In this Mother Jones article, climate leader and author Bill McKibben tackles a tough truth: if we’re serious about addressing climate change and building more just communities, progressives must learn to say “yes” to the right kinds of development—clean energy infrastructure and affordable housing.
McKibben highlights a key challenge: while many people support climate action and housing solutions in theory, local opposition often blocks projects like wind farms, solar installations, and infill housing. This opposition—whether from NIMBYs (“Not In My Backyard”) or well-meaning progressives who worry about local impacts—can slow down urgently needed progress.
Here’s the case McKibben makes:
- We Need Clean Energy Infrastructure Fast: Transitioning to renewables requires building solar farms, wind turbines, and transmission lines. These projects must happen quickly to avoid the worst impacts of climate change.
- We Need More Housing in the Right Places: The housing crisis and climate crisis are intertwined. Building denser, infill housing near jobs, transit, and services helps reduce sprawl, cuts emissions from driving, and keeps communities affordable and equitable.
McKibben urges progressives to shift their thinking. Saying “yes” to these projects doesn’t mean giving up on environmental protections or community input—it means prioritizing the greater good and ensuring that the solutions to our climate and housing crises move forward.
At MountainTrue and Neighbors for More Neighbors WNC, this aligns with our work to promote smart growth and renewable energy in Western North Carolina. We believe we can protect our forests and rivers and build clean energy infrastructure. We can reduce sprawl and create affordable housing that keeps our communities vibrant and resilient.
Read McKibben’s full piece here: Progressives, Say Yes to Housing and Clean Energy.
It’s time to get serious about saying “yes” to the future we need—because the climate clock is ticking.