Global warming is a very real danger

I read with interest the latest letter to the editor that adopts the climate change denial school of thought. I recognize that it’s hard to see global warming when our breath outdoors is condensing before our eyes, but there is no doubt that global temperatures are rising.

From the collapsing ice sheets in Antarctica to the drowning polar bears in the Arctic, from the drought in Africa to the widespread pine beetle kills across the Western forests, our Earth is witnessing the effects of global warming.

I’m almost envious of those people who are so certain that the experts are wrong. (The doubters are supported in their beliefs by industry-backed think tanks, whose job is to sow the seeds of doubt.) It would be much easier to continue with business as usual and not concern myself with how my habits are contributing to the problem.

But that approach is not in anyone’s best interest.

I have a modest dream for my daughter; that she can grow up to live in a place where water is plentiful, forests are verdant and healthy, winters are cold, wildlife is plentiful – like North Idaho is now. That’s why I choose to hedge my bets and go with the overwhelming scientific consensus on climate change.

By reducing our reliance on fossil fuels and investing in new green energy, we have a great opportunity to usher in a new energy economy, create energy security for our nation and protect our quality of life.

SUSAN DRUMHELLER

Sandpoint