An
“inconvenient truth” told in Toronto
Al Gore brings his slide show to U of T
By
Waterloo-Wellington MPP Ted Arnott
Former
U.S. Vice-President and Eco-superstar Al Gore brought
his global warming presentation to Toronto on February
21st, 2007. His dire warnings about the future because
of worldwide climate change capped a day-long environmental
symposium at the University of Toronto, which I was
glad to have the chance to attend.
“I
am Al Gore, and I used to be the next President of the
United States,” he began, just as he does in his documentary
film An Inconvenient Truth. What followed was a presentation
very similar to the movie, but updated, and it included
many Canadian references.
Calling
it a “climate crisis,” Mr. Gore spoke for more than
two straight hours about what he called the danger and
opportunity represented by global warming. He was at
turns amusing and serious, self deprecating and boastful.
It was a masterful performance by a seasoned political
veteran, making a strong case for action.
Entitled
Moving Canada Towards Sustainability – A Forum to Discuss
Global Environmental Issues, the symposium was organized
by the University of Toronto’s Centre for Environment.
It involved lectures by some of the leading scientists
and scholars at the University in the areas of physics,
biology, geography, chemistry, philosophy, engineering,
and law.
While
there were many controversial opinions expressed during
the course of the day, the overall message was clear.
The Earth is warming, climate change is a fact, and
humankind must adapt and attempt to minimize the ecological
impacts of our activities. The problem will not be solved
overnight, and our efforts will need to be sustained
throughout the 21st Century. The vast majority of scientists
who have studied climate change believe that the burning
of fossil fuels and the resultant release of carbon
dioxide and other greenhouse gases is a significant
contributing factor to global warming. Many believe
that we must dramatically reduce these greenhouse gas
emissions or we will imperil future generations.
Governments
must lead, but Government can’t do it all. I believe
that we must all become serious about energy conservation
and energy efficiency. This is something we can all
begin immediately. Al Gore’s message is quite simple.
We can replace our old light bulbs and appliances with
energy efficient ones. We can install clock thermostats
for heating and cooling in our homes. We can ensure
that our insulation is keeping the heat in. We can recycle.
When buying a new car we can look for fuel efficiency.
We should walk when we can and only drive when we must.
We should use public transit when it’s available. We
should support renewable energy and green energy. We
should plant trees. We should support ethanol and alternative
fuels. In other words, each of us as individuals are
empowered to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by making
relatively modest changes to our lifestyles.
We
all need to contribute towards environmental sustainability,
and not be responsible for further environmental degradation.
As the MPP for Waterloo-Wellington, I have had an opportunity
to speak about these issues in the Ontario Legislature
and voice the concerns of my constituents. Last October,
in a speech to the Legislature, I acknowledged the need
for greater action to address climate change and global
warming. I am very interested in this issue, and appreciate
feedback from residents of Waterloo, Wellington and
the Town of Halton Hills. My email address is: ted_arnott@ontla.ola.org
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