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Iowa scientists say smaller steps can ease climate change woes
Nearly 200 scientists sign this year's Iowa Climate Statement
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Iowans can calm their angst about the changing climate by controlling what they can: reducing their carbon emissions with more-efficient appliances, driving less and eating more vegetables, among others.
That is this year's message from 186 college and university scientists in Iowa who signed the Iowa Climate Statement. The annual letter was first released in 2011 — and signed by 31 scientists — and implored "that climate change is real."
There's less need for that level of convincing now. A survey this year by Yale University and George Mason University showed that 70 percent of American adults believe global warming is happening. About 59 percent said it has mostly been caused by people.
Much of the change is attributed to greenhouse gas emissions from burning coal and oil-based fuels.
"We've recently had 15 consecutive months of record-setting global temperatures, and as a result 2024 is on track to be the warmest year yet for global average temperature," William Gutowski, a longtime professor of meteorology at Iowa State University, said Tuesday in a press conference about the statement.
Average temperatures in Iowa have risen by more than a degree in the past century, and the rate of warming has accelerated. Severe storms have become more severe, and droughts more enduring.
Past climate statements in recent years have pushed solar energy adoption and strengthening the state's electric grid, tree planting, energy-efficient building, and reduced emissions from agriculture.
This year, the group turned its focus to worries about future changes and the effects of those worries on mental health and behavior. The scientists cited a recent survey of 16- to 25-year-olds that said 84 percent of them are moderately or extremely worried about climate change. More than 60 percent reported sadness, fear and anxiety because of it.
"Many students question what climate change will mean to their future," said Peter Thorne, a University of Iowa professor who teaches hundreds of students each year. "They ask questions: Should they consider raising a family in an unsustainable world? What kind of world will those children inherit?"
The new climate statement said large-scale efforts by governments and international groups are important to curb emissions, but that people can counteract their disillusionment with the sluggishness of that progress by:
- Taking advantage of federal tax incentives to upgrade to energy-efficient appliances, switch to an all-electric vehicle, install solar power for their homes and better insulate them.
- Riding a bike or walking instead of driving, which can "produce significant physical and mental health benefits." Also by prioritizing vegetables for meals.
- Working with others nearby on projects that benefit the environment.
"No single person can tackle the enormity of climate change," said David Courard-Hauri, a professor of environmental science and sustainability at Drake University. "People within your community can help you to achieve much bigger goals."
Comments: (319) 368-8541; jared.strong@thegazette.com
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