The Global Climate Crisis: Seeking Solutions that Work
In August 2006, John Holdren, President of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, warned that at the current pace of climate change, a catastrophic sea level rise of up to 4 meters is possible by 2100. In October 2006, scientists at Britain’s Hadley Centre for Climate Change warned that if we don’t make urgent cuts to our emissions, a third of our planet’s land will be desert by the end of the century. Also in October, Sir Nicholas Stern, Senior Economist at the World Bank, warned that if we do not address global warming, we face an economic failure as great as the Great Depression, wiping 5% - 20% off global GDP. If we do take the necessary steps, the investment will cost just 1% of the world’s GDP. In February 2007, Premier Gordon Campbell made the commitment that British Columbia would reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 33% by 2020. (10% below 1990). European nations have set a goal of 20% below 1990 by 2020. The City of London has set a goal of 60% below 1990 by 2025. So what are the solutions? This 1-day course at Royal Roads University, Victoria, examines solutions for every area where change is needed - transport, heat, power, buildings, industry, farming, and forestry, and considers the best solutions for individuals, businesses, communities, governments, B.C., and the world. It will provide an overview of the technologies, policies, behavioural changes, political strategies, and local and personal actions that are needed, including the use of solar, wind, and ocean energy, super-efficiency, ethanol and biofuels, hydrogen, carbon capture and sequestration, zero energy buildings, electric vehicles, transit, cycling, smart growth, tree-planting, and policies such as targeted reductions, tax-shifting, carbon taxes, carbon credit cards, and cap and trade. All participants will receive a CD with all the images from Guy’s presentation. www.royalroads.ca/continuing-studies/PAGI1225-06.htm Guy Dauncey is author of the prize-winning book Stormy Weather: 101 Solutions to Global Climate Change. He is President of the BC Sustainable Energy Association (www.bcsea.org), and has founded or co-founded the BCSEA, Victoria Car Share Cooperative, The Solutions Project, EcoNews, and Prevent Cancer Now. See www.earthfuture.com
To Register:
(a) Online at www.royalroads.ca/continuing-studies/PAGI1225-06.htm (Visa, MasterCard or American Express)
(b) By phone, Mon to Fri 9 – 4pm, at (250) 391-2600, ext. 4801# or Toll Free 1-866-890-0220
(c) In person at Continuing Studies, Grant Building, Royal Roads University, 2005 Sooke Rd, VictoriaCourse Number: PAGI 1225
