Climate action will protect humanity

To the editor:

Discussion of environmental issues will not prevent the death of innocent lives. Humanity loses ground with each day of persisting climate inaction. This is felt both figuratively in the form of dwindling political options, and physically by way of rising sea levels. I refuse to let naivete and greed be the dagger that strikes the heart of the world I live in and care for.

I only hope that my neighbors and friends recognize the threat that takes over 150,000 lives annually (figures published by the World Health Organization). Coastal regions of the U.S. already suffer from water shortages and increased susceptibility to tropical storms. Environmental refugees exist today at increasing rates.

I act to solve environment issues not because of my connection to nature, or for the sake of hugging trees. I stand to protect the fate of humanity. I stand to protect our shared legacy that is taught in history classes across the globe.

Have you no sympathy for the accomplishments of civilizations past? Do you accept the identity of the generation that failed? Personal climate action does not require - perhaps it is preferred - to include drastic lifestyle changes. Impacts can be achieved by simply recycling whenever possible; by reusing and repurposing materials, by refraining to purchase the newest fashion and reducing your impact. Reality does not conform to humanity's preferences. Where, in a time of pain and struggle, is comfort and luxury appropriate? Please join me in the fight to quite literally save the world.

Jared Gillmore

Iowa City