Global warming is real

Professor Mel Zimmerman of Lycoming College is headlined in the Dec. 31 Sun-Gazette, apparently saying we ought to wait before making definite conclusions, or taking action on the question of global warming. I would not presume to challenge Professor Zimmerman’s expertise in his own field. However, the Sun-Gazette ought to have made clear that his interpretation is very much a minority opinion among biologists, climate scientists and geologists.

The overwhelming majority of experts in environmental sciences believe that there is enough information already available to justify concluding that global warming is real, that it is caused mostly by human activity, and that the threat of damage to our planet and the lives of all who live on it, must be taken very seriously.

Few scientific ideas, including those that Professor Zimmerman works with and teaches every day, are proven beyond all possible doubt. Yet this does not stop us from using them, and teachers from teaching them. In the case of global warming, the stakes are very high. Most experts who have studied the problem believe we are on the verge of doing irreparable damage to our environment—indeed, that the damage already may have been done.

There is a point at which waiting for the last possible bit of proof becomes “fiddling while Rome burns.” Global warming is real, according to the great majority of scientists. It is happening now. It is already beginning to affect our climate and the global economy, is threatening the survival of many different species, and is a serious threat to all humankind. If we do not take the threat seriously, we, our children, and our children’s children, will pay for our mistake.

Arno Vosk MD

Williamsport

Submitted by Virtual Newsroom