The Candidates on the Environment

After the first debate, still wondering where the candidates stand on the environment? DeSmog Blog does a nice job of rating both U.S. and Canadian candidates.

Obama gets an 8 out of 10 for his Clear, long-term goals for Greenhouse Gas Reductions, Higher Fuel Economy Standards and Investment in Next-Generation vehicles (i.e. Hybrid and Electric), Investment in Green Jobs and the Development of a Renewable Energy Technology sector and other components of his environmental plaform.

McCain's rating is 4 out of 10 for lacking Investment in Green Jobs and green infrastructure, as well as a host of other components missing from his environmental platform. DeSmog also points out that "while he has "talked the talk," the League of Conservation Voters gave McCain a ZERO in their latest report card based on his absence from voting on all major climate change and environmental bills presented in the Senate."

Regardless, both men are far more likely to promote international cooperation on climate issues and set clear greenhouse gas reduction targets than their predecessor. How the Wall Street bail out will effect either candidates long term clean energy and climate change mitigation plans remains to be seen.