In his opinion piece, Eric Engle critiques West Virginia's reliance on fossil fuels as a moral failing that future generations will condemn, framing environmental degradation as a form of intergenerational injustice where the benefits accrue to few while the costs are borne by communities. By arguing that our current actions will be viewed as a "criminal act" by those who inherit the consequences, Engle advocates for a swift shift toward sustainable energy and a re-evaluation of economic priorities in the state, sparking introspection and accountability among readers about their role in addressing these complex challenges.