Discussion Question #4

Of course, most Americans are looking forward to Obama's Stimulus Package, for one reason or another. In regards to its effects for the environment? I imagine that based on some of the projects i have heard would be included, it could be both helpful OR hurtful to the environment, so i did some research to take a closer look.

http://edition.cnn.com/2009/POLITICS/02/12/stimulus/?iref=mpstoryview#cnnSTCOther1

Based on CNN data as to how the taxpayer funds will be alloted, here is what i am figuring out.

Energy and Environment - This section seems to be getting a pretty big chunk of the money pie. At between $50-98 billion being invested here, what i am assuming is that a heavy influence on this investment would be in the research and development of more sustainable, and thus eco-friendly, energy sources (YAY Earth!). As well, perhaps beautification and cleaning projects will come into the mix, returning America to her reputation of being beautiful.

Agriculture and Rural Development - I am not sure whether the $16-34 billion investment in this area will end up benefitting the environment. While agriculture can be eco-friendly, I worry that this Stimulus investment will likely figure into farming subsidies and crop shifting or expanding, which ultimately aren't so great. Rural development, to me, means in some cases we will be disturbing nature to make room for more American families...so....??

Commerce Justice and Science - This section is getting around $15 billion. I mentioned it because as it includes science, perhaps scientific investment will lead to breakthroughs in ecological and medical research, which, in turn, would have prolific good (or bad?) effects on the environment. That would likely be a long ways away.