Climate Stewardship Act of 2005

The Climate Stewardship Act of 2005 proposes a comprehensive federal framework to address climate change through scientific research and a market-based "cap-and-trade" system. The bill would require large industrial facilities that emit more than 10,000 metric tons of greenhouse gases annually to hold tradable permits for their emissions, effectively placing a limit on total national pollution while allowing companies to buy and sell credits. Additionally, the legislation would fund new research into climate impacts on low-income communities, create a national database to track emissions, and establish a non-profit corporation to manage the distribution of emission allowances.

For the average citizen, this bill aims to reduce long-term environmental risks by incentivizing businesses to adopt cleaner technologies and more efficient manufacturing processes. While the primary regulatory requirements fall on large industrial sectors like power plants and factories, the bill includes educational outreach for the agricultural sector and grants to help small manufacturers transition to greener equipment. By creating a market for carbon credits, the bill seeks to lower national greenhouse gas levels through economic incentives rather than direct government mandates on individuals.