As the elections approach, anticipate the same old rhetoric surrounding green policies. However, upon closely examining our surroundings and our neighbors, it becomes apparent that things are not as they ought to be. A deeper examination of spaces inhabited by others in different regions reveals significant issues… Poverty, disease, lack of education, destruction, and encroachment on natural habitats—this list continues to grow.
Many readers can relate and think: “I’m fortunate.” We enjoy clean water, access to affordable education, stable jobs that provide for ourselves and our families, and secure housing, among other privileges. We reside in what is known as a ‘first world country,’ a developed nation. We are indeed the fortunate ones.
Yet, with this wealth and fortune comes immense power, and as it has been said, “with great power comes great responsibility.” One aspect of injustice for which we might all take responsibility and instigate change through education and action is climate change. This issue could also represent the most significant challenge confronting humanity and the natural world. Should climate change go unaddressed, other noble causes may become irrelevant as humanity stands on the brink of extinction. While this may seem dramatic, it holds truth if the experts’ predictions are accurate.
Climate change scientists are tirelessly working to raise awareness among governments and populations, particularly in developed nations, about the perils of unchecked unsustainable material growth. They face ongoing scrutiny, which is justifiable, as any scientific theory must undergo testing and retesting. Most scientists globally now concur that climate change is occurring and that adopting sustainable practices across all facets of life, along with ‘green technology,’ may play a role in mitigating this crisis.
However, as governments and organizations scrutinize the climate change discourse, the ‘green agenda’ and the approaches to achieve it (beginning with courageous, robust government policies disseminating to individuals) become watered down to align with our leaders’ political ambitions.
The impactful yet often overlooked choices individuals can adopt to combat climate change have garnered considerable attention. These include reusing, repairing, recycling, reducing car usage, minimizing flights, and conserving water. However, without the acknowledgment from large businesses, councils, and governments that: A) Climate change is real, B) It is a result of human activities, and C) It can be mitigated, individual efforts will prove futile.
Governments and policy makers are receiving a clear message from scientists and environmental advocacy groups, yet they are not responding with informed actions swiftly enough, primarily due to economic interests and self-serving (i.e., vote-winning) motivations.
Thus, here’s the crux of the matter: while we individually contribute our part, we collectively heed the alarming warnings, yet our democratically elected leaders remain inactive. The grave responsibility that now lies on our shoulders extends to compelling our governments to listen, learn, and act, before it becomes too late.
By David Livingstone
