Thesis
Increased urbanization and mass migrations over the last century are key to
understanding human factors in climate change; these are best understood by a
careful reading of history and geography in your community. Regions of the
Earth that are successfully addressing environmental problems should assist
other communities, regardless of their location, set an example and provide
knowledge and expertise.
Geography as
defined by Halford Mackinder, bridges
the gap between arts and science; it connects history and culture with the
environment. Man and not nature initiates activities but nature in large
measure controls -Fernand Braudel.
Those working in harmony with environmental influences will triumph over those
who strive against them - WH Parker. Human
nature is motivated by fear, self interest and honor – Thucydides.
Sustainable Communities are created by addressing resource protection, climate change, air and
water quality and availability, human health and well-being.
My Community the Washington DC, Potomac River and Middle Atlantic Region of the United
States is characterized by a highly educated and knowledgeable citizenry that is
very sensitive to environmental issues and is engaged locally and regionally.
Key Issues Affecting Climate Change
urbanization, traffic
gridlock, population increases, community migrations
agricultural runoffs from
rivers and tributaries into
farming in the outlying
Chesapeake region and urban area water quality issues have led to bacteria in
the waters, resulting in swimming bans in the bay, rivers and the ocean.
budget limitations have led to reduced inspection of watersheds,
hence less maintenance and increases in storm water
failures allowing tens of thousands of pounds of nutrients to enter the
waterways.
education there is still a disconnect between the scientific
community and the public at large; climate issues are still not part of
mainstream thinking and daily life even in socially and economically
sophisticated communities.
Local Solutions to Climate Change Governments at all levels are engineering political solutions:
o
an agreement
between EPA and Agricultural Organizations to implement pollution reduction
programs aimed at restoring the Bay to health by 2025, and
o
local food
production and consumption, a plastic bag tax, green roofs, bike and car
sharing programs, light rail and other forms of public transport
Real success in mitigating climate change will be achieved when environmentally sound practices are adopted by a
majority of the local population; in democratic societies, this can be achieved
when small businesses and entrepreneurs – join government, nonprofit and
volunteer groups in this effort.
Issues are taken more
seriously when your lively hood depends on it. Hence, information, education
and training lead to sustainable wealth creation.
Global Solutions to Climate Change At the dawn of the 20th Century only 14
percent of the world’s population lived in cities; by 2025, 75 percent will be
in urban settings. There are already 468 cities with over a million in
population; 40 of these cities have more than 10 million residents.
These circumstances lead to
continued economic, social, security, environment and climate problems. Increasingly
there is a devolution from supranational and national to regional and local
institutions to tackle these issue.
The more fortunate
communities have an obligation to share their know-how, expertise and
experience in climate change; it is in their interest to do so.
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Local
Knowledge – Global Reach
