A Neo Romantic's view of climate change
How can we so carelessly destroy that which allows us to live? Nature is the universe’s greatest gift to humankind, yet we are so caught up in our material desires that we fail to appreciate and care for the lovely environment around us. Though the unusually warm weather makes for gloriously sunny days to enjoy the outdoors, my soul aches as I observe the majestic mountains’ snow crowns slowly disappear year by year. The people who can help save our environment have unfortunately let power go to their heads. Right-wing politicians deny climate change from the comfort of their air-conditioned homes and gas-guzzling luxury cars. They are unwilling to face the reality of how humanity is destroying the Earth, and refuse to spend money on protecting the environment. Don’t they understand that we must care for our planet if we want to continue calling it our home? Scientists, while they at least agree climate change is real, have proposed solutions that involve further tampering with the environment. I’m a little wary of their suggested geoengineering tactics. Haven’t humans caused enough harm already? I’m not convinced that we can save nature by adding more unnatural things into the world. For example: solar radiation management through the use of reflective aerosols? I can’t possibly see how jetting thousands of tons of manmade chemicals into the atmosphere would be a good idea. I think the solution to climate change is a shift in perspective and lifestyle. Bike or take the bus instead of driving your car. Save energy by turning off your heating and lights when you’re not using them. Immerse yourself in the outdoors and learn to appreciate the planet we call our home. Once you experience the true beauty of nature, perhaps you will be more inclined to reduce your carbon footprint.