In reply to our local tag team of climate commentators, it is important to confirm with you, that it is anthropogenic climate change that we refer to. It is not contested, by anyone, that the earth’s climate is influenced by many factors. That is not the debate here. The debate is around the influence of human activity on the climate systems and what to do about it.
Regarding the extent of influence from anthropogenic activity, personally, I rely absolutely on the peer reviewed climate science by these professionals each working in their associated fields. The level of consensus that exists around climate science is unequivocal, according to the science fraternity itself. My opinion counts for nothing on these issues of science and respectfully, neither does yours.
Of course there are also many scientists who are working on the peripheries to capture more detail, but until their work is peer reviewed, then us lay people are on weak grounds to quote them as being correct.
On the issues of solving the climate crisis, we are now moving towards further crucial global agreements that will enable some more certainty to governments, business, investors and individuals looking ahead. Our eminent economists have been designing how this might work for many years.
Again, I rely absolutely on what economists are giving us as base information around dealing with mitigating the worst impacts of climate change. Of course, on economics, most of us do have an opinion, and sure there are many ways to approach this problem. However, the vast majority of countries are now on board, with few exceptions, to substantially reduce their emissions over the coming decades.
The debate has moved on, regardless of those who still remain skeptical (def. one who maintains doubt or disbelief) or those who still deny (def. declare untrue; contradict; reject) the science and/or the economics of action on climate change. Of course, some will be stuck in a wait and see, do nothing, or delaying mode for ever. Others will remain indifferent, but most will become energised and enthused and see the truth and the opportunities, as time goes on.
What is really needed now is the next stage of this debate, a positive framed conversation on the features and benefits of a “carbon economy’ and the clean bright future that will be the legacy of what we do now and in the coming years.
Stephen Lockhart,
The Climate Reality Project
