To the editor:

I have been reading a NT Times best seller, “Drawdown; the Most Comprehensive Plan Ever Proposed to Reverse Global Warming.” It is a concise and thorough analysis of the quantitative impacts of 80 solutions in areas such as energy, food, transportation, city planning and land use. What I am impressed with is the commitment and effort many countries have already made to reverse global warming. I am also highly impressed with the overall economic feasibility of these measures and the long term economic savings renewable energy and other measures will provide, especially in light of the cost of dealing with the consequences of climate change.

The United States lags far behind much of the world in implementing solutions to reverse the man-made causes of global warming. In the long run this inaction will likely cost the U.S. economically as we continue to forfeit the lead in technology and innovation to other countries. Climate change is a serious threat to life as we know it on earth. We can learn more about what action can be taken now. April 22 will be the 39th observance of Earth Day, and two important local events will bookend the week.

“The Age of Consequences,” a documentary feature that investigates how, in the words of the U.S. Department of Defense, “climate change will contribute to food and water scarcity, will increase the spread of disease, and may spur or exacerbate mass migration.” The film will be shown at 7 p.m. Monday, April 22 at the John Black Room of the Saranac Laboratory Museum, 89 Church St. in Saranac Lake, and is open to all. There is a suggested donation of $10, with students admitted free.

On Sunday, April 28, a Climate Change Symposium will focus on solutions at the individual, local, state and federal level. It will be held at the Presbyterian Church in Saranac Lake from 1 to 4:30 p.m. and feature speakers from government, science and community action groups. The event is free and refreshments will be served.

Knowledge brings action, and action brings hope. We know how to do this; we need the will to act.

Peggy Wiltberger

Saranac Lake