There is now scientific consensus that climate change is happening and that human activity is at best a major contributory factor and at worst entirely responsible. The release of greenhouse gases such as methane from livestock and carbon dioxide(CO2) from burning fossil fuels, combined with continued destruction of forests (which absorb the CO2), has led to an exponential rise in atmospheric CO2 concentration since the beginning of the industrial revolution. These greenhouse gases gather in the upper atmosphere reflecting heat back to the earth. This is what generates a rise in average global temperature, a rise which interferes with the complex climatic systems that operate across the globe; many areas will become warmer, some cooler. The pattern of rainfall may also be disrupted leading to both droughts and floods.
Climate change poses an urgent and potentially devastating threat to humankind. If current trends in the release of greenhouse gases continue it is expected that the world will soon reach a 'tipping point' where massive climatic change will occur. At this tipping point(estimated at around 450-550ppm equivalent of CO2) action to reduce emissions will be too late as the warmed atmosphere will generate a positive feedback loop through the release of CO2 from Siberian permafrost and the increased decomposition of organic materials in the rainforest areas. Action to prevent catastrophic climate change (i.e. a rise of greater than 2 degrees centigrade which approximates to this tipping point) therefore has to occur before the worst problems are revealed. If the average global temperature rises by more than 2 degrees the effects on humankind will be largely mediated through economic and social disaster. Probable examples are the flooding of Bangladesh, the Maldives, the Thames estuary and Grangemouth.
Such catastrophic events would see millions lose their homes, their incomes and their social networks. Furthermore, the agricultural basis for the food supply of the globe will be under threat. This includes not only flooded land, but increasing drought and pestilence with increasing incidence of severe weather and unpredictability. The globalised nature of the world economy leaves few safe from the ructions of climate change. A failure of the rice crop in South East Asia could cause the 21st century equivalent of the Irish potato famine, but effecting 2 billion people. With such devastating scenarios in mind, a concerted and co-ordinated effort is required on a local, national and international level to avert global disaster.
We at PTT believe that to act now in the face of climate change and diminishing gas and oil supplies is the only option.The task, though monumental, is achievable and it is a task which is in the hands of the community, not just a select few. If we work together and embrace a new way of life to cut carbon emissions and our dependence on fossil fuels, then we can create the sort of community we can be proud to be a part of. We hope you will join us in creating a better tomorrow. |
