Editor:
We all lament the effects of climate change, such as watering restrictions, rising temperatures, limitations on cutting down trees on private property, forest fires etc. And although we do feel the effects here in South Delta, they are nothing compared to what is happening in other areas of the world, where people are dying from natural catastrophes that are a direct result of our warming climate.
While all of us are trying by recycling paper and plastic, and putting out our compostable materials for pickup, we remain unaware of so many other things we do that cause harm.
For instance, a recent UN Food and Agriculture Organization report concluded that livestock production is responsible for 18 per cent of the world’s warming emissions. Even a small reduction in meat consumption (especially red meat) can significantly lower one’s personal contribution (not to mention, improve our health.)
Consider this; a July 6 article in the Globe and Mail cited pollution by ships dumping toxic wastewater full of acids, heavy metals and carcinogens into the ocean – 88 million tonnes along the B.C. coast in 2022 alone. Fuel scrubbers, which remove toxins from engine exhaust, are cleaned with sea water, which is then dumped back into the ocean. Forty-two per cent comes from cruise ships.
Of course, we’re all aware of the effects of air travel, gas-fueled vehicles versus electric, using natural gas and wood fuel and the unregulated and toxic recycling of our discarded technology in third-world countries.
We are blessed here on the coast with a plethora of choices. Let’s make those choices thoughtfully and with awareness of the effect they have on others less fortunate and on our children’s and grandchildren’s very future.
Debra Probert
