The article critiques the notion of hydroelectric dams in Idaho being labeled as 'clean' energy, emphasizing the profound harm they cause to tribal communities and the environment. Declines in salmon populations, originally integral to the culture and sustenance of the Shoshone-Paiute and Shoshone-Bannock tribes, persist as a result of these dams, leading to ongoing advocacy for ecological restoration. The piece also reflects on past energy advocacy efforts to redefine 'clean' energy to encompass social and environmental responsibilities in addition to carbon emissions, underscoring a larger narrative about justice and climate action in the West.
Idaho Power's hydroelectric dams, while producing non-carbon power, inflict significant damage on tribal communities, particularly eradicating salmon vital to their culture without consent.
In the climate advocacy of two decades ago, we pushed for a true definition of 'clean' energy, considering its environmental and social impacts alongside carbon emissions.
The struggle for returning salmon to the Upper Snake River illustrates ongoing injustices faced by tribal communities, highlighting a deeper conflict between energy production and ecological preservation.
Despite an ongoing climate crisis, resilience is evident in how Western U.S. states are mobilizing efforts against climate change, pursuing various environmentally sustainable initiatives.
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