Al Gore Speaks Up
December 15, 2009
Al Gore’s address today was perhaps the most visible American event thus far. The former Vice President gave an impassioned speech about the moral obligation to combat climate change and the political will necessary to accomplish lofty goals. He began with an overview of the current climate change science and the well known implications of unmitigated emissions. After this introduction, his rhetoric turned more emotional. He began his discussion of the moral obligation to act by calling climate change deniers “reckless fools”.
While he understands that the required binding agreement will not be achieved at COP15, Al Gore stressed that this conference must be a turning point. He called on negotiators to set the foundation for next year, when COP16 in Mexico City will provide another opportunity to reach a binding treaty. In a demonstration of the urgency of climate change, he suggested that the next conference – tentatively scheduled for November or December, 2010 – be held instead in July. Similarly, he has requested that the US congress set April 22nd as the date of final action on American climate legislation. This date is significant because it will be the 40th anniversary of Earth Day.
Finally, Al Gore tackled three major global issues as integrated problems with an interrelated solution. He cited the security crisis, the economic crisis, and the climate crisis as incredibly complex and overwhelming issues when viewed individually. Together, however, they share a simple common thread – our reliance on fossil energy. By reducing this insatiable thirst for petroleum and other fossil fuels, we can take great strides towards reducing the looming threats of all three global issues.
According to Al Gore, the technology and regulation mechanisms exist to solve this energy crisis. The missing ingredient, he says, is political will. He is hopeful, though, emphasizing that we are capable of rising to the occasion despite the difficulties. Although we have not demonstrated the necessary bold political moves to address climate change, “political will is a renewable resource”. Let’s hope so.
~Jordan
