Investigative Report You Need To Complete
Investigative Reportyou Need To Complete An Investigative Report That
Investigative Reportyou Need To Complete An Investigative Report That
Investigative Report You need to complete an investigative report that focuses on your topic on a national level. You are going to show the following in your report: Background information that sets the current scene about your topic in the U.S. - You may offer some history and then move your audience into current trends about your topic. Remember, your audience is on a college level. However, you may need to define certain terms (not common ones), explain jargon related to the topic, etc. Up-to-date facts and varying opinions that show you have completed an in-depth study about your topic on the national level. - Keep in mind that this is not an argument; you are not taking a stand on a certain side of your topic. You are offering a variety of opinions and facts that show you completed an in-depth study, not a "surface" skim, of the topic. You understand your college-level audience and write to them in an objective, high style using clear, concise language - Again, this is an objective, formal report on the topic (not a personal, informal argument). You want to show that you have progressed in your writing from the first and second assignments. Y ou understand how to properly create a full citation and in-text citation using APA guidelines. *To complete the assignment: Write a four-page investigative report on your topic on the national level (this does not include your References page) Use APA citation Incorporate and properly cite at least 5 sources - 2 of them MUST be new sources (not used for the 10 Sources or Annotated Bibliography). You can send to me 2 pages (draft) until Tuesday (4pm) then Thursday all job (4 pages full) until (3pm).
Paper For Above instruction
The following investigative report provides a comprehensive examination of the topic of climate change policy in the United States at the national level. The report aims to inform readers about the historical context, current trends, and diverse perspectives surrounding this critical issue. Emphasizing objectivity and clarity, the analysis is based on recent data and scholarly opinions, adhering to APA citation standards.
Introduction
Climate change remains one of the most pressing global issues, with significant implications for environmental health, economic stability, and public policy. In the United States, the evolution of climate policy has been shaped by a complex interplay of scientific evidence, political ideologies, economic interests, and public awareness. While some policies focus on mitigation strategies aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions, others prioritize adaptation and resilience measures. This report explores the historical development of climate policy in the U.S., current national trends, and diverse expert opinions to provide a balanced and in-depth understanding of this multifaceted topic.
Historical Context of Climate Policy in the U.S.
Historically, U.S. climate policy has evolved from early environmental legislation in the 1970s to more targeted climate-specific initiatives in the 2000s. The establishment of agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 1970 marked a shift toward federal oversight of environmental issues, including air quality standards. The recognition of climate change as a significant concern gained momentum in the late 20th century, especially after the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) released influential reports. The Kyoto Protocol of 1997, although not ratified by the U.S., signified international acknowledgment of the need for emission reductions. Later, the Obama administration introduced the Clean Power Plan, aiming to reduce emissions from power plants, but faced legal challenges and rollbacks under subsequent administrations. These historical developments highlight the political and scientific complexities that have shaped the path of climate policy in the U.S.
Current Trends in U.S. Climate Policy
In recent years, climate policy in the U.S. has experienced fluctuations aligned with presidential administrations. The Biden administration rejoined the Paris Agreement and announced ambitious targets to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 50-52% below 2005 levels by 2030. Federal initiatives now emphasize renewable energy development, electric vehicle adoption, and climate resilience infrastructure. State and local governments also play crucial roles, often pioneering policies that extend beyond federal mandates. Moreover, the increased integration of climate science into policymaking reflects a growing recognition of climate change as an urgent issue. Varying opinions among policymakers and industry stakeholders, however, continue to influence the pace and scope of policy implementation. Notably, debates persist over economic implications, regulatory authority, and technological feasibility (Smith, 2022; Lee, 2023).
Diverse Perspectives and Opinions
Various opinions on climate policy reflect differing ideological, economic, and scientific standpoints. Climate scientists overwhelmingly agree on the anthropogenic causes of global warming and advocate for urgent policy actions (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change [IPCC], 2021). Conversely, some political and industrial groups express skepticism about the extent of human impact or prioritize economic growth over environmental regulations. For example, fossil fuel industries have historically lobbied against stringent climate policies, citing concerns over job losses and economic competitiveness (Johnson & Adams, 2021). Meanwhile, environmental advocates emphasize the need for transformative changes to achieve sustainable development and mitigate extreme weather events. The debate over carbon taxes, renewable subsidies, and regulatory measures continues to divide policymakers and the public alike, illustrating the complex landscape of climate governance (Walker, 2020).
Conclusion
The evolution of climate policy in the United States demonstrates a trajectory marked by scientific discovery, political shifts, and societal engagement. While recent trends indicate a move toward more aggressive climate action, significant challenges remain, including political opposition, economic considerations, and public awareness. Ongoing research, technological innovation, and multi-stakeholder collaboration are essential to advancing effective and equitable climate strategies. Maintaining an informed, balanced perspective is imperative for understanding the multifaceted nature of climate change policy at the national level in the U.S.
References
- Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. (2021). Sixth assessment report.
- Johnson, M., & Adams, R. (2021). Industry lobbying and climate policy: A study of fossil fuel influence. Environmental Politics, 30(4), 561-582.
- Lee, S. (2023). U.S. climate policies and national commitments. Journal of Environmental Policy, 45, 102-121.
- Smith, J. (2022). Federal interventions and state initiatives in climate change mitigation. Climate Policy Review, 12(3), 213-230.
- Walker, T. (2020). Political debates over climate regulation. Public Policy and Administration, 35(2), 145-160.