Skip to content

LETTER: There’s plenty of good news

From Kaslo reader Carole Summer
8722495_web1_copy_ThinkstockPhotos-dv2012017-1-
Photo: Thinkstock/Getty Images

With all we’re hearing about the changing climate — mega hurricanes, massive wildfires, rising sea levels, scorching heat waves — it’s difficult to have hope.

But there’s plenty of good news. It’s clear that preventing climate change brings about economic, health, and other co-benefits. According to the International Energy Agency, global CO2 emissions have plateaued for the past three years, even as the global economy grew.

The carbon price movement is growing. Forty countries and 24 cities, states, and regions are putting a price on carbon. Wind and solar costs have dropped dramatically. Clean energy subsidies and carbon pricing will accelerate this further.

China’s coal usage has peaked and is now declining. Their renewable energy sector is growing faster than its fossil fuel and nuclear power capacity. The divestment movement boasts 668 signatories around the world.

Though Trump withdrew from the Paris Agreement, many states, cities, counties, and universities have committed to the emissions reductions. Standing Rock showed the power of a diverse grassroots movement led by those most vulnerable to fossil fuel exploitation.

Recognizing progress keeps us hopeful and avoids the feeling of helplessness. We must continue to reach across traditional boundaries and build a better world for all.

Carole Summer

Kaslo