A leading economist explains why a carbon tax is the best strategy for cutting greenhouse gases and the use of fossil fuels. — Many economists argue that painful though it might be to consumers, the best way to address climate change is to put a "price" on carbon dioxide and other carbon-based emissions, thereby making fossil fuels more expensive and alternative energy sources more competitive. Over the last several years, Gilbert Metcalf, an economist at Tufts University [and research associate of the MIT Global Change Program], has calculated the costs and consequences of such a policy. In the January/February issue of Technology Review he explains why a carbon tax is a good idea. More...