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Posted on Fri, 02/3/2012 - 11:10 AM by
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Climate deniers can't get their stories straight. They'll say the world is warming, but it's not due to human activity. Then they'll say the world is cooling. Or rather, it was warming but now it's cooling, so don't worry. Meanwhile, scientists continue to use ... science! to explain our planet's climate. For example, this week a study was released that sheds light on the Little Ice Age that took place centuries ago. Namely, that this cold period happened because of four violent volcanic eruptions. The ice age lasted centuries because the eruptions probably triggered a lasting chain reaction in the ocean currents, "affecting sea ice and ocean currents in a way that lowered temperatures for centuries," says the study's co-author. Previously, scientists thought a drastic drop in solar activity played a role in causing this cold era. But "this study showed that even if the Sun were less active, and therefore not warming the Earth as much, it would have had little effect," writes science blogger Phil Plait. The Little Ice Age ended with the commencement of the Industrial Revolution in the 18th century. The point here is that scientists use data and evidence to draw conclusions. Not talking points. And the consensus says that the planet is warming at an unnatural rate because of human activity. Unfortunately, some in the media in recent weeks have perpetuated the myth of an upcoming mini-ice age even though no one in the science community is making such predictions. The above video, by Peter Sinclair of the "Climate Crocks of the Week" YouTube series, showcases the perfect example of cable news gone awry with distortions and fabrications. Sinclair in the video then tracks down and interviews an actual scientist, something some media outlets rarely take the time to do. -- Brian Foley Read Full Solar Project Post
Courtesy of Compass More News From CompassPedaling to ProsperityAmericans save $4.6 billion per year by biking instead of driving -- and here's the data to prove it (pdf). Today, the Sierra Club, the League of American Bicyclists, and National Council of La Raza released new data highlighting the tremendous economic benefits of bicycling and its importance as a safe transportation choice that should be available to every U.S.Wind Energy at a CrossroadsHere's a look at why extending the Production Tax Credit for the wind energy sector is so crucial.Coal Use Drops to Record Lows While Clean Energy SoarsIt's amazing how much can change in a year.Plugging into the FocusLast week, I had fun test-driving the Ford Focus Electric, which goes on sale this month in California, New York, and New Jersey -- and in other markets later this year. Like the Nissan Leaf and Mitsubishi i-MiEV, the other full battery electric vehicles I’ve had the chance to ride, it had a smooth and quiet feel with powerful pick-up.Getting it RightMetro Atlanta (and Georgia) can do better -- that's why Sierra Club's Georgia Chapter opposes ballot measures that will fund transportation projects set to come before Georgia's voters in July.Related NewsThe Freedom Train: Canadian First Nations Ride to Stop Tar SandsDrums and prayer songs, dances and garden-grown gifts greet riders on the Freedom Train wherever they stop on their journey across Canada.Farm Owner Spreads Wife's Ashes to Protect Land From Natural Gas FrackingThis week, Aaron Mair represented the Sierra Club in Jefferson County, Pennsylvania where a local farmer, Dr.My Mother's Day WishAs the director of the Sierra Club's Beyond Coal Campaign, I have to do a lot of traveling, which means spending more time than I would like away from my two-year-old daughter, Hazel.Senator Sanders and Rep. Ellison Introduce the 'End Polluter Welfare Act'Every year, massive oil companies like Exxon and Chevron make headlines for the billions in profits they rake in at the expense of our environment, our economy and the health of our families.More From the India to Appalachia Trip: Grave Comparisons"These are invisible communities. |
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