To the editor:

If carbon dioxide emissions are not curbed in the immediate future, Kansas could experience the highest temperature increase, comparative to other states, at a potential 10-degree temperature spike, according to a recent study. Further, research from Kansas University demonstrates climate change could have a direct, negative impact on our state’s agricultural production. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has acknowledged cap and trade legislation intended to reduce greenhouse gas emissions contains more benefits than losses for farmers. Yet the majority of our congressional delegation remains opposed to cap and trade legislation, and our state Legislature recently approved legislation that will enable the construction of a large carbon-emitting coal plant.

To protect Kansas’ agriculture economy, Sen. Roberts and Sen. Brownback must act to strengthen and pass the American Clean Energy and Security Act. This will be an important step to protecting our state’s agriculture and to avoiding the costly threats of climate change. It will also accelerate a transition to clean, renewable energy.