18-year-old wins a prize by regurgitating a bunch of politically correct stuff that he heard from the mainstream media

Local graduate wins nationwide science policy contest

Van Duinen recommends the government begin auctioning a limited number of emission allowances, which could be traded. Money raised by the auctions would be earmarked for research and implementation of renewable energies, like biofuels, wind and water power.

A "cap-and-trade" program would provide an incentive for industry to reduce emissions, leaving companies with allowances to trade for goods and services, Van Duinen said.

Part two of his initiative involves a heightened commitment to recycling.

"Perhaps the problem is not that we use too much, but that we reuse too little," said Van Duinen, whose $2,000 prize will feed his education account.

He said humankind has "surprisingly little time" to curb its dependence on fossil fuels, which contribute to climate change. His winning essay urges the next president to tenaciously pursue "sustainability," in which current demands for energy and natural resources won't compromise the ability of future generations to meet the same needs.