It’s been nearly five weeks since Tom Rand spoke about climate disruption to an impressive full house at the Capitol Theatre, and his talk is still having a ripple effect.
He spoke for just under an hour straight, taking us through how we got so stuck, how to get unstuck, and how to navigate through the economics and mechanics of transitioning to clean, renewable energy. It is economically feasible — it will cost about a coffee and doughnut per person per week.
Then Tom went on to say OK, if we want to subsidize developing nations for a time, make that a coffee and five doughnuts per person per week. He frames the problem and the solution as insurance — we buy insurance for our homes and cars, why not for our future wellbeing?
Because if we don’t act now, droughts, floods, wildfires, and raging weather events will threaten our economies, our safety and our food security. The science is in, and there is no doubt. What we’ve seen so far, in Tom Rand’s words “is just the appetizer.”
The lost tourism this last winter alone in our own neighbourhood ought to be a pretty good wake-up call.
Since Tom Rand’s talk, I’ve been inspired to act in the only way there is to make a transition to clean energy: we must vote for it. So I’ve joined Citizens’ Climate Lobby, and begun writing letters to the editor and to politicians. I’ve researched party platforms and learned that the only party that supports carbon tax and dividend at this time is the Green Party.
I’ve talked with smart, knowledgeable people about Elizabeth May, and her ability to run the country — the consensus is that she would do a stellar job.
I have been apolitical all my life, trusting that our governments would look after running things in our best interests. Tom Rand’s talk changed that for me — I now realize that we have to step up and demand a transition to clean energy, and I now believe that carbon tax and dividend is the most efficient solution.
An old adage comes to mind: “if you’re not part of the solution, you’re part of the problem.” I hope we can all link arms and become part of the solution.
Barbara Bergen, Nelson
