[user104658]

Originally Posted by bitontheslide

I don't think the debate is particularly relevant. If we have the capability to keep our air and our water clean, then we should do it. No debate, just do it.

I think this is a good point... Why would even a climate change denier think "nah its not real, so let's continue churning out pollution!"... I mean... Why wouldn't it be a case of "I don't think it's actually a concern but sure, let's clean up the planet anyway".

It indicates that the people (in power) who are resisting it have something to lose from increased environmental protections, and thus, their opinion has to be taken with a large pinch of salt. It's a competing interest... There's a reason that researchers are supposed to openly declare those.