The increase in cost of traditional power sources, the environmental effects of importing solar panels from poorly regulated regions, and the collateral damage as the result of a trade war that began with the idea of bringing manufacturing jobs to the U.S. are all unexpected consequences of society’s demand for renewable energy. As demonstrated by these three perspectives, tariffs and subsequent trade wars will inevitably impact low-income areas, the environment, and other industries that support the American economy. However, these perspectives only open the door to larger conversations that must continue so that improvements can be made. The perspectives provided beg for more questions to be asked, such as: How can government agencies can work toward making renewable energy accessible to low-income communities and should it be a priority? Should a supranational entity be established to ensure the proper handling and disposal of industrial pollutants? How can shipping practices be improved to minimize the impact on marine life? What can actually be done to protect American farmers from feeling the brunt of a trade war when raising subsidies only runs the risk of further alienating them from the global market? How do foreign governments target specific industries when trying to influence the American political landscape? Are foreign governments successful in changing the political landscape in America by targeting certain industries and how can it be prevented in the future? These issues are not just American problems, they are global issues and like it or not, this is a global society. We must learn to work together for the benefit all.
Image Citation
Portishead1. "Puzzle Pieces and Human Hands." iStock, 3 Feb. 2016, https://www.istockphoto.com/photo/puzzle-pieces-and-human-hands-gm508028808-85014827.