Untruths don't help
The MUT interest in the climate emergency is part of a healthy process of debate, as is also community scientism from some quarters. What is not useful are the repeated misconceptions peddled by climate sceptics until they become accepted orthodoxy.
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These include statements such as "CO2 is not a poison", so "it must be safe". The real issue is that CO2 is an important heat trapping gas and its increased levels over recent decades is an important factor in the rapid increase in average global temperatures, and hence more severe weather events.
Another favorite is that Australia contributes less than 2 per cent of global emissions, so anything we do does not make any material difference. The reality is that the vast majority of countries fall on or below the 2 per cent level, including Germany, France and the UK. Together however, these countries contribute over 40 per cent of total global emissions and form a key bloc in action to reduce overall global emissions.
Finally coal. We have our current PM waving pieces of coal around in parliament and muttering "do not be afraid". Health Minister Greg Hunt has told us that air pollution is responsible for the early death of over 3000 Australians every year. This is more than double our annual national road toll, yet the PM is apparently untroubled to take action against its primary cause, the burning of coal.
I am delighted the younger generation intends to play a role in the climate challenge.
B. Tompkinson, Little Forest
Hospital emergency
With the latest health horror story at Shoalhaven Hospital, it is hoped the Prime Minister and Premier saw the address to federal parliament by the new Member for Gilmore, Fiona Phillips. It has been over 10 years since the rot set in at Shoalhaven Hospital. This is the first time those watching federal parliament saw our new member expose the health problems of the Shoalhaven/South Coast with the hospital car park more important than hospital beds, long waiting times in casualty or to have surgery. On her last visit the Premier said people were flocking to live in the Shoalhaven but local S\state MPs are saying a shortage of specialists in the Shoalhaven is the problem but said nothing about the lack of beds.
The Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District hierarchy needs to be accountable as well.
W. Bourke, Sanctuary Point
Stop, look, plan
We write on behalf of Royal Life Saving Society - Australia and Surf Life Saving Australia to urge readers to take the greatest of care in, on and around water.
Data reveals 276 people drowned across Australia over the past year, a 10 per cent jump on the previous year. A significant number of these deaths happened in summer.
It is of great concern 101 people drowned in inland waterways and there were 122 coastal drowning deaths, including 71 on beaches.
In the past 12 months, 584 people have been hospitalised as a result of non-fatal drowning incidents. Some of them will end up with irreversible brain damage.
It is vital readers supervise children at all times around water. We urge everybody to learn swimming and essential lifesaving skills including first aid and CPR.
We urge people to swim at a patrolled beach between the red and yellow flags, and adopt a STOP, LOOK, PLAN approach to water safety.
We know risk taking behaviour - often involving alcohol and drugs - is having a clear impact on drowning rates. Poor swimming skills are also a factor.
It is vital to wear a lifejacket when boating, rock fishing and using watercraft.
Visit our websites to obtain more hands on tips and information, www.royallifesaving.com.au and www.sls.com.au .