Climate Inaction: Who does it and Why?

 

 I am a citizen of the planet earth.  Gifford’s piece (Gifford, Robert, “The Dragons of

In   action: Psychological Barriers That Limit Climate Change Mitigation and Adaption” Inquiry to Academic Writing: A text and Reader, 5^th Edition: page 686: Ebook) is about me but does it describe my view and my actions?  How much can I do?

2.       In Gifford’s piece he discusses 2 linked subjects.  Firstly, why climate change has not been universally accepted and, secondly, why has positive action to reverse it has not been effectively applied.  In the table (para 5)  that he presents by way of summary, I think he touches on my view and the view of others I speak to regularly[1] very well.  Specifically, “Optimism bias”, “Uncertainty” “Perceived Behavioural Control/Self Efficacy” in the “Limited Cognition” bucket and “Technosalvation” (sic) in the “Ideologies” bucket.  In short, it is a planetary issue that requires global leadership/action to resolve and the scientists will find a way to deal with it if-and-when it becomes threatening.  These views are commonly held by a majority I speak to; as they buy electric cars, increase home insulation and the recycle their household waste.  These examples show the dichotomy between those aware of the seriousness of this issue and the boundaries the common (British) person puts around their effort to effect change.

3.       Gifford’s paper suggests that for change, real change, in dealing with climate change requires movement on all the psychological barriers to action and I support this.  It does not however place emphasis on the need for political leadership.  To this reader it is a self-help piece focused on the common man.  He says in the opening paragraph “but too few global citizens engaged in high-greenhouse-gas-emitting behaviour are engaged in enough mitigating behaviour to stem the increasing flow of greenhouse gases”.  Only governments however can provide the supply chains, the investment, priorities, co-ordination, direction and laws to bring about the huge changes needed to pull back from the brink of runaway climate change.  I guess I am one of those at fault to think it requires planetary action by governments.  I, like most of us, spend my life working, loving, looking after my family and trying to put a smile on my face whilst doing these massive and socially responsible things – that takes up most of my day.  Politicians spend most of there day leading a country and using its assets wisely.  They must lead and take responsibility for climate change and reversing it.  After all they have the power and the platform to effect global change.  Target the governments of the world.  It will have more impact on climate.

 

S P RATTLEY

 

Citations:

Gifford, Robert, “The Dragons of Inaction: Psychological Barriers That Limit Climate Change Mitigation and Adaption” Inquiry to Academic Writing: A text and Reader, 5^th Edition: page 686: Ebook

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[1] My formal residence is the UK and these remarks refer to those known to me in that country – not the USA.