areas, contribute little, and suffer the most from a changing climate. While China now emits more carbon dioxide than any other nation, the United States with less than one- third the Chinese population is still responsible for the largest total contribution to global warming and to changing the climate. Local Climate Injustice occurs locally in all parts of the world. It is the "luxury emissions" of the ultra rich in all countries that cause the greatest change in climate. In the Southeastern United States, it is the poorest communities - often communities of color- that contribute the least to heating the climate, but they suffer the most severe harm from it. Intensified hurricanes, tornadoes and downpours cause severe damage to their homes and disrupt their lives. The loss of forests from over- harvesting increases flooding and the severe air pollution from the processing of wood into pellets to fuel electric power in far away affluent England adds an additional burden. Within the United States, the emissions from the lowest half of incomes are consistent with meeting the goal of keeping global temperature rise in check! We are no longer suffering from "Natural Disasters" caused by forces beyond our control. We can identify those individuals and corporations most responsible and hold them accountable. This is Not Just Unfair! It is Unjust!" As a society, we must work together to build Climate Justice! 56
William Moomaw
Bill Moomaw is Professor Emeritus at Tufts University and a Visiting Scientist at Woodwell Climate Research Center in Massachusetts. He has been a Climate Scientist for 35 years, working to find just solutions for addressing climate change through Natural Climate Solutions and equitable use of sustainable and affordable technology.
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