There are two recent headlines that should have grabbed the attention, not to mention the hearts and minds, of readers worldwide. One was “Carbon dioxide increasing at record pace” and the other “Shell wins battle in war over Arctic oil.” Dieter Dans from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration reports: “It’s both disturbing and daunting” when talking about carbon dioxide that hit global averages of 400.83 parts per million. The planet has not seen levels like this in over 2 million years. Couple this carbon dioxide report with the news about the Shell corporation’s great Arctic victory regarding drilling and you have a news story that should by all rights be creating headlines of concern worldwide.
What is at stake here transcends traditional news concerns and along with the prospect of nuclear annihilation stands alone as an issue if ignored or left unresolved will very likely threaten civilization as we know it. It is tragic and unconscionable that political and corporate interests in this country are spending millions upon millions of dollars to convince and placate and reassure the domestic population that their concerns are unfounded and rapidly changing climate patterns are nothing but the rantings of disillusioned liberal scientists. However, science matters — facts matter — and the continued bombardment of corporate propaganda will not alter the realities of climate change induced by the burning of fossil fuels.
It is not too late, but the window is closing. Ignoring climate change and increasing carbon dioxide levels while promoting ever more fossil fuel exploration and exploitation is a suicide pact for humanity and future generations. A reasoned position would involve acknowledging the enormity of this problem and discovering safe and clean energy alternatives while abandoning fossil fuel exploration. We actually have two very distinct choices. We can stay on our present course, which will insure total and probably irreversible environmental collapse. Or we, as a race, can make the collective decision to safeguard the planet and future generations and embark on a clear and clean energy revolution that promises both hope and a sustained quality of life.
Jim Sawyer
Edmonds
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