Editors, Vineyard Gazette;

I am a high school student and I have been coming to the Island since I was three weeks old. I love all aspects of the Island — the beaches, the lakes, the state forest, the trails, the culture and the people.

Many other people, I’m sure, share my sentiments. Like me, the majority of Island residents and visitors are aware of the danger that climate change poses to Martha’s Vineyard. These hazards have been highlighted by numerous Island-based groups (like the Vineyard Conservation Society and the Martha’s Vineyard Commission) and national projects (like the National Geological Survey), which are working to investigate and mitigate them.

The Vineyard Way is the name of Martha’s Vineyard’s climate action initiative. We all value what they have accomplished. Despite these concerted efforts, Island enthusiasts are also curious about what we can do to lessen the effects of climate change. But many of us are unaware of the benefits provided by the recently passed Inflation Reduction Act (IRA).

The IRA has numerous elements that Islanders can benefit from, including rebates for rooftop solar and better insulation as well as credits for house energy audits and modern electrical panels. Information about what is offered and how to benefit from incentives can be found on the website cleanenergy.gov, which is quite helpful.

It would be fantastic to see Island citizens and companies utilize these incentives to save the Island we care about so much.

Gordie Cromwell

Vineyard Haven and Brookline