Wednesday, February 14, 2007

Global warming science is clear


We read with interest Dr. Don J. Easterbrook'_s assessment of global warming but believe his opinion contradicts a tsunami of contrary evidence collected by scientists around the world.

For the average citizen, this quickly becomes confusing. One fact remains, _regardless of Easterbrook'_s opinion. The overwhelming majority of his scientific colleagues disagree with his conclusion.

In addition to the recent Intergovernmental Panel Report, the U.S. National Academy of Sciences, the gold standard of objective scientific assessment, joined together with 10 other National Academies of Science organizations and stated that "the scientific understanding of climate change is now sufficiently clear to justify nations taking prompt action. It is vital that all nations identify cost-effective steps they can take now to contribute to substantial and long-term reductions in net global greenhouse gas emissions" (Joint Statement of Science Academies, 2005), including but not limited to C02.

It is also important to note that the recent Panel Report (its fourth in 17 years) resulted from a three-year review of hundreds of scientific studies of climate shifts. The report was authored by 800 scientists from more than 130 countries and was reviewed by another 2,500 scientific expert reviewers. It concluded that global warming, with near certainty (90 percent confidence) stems from human generated C02 and other greenhouse gases and that dodging the global warming bullet is out of the question at this point. In other words, it'_s not a question as to whether temperatures and ocean levels will rise. It is a question of how high.

While we respectfully disagree with Easterbrook's opinion, it is important to maintain perspective. As with virtually any position, there are detractors, including many with impressive credentials. We have seen this with countless issues from genocide to smoking. So, when there are thousands of scientists and scientific organizations saying one thing and, literally, a handful of individuals saying the contrary, where would you place your bet? When we gain such perspective, the choice is clear.

This is where the average citizen comes in and needs to understand that he or she can make a difference. Reducing our carbon emissions will help reduce the overall warming impact. This is an important time for our planet and for our children, who will inherit the legacy of our present actions. Contact your representatives and urge them to take action to stop climate change. Call the ERC at 726-4333 to find out how you can help stem the tide.

Craig Barry

Environmental Resource Center

Ketchum




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