Ignoring climate change is serious

When President Trump withdrew from the Paris accord on climate change, there was disappointment and anger from many more people than there were supporting it. His earlier statements that it is a hoax, that world scientists are wrong, are hard to believe. There have been radical changes in the world's climate, resulting in flooding, storms, drought, famine, rising oceans, all at a rapid rate. Action has to be taken now.

When the president made this decision, the U. S. joined the only two other nations: Nicaragua and Syria, making just these 3 nations that have not accepted this accord. Our planet is in serious trouble, Changes take a very long time, and action is needed NOW. The noted scientist Steven Hawking predicts that if serious action is not taken now, a human disaster will occur within the next SO years.

One writer explains that this pledge on global warming is voluntary and is not a law. If we did not withdraw but simply did not comply it has the same effect as withdrawing but without all the drama.

This is not an American problem, it is a world problem, and we are part of this world and a big contributor to the problem. This is not a time to be an isolationist or to antagonize allies. Several of our states, many governors, the mayor of Pittsburgh in coal country, major energy companies and others back this accord to cut emissions.

If this country fails to take needed actions others will assume leadership and take charge. Leadership in both the Democratic and Republican parties is weak. We will survive but when leadership in this country is poor and lacking, be leery of others taking over.

William McNutt

Des Plaines