Letter: Help to continue climate reporting

Among climate researchers actively publishing in refereed scientific journals, there is no dispute - none whatsoever - that the earth is heating because of the use of fossil fuels. And there is no dispute that we will experience increasingly devastating events unless we move to nonpolluting power sources.

Daily Herald climate writer Jenny Whidden reported in a June 26 report that most Chicago suburbanites accept that the climate is changing due to human activities. But most still don't understand the seriousness of the problem or the need for rapid action if we are to avoid catastrophic consequences.

Therefore, I'm delighted to learn from a Dec. 2 editorial that Whidden will continue to write articles involving the climate with the help of a grant from the Report For America (RFA) foundation. This will further inform suburban residents about the need to commit substantial resources to addressing climate issues, and to continue to elect federal representatives who will do so.

The only fly in the ointment is that Whidden's salary was only half funded by the RFA grant in her first yea. Funding will be cut to one third in her second year and further thereafter.

The Daily Herald is already running on a tight budget, so it is necessary that supplemental funds for climate articles come from the community. That means that you and I and many others who fear the consequences of climate inaction must chip in to support Whidden's vital work. You can donate at www.dailyherald.com/rfa.

I have already made a monthly pledge. I hope other readers will too.

Darold Barnum

Orland Park