If you want to avoid heated arguments, never discuss religion, politics, or whether the toilet paper roll should go over or under. - Al YankovicClimate Change could easily be added to this list of taboo subjects, especially at a Rotary meeting where we have such a diverse range of backgrounds and opinions; but "without discussion there will be no solution" so last week John (bravely) confronted the topic. He began by referring to the UN Paris Agreement (2015) to limit global warming to well below 2, preferably to 1.5 degrees Celsius, compared to pre-industrial levels; and noting that we are failing to achieve this and the scientists are becoming angry. Some of the consequences sounded a little far-fetched (e.g. the new shoreline at First Church) however John insisted that they are based on reputable, peer-reviewed, science. He concluded by referring to the Ministry for the Environment website, especially the page listing actions which we could all take to assist the situation www.mfe.govt.nz/climate-change/we-all-have-role-play/what-you-can-do-about-climate-changePersonally, the most sobering aspect of the presentation was just how close we are to some of the "tipping points" (think 15 years - within my lifetime) when the observed phenomena becomes irreversible and accelerates out of control. Will I now become vegan? Sorry, no. Would I consider one "meat-free" day per week? Maybe. |