Where are our elected leaders? Earth Facing Imminent Environmental 'Tipping Point'

[Karmadillo]

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/06/07-3

Published on Thursday, June 7, 2012 by Common Dreams
Earth Facing Imminent Environmental 'Tipping Point': Report
Biosphere reaching an environmental 'state shift', says scientists
- Common Dreams staff

Humankind is facing an imminent threat of extinction, according to new research released on Wednesday by the science journal Nature. The report Approaching a state shift in Earth’s biosphere reveals that our planet's biosphere is steadily approaching a 'tipping point', meaning all ecosystems are nearing sudden and irreversible change that will not be conducive to human life.

"We have reason to believe the change may be abrupt and surprising," said co-researcher Arne Mooers, a professor of biodiversity at Simon Fraser University in Canada's British Columbia. (Photo: Image Science & Analysis Laboratory , NASA Johnson Space Center) The authors describe what they see as a fast paced 'state shift' once the tipping point is reached, which contrasts with the mainstream view that environmental change will take centuries. "It's a question of whether it is going to be manageable change or abrupt change. And we have reason to believe the change may be abrupt and surprising," said co-researcher Arne Mooers, a professor of biodiversity at Simon Fraser University in Canada's British Columbia.

"The data suggests that there will be a reduction in biodiversity and severe impacts on much of what we depend on to sustain our quality of life, including, for example, fisheries, agriculture, forest products and clean water. This could happen within just a few generations," stated lead author Anthony Barnosky, a professor of integrative biology at the University of California in Berkeley.

"My colleagues who study climate-induced changes through the Earth's history are more than pretty worried," he said in a press release. "In fact, some are terrified," said co-researcher Arne Mooers, a professor of biodiversity at Simon Fraser University in Canada's British Columbia.

The report, written by 22 scientists from three continents ahead of this year's Rio+20 summit, claims that the 'state shift' is likely; however, humans may have a small window to curb over-consumption, over-population growth and environmental destruction, with drastic efforts to change the way we live on planet earth through international cooperation.

more...

[rustydog]

1. Aren't you paying attention you fool! They have to ban abortions!!!

Don't you realize Obama is coming for your guns? he is a friggin muslim, remember?

Get with it man, where have you been. Global catastrophies are gobbledygook lies anyway, just ask Rush.

[jpbollma]

2. Well, if we could

just get rid of ACORN and Planned Parenthood, the Earth will fix itself. I really have absolutely no confidence that our elected officials will do anything about this issue. They can't even pass a transportation bill.

[thecrow]

3. I remember when "climate change" was first being used as a term

and the Pentagon actually did studies on it and released a report that said it could occur in a matter of months.
Months.
Does anybody else remember this??

And now we're at the tipping point?

[cali]

4. frankly, I don't see what politicians can do about this.

what do you think they can do?

[pintobean]

5. Limit carbonated beverages to 16 fl. oz.

[Agony]

6. lead

like leaders are supposed to do

[cali]

9. want to be just a bit more specific?

[Karmadillo]

10. Well,

they could do this:

http://www.democraticunderground.com/1002783573

How A Tiny Central American Country Is Getting Richer And Saving The Environment

or this:

http://www.earth-policy.org/images/uploads/book_files/pb4book.pdf

PLAN B 4.0
Mobilizing to Save Civilization
EARTH POLICY INSTITUTE
NEW YORK

[Skidmore]

7. They are raking in all the wealth they can get before

the earth descends into chaos.

[thecrow]

12. I have often wondered if that's what's happening..

but what good will it do them? What are they gonna do with it when even money can't save you?
Mix with the rest of us?

[HopeHoops]

8. Shit. It's flat too - don't fall off!

But remember, humans have ABSOLUTELY no impact on the environment.

[raouldukelives]

11. It's possible our politicians might be more inclined

to act in favor of corporations/Wall St. The very things turbocharging our consumption to new highs and creating this unpleasant future. Perhaps if a concerted effort was made and tens of thousands marched and demanded action. Demanded that something was undertaken to save the kitties & puppies & kids & fishes of tomorrow from this assured hell they would pass a bold piece of legislation that would be cheered and trumpeted the world over calling for a possible 20% reduction in greenhouse gasses by 2050.
At that point the only person that can be counted on to act in defense of the future of our worlds beauty is ourselves. We have to decide if supporting Wall St is more important than sustainable agriculture. If a slightly more comfortable retirement is more important than an ecosystem. I know for Progressives it's an easy choice but making others aware of it and having them agree is a hard battle.
It's really horribly sad and overwhelming if you think about it. People really could care less for anything that distracts them from the mindless sitcom that is our daily life. That calls into question the very foundation of their ideas of success and careers. I wouldn't want to go through it again.
"God keep me from being a worthy man according to the descriptions I see people giving of themselves in their own honor."