Climate Change Basics (and let’s not despair!) Jennifer Burnham, Ph.D. Associate Professor and Geography Dept. Chair Augustana College

QCA 80° 70° 60°

What do we know about climate change and why do we care? The climate is changing NOW. Everywhere and everyone is (and will be) affected. WE are responsible for this climatic change – not just Mother Nature. It may be scary and hard to fathom, but climate change is happening. WE can be the instruments of change.

What does climate change mean? It does NOT mean that everywhere on the planet it is getting warmer and drier. Problems with predictability and consistency of weather patterns. IPCC, 2007

What does climate change mean? OK, but I like the heat…what’s the big deal? http://blogs.agu.org/wildwildscience/files/2016/01/Screen-Shot-2015-11-08-at-12.47.00-AM.png

Human health Freshwater availability Food and agriculture

Why is it happening? How do we know? Increased CO2 = increased temperatures

It’s been warm before…even warmer than today….so what’s the big deal?

How can the church play a role in preparing for a changing climate? Step 1: Don’t panic. Don’t despair Step 2: Embrace the science and the urgency Step 3: Act!

Step 1: Don’t despair This does not mean you don’t have to do step 3 because others are stepping up! https://cleantechnica.com/2014/02/04/current-cost-solar-panels/ https://cleantechnica.com/2017/03/31/6-charts-show-trump-wont-stop-renewable-energy-revolution-anytime-soon/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=facebook

Step 2: Learn the science Recognize the urgency You showed up today!! https://www.skepticalscience.com/exxon-mobi-ceo-denies-climate-threat.html

This step will look different for everyone and every congregation. Act! Act! Act! This step will look different for everyone and every congregation. Every step (no matter how small) is important. Think about resilience http://www.campaigncc.org/TimetoActMeeting10

“Low hanging fruit” actions What you are already doing across the Synod Changing lightbulbs to LEDs Conducting building energy audits Changing thermostat set points Occupancy light sensors Recycling and composting Green cleaning products Involving youth Lobbying to Congress

Ok, I’ve done the “easy” stuff… now what? 100% electric car

--Talk to others --Be inspired by others --Learn from others --Share resources

Do my small changes make a difference? YES! www.energystar.gov Union of Concerned Scientists

Questions?