The Tide is Turning Against Climate Denying Luddites; Sustainability Movement Gaining Momentum

Some time ago, an acquaintance of mine said he was satisfied to let the next generation solve the puzzle of global warming.  For the time being, he said he'd enjoy the warmer weather.  In light of now overwhelming scientific opinion and social sensibilities those statements now seem irresponsible and Luddite.  

As for me, I plan to work with a growing movement toward global sustainability now.  It's a problem that doesn't get easier to solve.  Procrastinating compounds the challenge, and may make the solution impossible.  I meet and read about more and more people who feel the way I do.  There is increasing social pressure and opportunity to not kick the can down the road to the next generation. The situation is dire, but the tide is turning toward understanding that we need to act.

Here are few encouraging pieces of news that make me feel the tide is turning.  They are encouraging because they force the conclusion that action is required and that we are increasingly committing to action:

- NASA Scientist, Jim Hansen, has completed a study showing that climate change is the cause of increases in extreme weather.  http://www.cnn.com/2012/08/05/us/climate-change/index.html?hpt=hp_t3

- Outspoken climate change skeptic, Richard Muller at University of Berkley, has declared himself converted, indicating climate change is settled science that deserves government action.   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QqPuKxXUCPY

- The US Federal Appeals Court confirms the Environmental Protection Agency has authority and responsibility to regulate carbon emissions http://www.nytimes.com/2012/06/27/science/earth/epa-emissions-rules-backed-by-court.html

Other encouragement is more subtle:

- The issue of subsidies to the oil and gas industry is now part of the political conversation leading up to  elections in November.  (e.g., television advertisements and platform statements by candidate for U.S. Senate Elizabeth Warren)

- Images of wind turbines have become common in advertising indicating an acknowledgement that the public responds favorably to green-minded companies 

- Conservation efforts, such as mandated fuel efficiency improvements and bicycle infrastructure, are gain gaining mass acceptance.

- Lifestyle preferences are shifting toward denser housing that reduces carbon footprints (e.g., this Houston survey http://www.chron.com/news/houston-texas/article/Mass-transit-gains-momentum-in-latest-Houston-3500530.php )

There is much hard work and difficult change ahead, but with this type of news we can take it on knowing that the balance of power is shifting.  Reinforcements to the cause of sustainability are arriving continuously and more are on the way.