Re: Climate not following predictions, Oct. 30.
In response to Keith Sketchley’s letter, I am a person of life-long learning and when presented with an opportunity to expand my understanding of how the world works, will do so pro-actively to expand my knowledge. My hope is Mr. Sketchley may also do the same by reading President Obama’s Executive Order released Nov. 1, 2013, to prepare the United States for the impacts of climate change. This executive order — available on the White House website — in part reads:
“The impacts of climate change — including an increase in prolonged periods of excessively high temperatures, more heavy downpours, an increase in wildfires, more severe droughts, permafrost thawing, ocean acidification, and sea-level rise — are already affecting communities, natural resources, ecosystems, economies and public health across the Nation. These impacts are often most significant for communities that already face economic or health-related challenges and for species and habitats that are already facing other pressures. Managing these risks requires deliberate preparation, close cooperation, and coordinated planning by [governments and stakeholders]… to improve climate preparedness and resilience; help safeguard our economy, infrastructure, environment, and natural resources; and provide for the continuity of executive department and agency operations, services and programs.”
Now I suppose Mr. Sketchley may write to the head of one of the world’s largest superpowers to inform him that climate change isn’t real and that fossil fuel emissions are not impacting them, but I have a feeling President Obama has many scientific experts who have advised the president of the need for real, proactive action.
It is my continued hope our community members will further inform themselves of the serious issue of climate change and its impacts to current and future generations.
Deborah Rasnick
Brentwood Bay