Global warming & climate change
Dr. Paul Martiquet, MHO Coast Garibaldi Region June 18, 2001


We all know of the persistent debate over global warming; there are proponents on every side of the issue. Organizations such as the David Suzuki Foundation and others strive to educate and influence governments one way, while others work equally hard to discount them. Whichever side you believe most, it is clear that there is a relationship between our climate and our health. We know more today than we ever have; we also know that climate change does have an impact on us.
It is encouraging to know that even a conservative publication such as The Economist agrees that global warming is a concern. In discussing the rejection of the Kyoto Accord by U.S. President George Bush, their 7 April 2001 issue states that “contrary to what Mr Bush and some advisers have said in recent days, a firm scientific consensus now holds that man-made global warming is a problem which must be addressed.”

But what is climate change? How does it affect us?

In short, it is the ongoing change in our weather resulting from global warming and the increased variability of our weather. Global warming occurs, at least in part, from increased concentrations of carbon dioxide and other “greenhouse gases” caused by the burning of carbon-containing fuels. Other causes include persistent deforestation, changes in solar radiation and other natural processes such as volcanic eruptions.

The effects of these changes tend to focus on the very young and the old who are more sensitive to extremes in air quality and temperatures. Urban populations also must deal with poor air quality, as do those living in the same or neighbouring airsheds… including the Sunshine Coast and Sea-to-Sky areas, for example.

The solutions to this problem are both evident, and not. At its most simple, the answer is to reduce levels greenhouse gasses and burn less fossil and bio-fuels. But every decision we take has complex implications. Balancing competing goals and needs is always a challenge. Some of the “solutions” often presented include using a “carrot-and-stick” approach with industries, companies and communities. Tax advantages and subsidies can encourage responsible behaviours; strong legislation and stiff penalties for abusers provide additional incentive.

Other elements in a sound strategy to deal with global warming include:

• Developing cross-border treaties with the U.S. to reduce the creation of air particulates
• Including clean air on national ,provincial, and local political agendas
• Educating people to increase their awareness of risks and preventive actions
• Encouraging public transit systems and promoting its use at all levels
• Supporting initiatives to produce efficient and alternative-energy vehicles
Although we are faced with serious health implications from global warming, it is somewhat encouraging to remember that even thirty years ago, any level of environmental concern was considered radical. Today, we are far more aware of the implications of global warming, and the steps we must take to reduce it.

The Canadian Association of Retired Persons (carp) eloquently summarized the situation in a special report following its National Forum on the Environment: “[We have a responsibility] not only to ensure the quality of our air and water, but also to hand over a clean planet to our children and grandchildren.”


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Call-out: “[We have a responsibility] not only to ensure the quality of our air and water, but also to hand over a clean planet to our children and grandchildren.”

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