Cohen Takeaway

Many of the issues regarding sustainability and resiliency lies behind financial support. Without adequate funding, who will clean those subway tracks or plant those trees?  A simple answer is to increase taxes to raise revenue, but that would obviously create public dissent. According to the reading, a more creative solution is needed. Instead of outright taking a percentage of their paychecks, the government can introduce new ways to increase spending. For instance, many of the bills that we pay (TV, internet) used to be free. Driving in congested areas used to also be free. Now, we pay these fees (aka hidden taxes) without realizing that they’re basically just taxes.