will trigger technology
innovation throughout our economy and change the way
we manage our resources.
■We believe the U.S. government must step up to the
challenge and lead the world forward on the issue of
climate change. The United States generates more
greenhouse gas emissions on a total and per capita basis
than any other major country. As the leader of the free
world, we have a moral responsibility to set the example
by establishing policies founded in intellectual honesty
and reasoning. Denying the need to address the problem
because some uncertainties remain, not only sets an
impossible standard for climate change action, but also
diminishes the nation’s ability to lead on other global
issues that also involve lingering uncertainties. The
solution will require new policies, technologies, behaviors
and a long-term commitment. It will no doubt
impact the U.S. economy. It will be difficult,
but we firmly believe doing nothing ultimately
will cost multiples of any short-term impacts.
In this centerpiece to our annual report, we
present the opinions of six recognized and
respected experts on climate change. Please take the time to
read them and form your own opinion. We’re confident that
when you do, you will agree that now is the time to think and
act differently about climate change. Take steps to reduce your
personal energy consumption. Commit to lower emissions in
your business. Demand action from your elected officials in
both the House and Senate in Washington, DC, on this issue.
We can muster the will and courage to work together and
find a solution to global climate change or we can turn our
back on the facts, and do nothing. The choice is ours to
make; the time to make it is now.
J. Wayne Leonard
Chairman and CEO
Entergy Corporation
The Defining Issue of Our Time
CLIMATE CHANGE: