Sunday, March 18, 2018

Estonia is a rising star.

I don't see problems for Estonia so long as the world is making commitments to good outcomes for smaller countries. It is our responsibility to reach out and protect people from growing dangers of the Climate Crisis.

I think the leaders of Estonia are very smart to have strong relationships with Europe, both in trade and governance.

Estonia is said to have 70% of the oil shale development. It is moving toward renewable energies and with an alliance with the EU there is no doubt it will reach it's goals. The people have to be front and center for Estonia. In the northeast region of Ida-Viru the oil shale industry pollutes the air, water and soil. It is causing serious health problems with higher rates of respiratory and cardiovascular disorders. That is not acceptable. So while looking for a strong economy selling power on the grid, it needs to reclaim the land in Ida-Viru to return well being to the citizens there.

Estonia's ambitions in green energy should impress the world. I am confident with France as a good friend, the Estonians will achieve a better quality of life, especially for the children. Children exposed to impacts of pollution develop lung disease at an early age.

There is every reason to be optimistic about Estonians future.

In a different light, the USA has yet to be a solid partner with a global community moving toward far lower emissions of GHG. I found the dedication of Governor Brown and Henry Henderson of the NRDC important. I think they can harness the will of mayors across the country to turn the corner on the Climate Crisis. 

Cities have rights similar to State's Rights. City governance doesn't end with deciding where to put the next traffic light. Elected city officials can find cooperation between each other and set common goals and timelines.

There is no reason to believe the federal government is the do all or end all for funding either. President Trump has stated there are significant tax cuts for Americans this year. If local officials explain a project that will ultimately provide safe, green energy at reasonable cost; the electorate will most probably see their tax decrease this year as an investment for their children in a one-time funding of such ventures.

I have hope for Estonia and the mayors with vision and commitment. If the young team that went to the Winter Olympics this year is an indication of Estonia's future, it is very ambitious. It appears as though Estonia is rebuilding it's Olympic dreams.

...At Pyeongchang, Estonia (click here) is represented by 22 athletes from six sports (click here): alpine skiing, biathlon, cross-country skiing, Nordic combined, ski jumping and speed skating. Out of the 22 athletes, twelve are making their Olympic debut. The youngest athletes of Team Estonia are 17-year old alpine skier Tormis Laine and ski jumper Kevin Maltsev. The most senior of the team is biathlete Roland Lessing; the 39-year-old is competing in his fifth Olympic Games....