Respecting Climate Change Opinions

The views of Canadians on more and more topics, including climate change, have become more and more polarized. We’re all convinced we’re right. Often, we also believe the other guy is absolutely wrong and that there’s little or no gray between the opposing positions. In this situation, finding a consensus is extremely difficult.

Generally, I think we need to be more respectful of the opinion of others. However, I draw the line when an opinion or suggested action violates a law or important principle.

Violate the laws of physics

For example, some environmentalists claim that renewables-based energy production will have little or no impact on the land. In fact, renewables-based energy generation requires about 100 to 1000 times as much land as the same amount of fossil fuel-based energy generation.

Violate the laws of chemistry

For example, many environmentalists like to beat up oil & gas producers rather than oil & gas consumers over climate change. In fact, producers create about 20% of the GHGs while consumers create 80% of the GHGs from a given volume of fossil fuel.

Violate the laws of economics

For example, some environmentalists claim that the transition from fossil fuel-based energy consumption to renewables-based energy consumption can be easily accomplished. In fact, the IEA recently noted that 30 years ago 81 percent of the world’s energy mix was fossil fuel based. Today, after $4 trillion in renewable investment, it remains at 81 percent.

Violate protecting the safety of individuals

For example, some protesters have physically challenged the efforts of the police to patiently enforce legal court injunctions. This action has placed the safety of police officers, other protesters and the general public at risk.

Violate protecting private property

For example, some protesters have trespassed private property and then vandalized energy production equipment.

If we want to seriously address climate change, we must reduce per capita energy consumption. The first short-term response to climate change is mostly achieved by driving less and using transit more. The second response is to improve energy efficiency in businesses and households. The third response is for those who can use renewable energy to actually do so.