Definitions and Responsibility
Do you have a Twitter or Facebook account? Have you noticed in your newsfeed the term climate change? It is all over the news and internet these days. And now the big question is; do you know what it is?
If you are someone like me and you want to understand terminology,then it is best to look things up. So, I decided to look up the words climate and change separately in the Oxford English Dictionary. Climate is the regular pattern of weather conditions of a particular place.
Change is defined as; to alter, make or become different. Now that we have the basic understanding of the words, we must find out what the two words mean together.
Climate change as defined by the OED is: change in global or regional patterns, in particular a change apparent from the mid to late 20th century onwards and attributed largely to the increased levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide produced by the use of fossil fuels.
Now we must ask ourselves: do we believe this is happening? Well, when someone doesn’t know the answer to a hard question, one should consult an expert in the field. As an example, if you are not feeling well and want to see if you are sick, you will go to the doctor for proper diagnosis. As for climate change; the consensus is in among those experts who study the topic.
On its website, NASA confirms that over 97% or more of actively publishing climate scientists believe climate change is happening and is human caused. So the experts are saying without question that climate change is happening and moreover is human caused. This is a startling contrast to the percentage of Americans who believe climate change is occurring.
In a recent Yale study, only 63% of Americans believed that climate change is happening. As we can see, there is a clear distinction between what the public believes and what the most educated scientist studying the issue knows is happening.
Who would want people to not believe in climate change? I would guess it would be those who would lose money if carbon pollution is regulated. When it comes to the small percentage of scientist who do not believe climate change is happening one might ask why they disagree. All you have to do is follow the money. Many scientist who deny climate change have had direct financial support from organizations that promote climate denial.
Last week, Pope Francis had this to say about climate change, “I am convinced that we can make a difference, I’m sure. And I have no doubt that the United States – and this Congress – have an important role to play,” he said, “Now is the time for creative actions and strategies aimed at implementing a culture of care.”
His words are those of both hope and expectation for the United States government and people. Let us not forget the Golden Rule: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you (Matthew 7:12).”
Those most affected by climate change are those less fortunate and poor among us. Due to the inherent inequalities within our current way of life; the rich will need to help those who cannot help themselves. As an American, we have a lifestyle that is both lavish and unsustainable compared to many other countries. We must stand together to enable others to enjoy basic human rights. People deserve a life not threatened by rising sea-level or extreme storms. Because climate change affects everybody, that’s the reason why everyone should care.
If you want to make a difference; learn your ecological footprint.
Darren is a super senior majoring in Environmental Studies. He wishes one day to work for large buisnesses as their sustainability consultant. Darren strives everyday to improve the status quo. Shoot him an email if you want to talk atdarren.bingham@aggiemail.usu.edu or on twitter @darrenbusu.