Regardless of Party Affiliation, Elections Affect the Future of Cleantech

Ecotech Institute, the first and only college focused entirely on preparing America's workforce for careers in clean energy, has put together five things to consider this political season. Regardless of your political affiliation or views on the environment and energy, being informed is the key.

"We strongly encourage our students to educate themselves in every way possible about how policy affects cleantech industries," says Michael Seifert, president of Ecotech Institute. "Regardless of political affiliation, one thing remains consistent – every vote has implications; everyone must educate themselves about who and what to support."

Ecotech Institute recommends the following five things to consider over the next few weeks:

1. Read sources that outline candidate's stance on cleantech issues. While different media take different views on politicians' positions, take the time to listen or read each candidate's beliefs and plans. Go to the candidate's website and seek out third-party sources, such as Science Debate, which weighs science-related responses.

2. Fact-check everything a candidate says. While it may be difficult to find politically neutral sources, fact-checking websites do exist.

3. Practice "big picture" thinking. When politicians discuss their beliefs, policies and practices, apply your knowledge of history, science, philosophy, anthropology and more to understand the implications of what they are saying. In addition, what are they saying they will do that will truly impact our planet? Here is a related blog post aptly named, "What is Crucial?"

4. Don't ignore the connection between a "green state of mind" and politics. Policy affects innovation, job creation, funding sources and more – many of which fuel the cleantech sector. Understand the connection so you can better deduce the implications of each vote. Here is an Ecotech blog post on the politics of the environment.

5. Take a look at pending legislation and read about its impact. While there are a variety of state and national bills to watch, many organizations like the Colorado Cleantech Industry Association outline public policy issues to watch.

"The future of the cleantech industries relies on politicians, businesses and voters to come together and align on what will make a positive difference for our communities and planet," said Kyle Crider, Ecotech Institute's director of sustainability. "Education is important in every election and that time is now."

About Ecotech Institute
Ecotech Institute is the first and only college entirely focused on preparing America's workforce for careers in renewable energy and sustainability and is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges. Launched in April 2010 in Denver, Colorado, it offers six highly practical renewable energy degree programs that provide graduates with skills valued by today's alternative renewable energy employers. Classes start once per quarter and applications are always accepted. Financial assistance is available to those who qualify. Ecotech Institute is a division of Education Corporation of America. For more information about Ecotech Institute, visit ecotechinstitute.com or call 877-326-5576.

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