Former Vice President Al Gore provides a heartfelt, informative, and overall convincing portrayal of what goes on behind the scenes of the fight against climate change in his documentary entitled “An Inconvenient Sequel.” Given today’s current political situation, I believe that the topics discussed in this film are more relevant now than ever before. As biology majors at WPUNJ, this film offers not only insight into environmental issues which will affect us all, but also shows that the need for scientists in this field is growing exponentially.
The Impact of Political Decisions on Climate Action
Towards the beginning of the documentary, Mr. Gore relived his hotly contested loss of the 2000 presidential election, emphasizing how his views on climate change affected the Senate’s ruling about the recount in Florida, costing him the election. This was an important point to make because it shows how policymakers can be ‘bullied’ into not addressing environmental issues as unapologetically as they would like for fear of being blacklisted in the political arena. The intertwining of politics and environmental policy has long been a barrier to significant progress in climate action, and Gore’s experience exemplifies the challenges faced by those who prioritize environmental issues over economic interests.
The Role of Big Money in Politics
The film delves into the influence of large industries on political decisions, highlighting how these industries often sway politicians to prioritize business interests over environmental sustainability. Mr. Gore said, “Big money has influence, and our democracy has been hacked.” This sentiment is crucial to understanding the hurdles environmentalists face. It often seems as though the country is being run in the best interests of the super-rich industry owners, creating an environment that is exceedingly stacked against homegrown environmentalists and those advocating for sustainable policies.
Visualizing the Effects of Climate Change
One of the most striking parts of the film was seeing the impacts of warmer temperatures on our glaciers and the strength of storms that are formed over these warmer waters. Mr. Gore went to Miami, FL to show the impact that sea level change is having on the downtown area by wading in knee-deep water in the middle of a busy avenue. Being from Hialeah, the next big town over from Miami, I am all too aware of this situation. The mayor of Miami expressed his frustration with the governor, who does not believe in climate change, even though there is three feet of water where there previously had never been. This exemplifies how politicians overlook evident environmental changes, dismissing them as ‘fake news.’
Energy Disparities Between Nations
The film also delves into the energy disparities between developed nations, such as the United States, and developing nations, such as India. Part of the film documented the negotiations on behalf of India to speed up their transition to renewable energy to not only decrease their carbon dioxide emissions but also improve their overall quality of life and decrease poverty. This segment was particularly enlightening as it provided a behind-the-scenes look at the massive solar deal with India, showcasing the intricate work involved in such international agreements. According to the film, the earth receives more solar energy in a day than would be needed to power the whole world in a year, making it logical for densely populated countries to harness this form of natural capital.
The Call to Action
Overall, this film was thought-provoking and informative. I recommend everyone, not just those who are interested in the field of environmental studies, to watch this film and be educated in the dangers of climate change. Facts as well as opinions were presented in a clear and concise manner. As the future scientists of the world, it is our duty to be aware of the major threats posed to our home so we can make educated decisions going forward about how we deal with climate change. There is no alternative planet to go to when we cause irrevocable damage to this one, and for that reason, it is important to understand the gravity of the situation in which we currently find ourselves, something which this film illustrates seamlessly.
The Science Behind Climate Change
Climate change, as discussed in the film, is rooted in the science of greenhouse gases and their effect on the earth’s atmosphere. The greenhouse effect, a natural process that warms the Earth’s surface, is exacerbated by human activities that increase the concentration of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide. These gases trap heat in the atmosphere, leading to global warming. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) provides comprehensive reports that outline the evidence for human-induced climate change, demonstrating the correlation between increased greenhouse gas emissions and rising global temperatures.
Economic and Social Implications
The economic and social implications of climate change are vast and multifaceted. Economically, climate change impacts industries ranging from agriculture to tourism, causing billions of dollars in damages due to extreme weather events, sea-level rise, and changing precipitation patterns. Socially, vulnerable populations, particularly in developing countries, face heightened risks as they are often less equipped to adapt to environmental changes. Climate-induced migration, food security issues, and health impacts are among the critical challenges that need addressing. Gore’s documentary highlights these aspects, urging for a holistic approach to climate action that encompasses economic, social, and environmental dimensions.
Renewable Energy as a Solution
Renewable energy emerges as a pivotal solution in the fight against climate change. Transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydroelectric power can significantly reduce carbon emissions. Gore’s emphasis on solar energy’s potential is supported by numerous studies showing its feasibility and benefits. The Renewable Energy Policy Network for the 21st Century (REN21) reports continuous growth in renewable energy capacity worldwide, indicating a positive shift towards sustainable energy solutions. However, political will and investment are crucial to accelerate this transition and achieve global climate goals.
The Role of Education and Advocacy
Education and advocacy play vital roles in combating climate change. Raising awareness about the scientific basis and impacts of climate change can empower individuals and communities to take action. Environmental education initiatives, such as those promoted by the National Wildlife Federation, aim to integrate climate literacy into school curricula, fostering a generation of informed and proactive citizens. Advocacy, on the other hand, involves influencing policy and public opinion through campaigns, demonstrations, and lobbying efforts. Gore’s documentary itself serves as an advocacy tool, aiming to inspire and mobilize viewers to demand stronger climate policies from their leaders.
Conclusion
“An Inconvenient Sequel” is more than just a documentary; it is a call to action against one of the most pressing issues of our time. Al Gore’s passionate presentation underscores the urgency of addressing climate change and the need for collective action. As future scientists and informed citizens, it is our responsibility to understand the science, recognize the economic and social implications, and advocate for sustainable solutions. By doing so, we can contribute to a global effort to mitigate climate change and protect our planet for future generations.