Sunday, March 30, 2008

Globe and Mail Earth Hour Counterpoint Part 4

FYI I studied Environmental Science and Urban Geography at U Of T. But the man who I most found rational and cogent was John Crispo, my economics professor, probably one of the smartest men I've ever met, and he thankfully put me in my place enough times during my tree hugging days. I in no way suggest he validates or supports any of my arguments.

I tend to take a page out my interpretation of his style.

Now to discuss your argument:

""Your idea that there is "another side", some credible source claiming that anthropocentric greenhouse gas emissions are benign in our atmosphere. Is absolutely false ."
Geoffrey, simply when we animals on the planet exhale, we release CO2 into the air, that is a form of an anthropocentric gas emissions. I wont use the term 'greenhouse', for we do not live in a greenhouse, well maybe some people do, if they own one or are homeless. Plants use CO2 to thrive. Humans and animals eat plants to survive. Its actually a rather novel cycle.
"Yes there are many unanswered questions ,"
If there are unknown and unquantifiable variables on environment changes how can you conclude with any certainty that any policy will make things better, if there is such a thing as better.
"which is not surprising considering that our study of atmosheric science is relatively young"
Technically, the study of the weather has been one of the biggest questions since the beginning of human history, from Weather Gods to sundials. Just now its David Suzuki and satellites.
"there is scientific debate occurring , ... that human activity is a significant factor in accelerated rates of greenhouse gasses, and subsequent climate changes."
Yes, we exhale CO2 and expel methane.
"No credible source claims anthropocentric driven climate is bunk "or"...claims the IPCC is in anyway fraudulent"
Try State of Fear by Michael Crichton
Bottom line is not if we can stop change because we can not, and thats really alright, but up to half the planet will probably die because of it. Lets try to give people the means to save themselves.
Jobs, food, shelter, toques; simple.