FROM CNN's Jack Cafferty:
While Al Gore warns about the dire consequences of global warming, apparently one of those consequences is that he's filling his pockets - big time. The New York Times reports that few stand to profit as much from the green energy revolution as the former vice president does.
[cnn-photo-caption image=http://i2.cdn.turner.com/cnn/2009/images/11/03/art.-gore.jpg caption=""]
Critics say he could become the world's first "carbon billionaire." They suggest Gore is profiteering by promoting government policies that would drive billions of dollars into companies he's invested in. Some say he's fattening his wallet by what they call alarmism and exaggerations about global warming.
Gore insists that he's just putting his money where his mouth is. He says his investments are consistent with what he's been advocating for years.
The Times reports that Gore has invested millions of dollars in environmentally friendly energy ventures; things like carbon trading markets, solar power, electric vehicles and waterless urinals. Actually - we could probably do without those.
The former vice president has also given away millions to a nonprofit he started and to another group focused on climate change. Plus he's invested in areas like technology and media with no ties to the environment.
Bottom line here: Al Gore is not a lobbyist, and has never asked the government for funding or a specific law that would directly benefit one of his investments. But, he has advocated relentlessly for policies that would get the country off using coal and oil... while investing in companies that could make this happen.
Here’s my question to you: What is Al Gore’s real motive when it comes to global warming?
Interested to know which ones made it on air?
Josh writes:
Better to profit from improving the environment than to profit from destroying people’s retirements the way that some financial organizations have. And he's been fighting for the cause for decades before it ever seemed that it could be profitable. As far as I'm concerned, he deserves those bucks.
Hans from Alabama writes:
Jack, You disappoint me. First, virtually all serious scientists agree on global warming. Secondly, evidence of the harm of global warming mounts every day. Al Gore is someone who has worked hard and tirelessly to warn us about the issue… It is a huge problem and it requires urgent and significant action. He is trying to advance the cause by investing in companies that may bring us solutions. He could lose it all or make a fortune. What are you doing about the problem?
Rick from Satellite Beach, Florida writes:
Jack, I'm really amazed that the Times finally realized this and even more amazed that they actually reported on this. As with most controversial issues, the old adage "follow the money" is usually a very good starting point in determining real intent. If Al Gore were truly being altruistic in his concern for global warming, he would not live in a McMansion and cruise the world in a Lear jet.
Mike writes:
Al Gore is a private citizen. He is also, like our society, a capitalist. He's making money? What kind of criticism is that? At least he is making money on something that will benefit our national security!
John from Michigan writes:
Jack, I'm here in Michigan, having endured two colder than usual winters in a row as well as two cooler than usual summers in a row. October averaged 10 degrees below normal. I would have to say Al Gore's motivation is a different kind of green, cold hard cash.
Annie from Atlanta writes:
I think the guy actually cares about global warming. It makes sense that he invests his money in what will be the wave of the future, if we clean up our act in time to actually have one.