Episode 380 Can We Solve Global Warming in Time?
Mark Z. Jacobson, a Stanford professor, has developed a model showing how it is feasible for the world to shift to 100 percent clean, renewable energy. His model takes account of the emissions from fossil fuels, of course, but also other pollutants that affect public health. When you combine these effects, it is apparent that the transition to clean energy will be a lifesaver and a great saver of energy too. Jacobson opposes the investment in nuclear power, which is far from lacking its own carbon emissions, when you count the work involved in mining, transporting, processing, and hiding and guarding the ingredients. Moreover, nuclear is far more expensive and will take far too long to create additional plants. Jacobson criticizes the US new infrastructure bill as containing many flaws, most of the “pork barrel” features. The question that Metta raises is whether public opinion and political structures can change quickly enough to meet the timeline for restraining the world’s temperature in the time frame that has been accepted in COP meetings. Jacobson says that is is possible, and that 60 countries are on track to meet their pledges, but Metta continues to regard this as overly optimistic, and to argue that other methods are needed to give us additional time; these include cloud brightening and iron salt aerosols. This debate will. continue.
Panelist:
• Mark Z. Jacobson
Comments
To Post a Comment
Please wait a few seconds for the comments to load at the bottom of this page. Then read the ideas other people have shared and reply or add your own knowledge. The space for comments is in a pale font. It’s good to give your comment a title by selecting it and clicking the “B” (for “boldface”). And you can italicize passages with the “I”, indent, add hyperlinks (with the chain symbol) or even attach a photo or graphic from your hard drive by clicking the paperclip at the right side of the space. Have fun with it!
Head Office
- Box 248, Station P Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5S 2S7
- 1-416-789-2294
- project@peacemagazine.org
Dr Jacobson is another scientist who has likely been educated under the assumptions western science has built itself on and was also the foundation of my geoscience beliefs. My beliefs were shaken by Grade 3 students who I taught about rocks and minerals.
“Experts” really have to reflect on the assumptions western science holds as foundational. When I listen to youth and scholars such as Dr. Vandana Shiva, the complexity extends beyond human intelligence and enters into universal consciousness. This brings us to how intergenerational dialogue has to evolve to expand our consciousness beyond outdated assumptions. We are in a new era and our education system must reflect that.
I posted this comment on Episode 379 as an approach to expand human consciousness.
“This discussion points out the complexity of the our dilemma. I assume the presenters likely have been educated in the western education system. Unfortunately this antiquated learning environment is creating knowledge conformity in a time we need knowledge diversity. As Einstein stated: we cannot solve the problems with the same thinking that created them. In my career as a geoscientist, I taught Grade 3 classes about rocks and minerals. In my interaction with these young inquisitive minds they asked questions that made me review some of the assumptions my university education held as gospel.
Us “experts” have to review our basic assumptions and interacting with youth is such a powerful method to open our biased (if not indoctrinated) minds to other perspectives. To answer Metta’s question of what we can do towards the “Project to Save the World” is to become mentors to our youth. Consciousness has to expand and what better way than having intergenerational dialogue through our education system? After adding a Master degree in Educational Foundations (2014) to my Master degree in Earth Sciences (2004-focused on sustainable development), this approach seems to be a no brainer!
I am on a mission to convince our Prime Minister and the Provincial Education Ministers that the mainstream education system must adopt “project-based learning” as a better way to engage the societal consciousness to change the mindset of our economic/consumption driven society. Why do we shut our energetic children in unnatural environments so far removed from the natural world and community building processes, when it is their future our decisions affect? Research shows most children lose their genius abilities after a few years of schooling. What does this suggest to us “experts”?
My strategy is to start a petition for national educational reform and take it to all government levels to initiate the project-based learning educational approach. I would love feedback from the Project Save the World Community!”
With gratitude, I live on the traditional and unceded territory of the Yaqan Nukiy of the Ktunaxa Nation.
R. Don Peel, P.Geo., MSc., MEd., FEC (Hon.), FGC.
University of Alberta, East West Center Alumni, University of Hawai’i
Peace Education and Education for Sustainable Development Specialist
Peace Agent, Peace Revolution, World Peace Initiative
United Nations Association, Hawai’i Chapter
Creston Climate Action Society
Mobile (587) 597-3469
I wholeheartedly agree that getting to youngsters at an early age is key to changing the way we do things to the benefit of all concerned.
As elders, we have an important role to play as educators, technologists,
and health care advocates.
Change must happen,eg thorium use,quickly.We have no time to dither. Bja