Hosted by the Nicholas Institute for Environmental Policy Solutions and Nicholas School of the Environment, the discussion was led by Tim Profeta of the Nicholas Institute.  Just to note, McCain's environmental advisor was invited but unable to attend. Before the discussion began, I was curious if there were any huge differences between each candidate's enviornmental views and plans.

According to Utech, both set of candidate plans share very broad goals but he believes that Clinton has more specific plans and a record in the Senate working to improve the environment.  For example, Clinton is a member of the Senate Environmental Committee and has taken leadership roles in several initiatives.  These include Clinton reaching across the aisle to get things done.  Specificlally, better monitoring of air quality, retro-fitting diesel engines, a clean job trainng program, and working with McCain to look at global energy security and its correlation with the environment. 

Grumet began with a general overview of the global climate change problem and why the US and the world is in the position it is.  He mentioned that truly the only way we can come up with a solution is to first understand the affects of the dozens of decisions we make everyday and their impact on the environment.  Grumet did a great job of explaining Obama's position through stories of how he has worked to make real changes, including initiating the discussion on CAFE standards that were recently increased. 

After the introduction, the discussion turned to allowances of carbon credits, how to best encourage clean technology innovation, and the reasons for supporting 100% auction allowances. 

If you are interested in watching the discussion, it will be online on the Nicholas School Web site in the next couple of days.