Fostering Appalachia's New Economy

The video discusses the long-standing economic challenges faced by regions dependent on the coal industry, highlighting the resource curse and demographic issues. It emphasizes the need to transition to a sustainable and diverse economy, focusing on local community development and amenities. The video also covers policy initiatives aimed at economic transition, including investment in clean energy and solar power, to create viable local economies.

What is the 'resource curse' as mentioned in the context of coal-dependent regions?

• A situation where resource extraction leads to economic and demographic decline

• A strategy to diversify local economies

• A phenomenon where resource-rich areas experience economic growth

• A policy to increase coal production

Why did coal jobs continue to decline despite political promises?

• Due to federal legislation

• Because of global energy changes and cheap natural gas

• Because of local government policies

• As a result of increased coal demand

What is a key strategy for revitalizing local economies in coal-dependent regions?

• Increasing coal production

• Reinvesting in local amenities and creating sustainable communities

• Encouraging out-migration

• Reducing local taxes

What is one of the main focuses of the national Economic Transition Platform?

• Increasing coal exports

• Promoting fossil fuel usage

• Investing in clean energy and solar installations

• Reducing renewable energy investments

How do solar installations benefit small commercial enterprises in these regions?

• By making them dependent on coal

• By stabilizing and reducing their energy costs

• By limiting their energy options

• By increasing their energy costs