Because public policy attempts to move our cities forward collectively, it runs into problems with consensus, education, and inclusion. Where the reach of public policy influence ends, private industry takes over, creating commercial solutions that address the collective demands of private citizens through innovation and design. As a result, we’ve slowly added better, cheaper insulation to our homes during renovations, installed more efficient tankless water heaters when our old natural gas tanks fail, and even become fanatics of electric vehicles.

Sometimes, as is the case with consumer brands like Tesla, a fanatical following can push collective demand through vanity, envy, and prestige.

Something happened over the last few years that changed my perspective on climate activism. I was never a conspiracist or non-believer in climate change, but just as bad, I was a passive global citizen and inactive participant in the fight to reduce carbon emissions.

Investing into more renewable energies is only one piece of the puzzle. Policy makers must encourage homeowners to make their homes more efficient so we don't waste our renewable energy.