In reference to my post on the lifecycle analysis (LCA) of wind turbines, a reader writes:
The LCA of fossil fuel (or nuclear) powered electricity production presumably shows a good return in terms of direct power out vs. power consumed. Until, that is, you start to quantify the externalities – pollution, climate impact, resource
Director Michael Nash has traveled the world collecting evidence demonstrating the human face of climate change from Tuvalu to the Pentagon, addressing the grim reality of the challenges we face. Whether man made or natural climatic shifts are causing the most recent temperature shifts, extreme climatic events and a rise in sea levels are visibly affecting people across the world, today.
In fact we have witnessed the strain of merely 300,000 climate refugees from Hurricane Katrina in the United States first hand; one can only imagine how 50 million climate refugees would strain governments across the country. Not yet an officially recognized status by the UN, it is estimated that there will be 50 million climate refugees by 2011. Due to increased flooding, storm events, drought and desertification, civilizations are again engaging in nomadic type movements for survival.
The documentary focuses on underdeveloped and third world countries where climate change serves as a threat multiplier for their already stressed populations. South Pacific countries are already looking to purchase land to migrate their populations to higher ground. It is estimated that Tuvalu will be the first country to disappear from the map. The conflict in Darfur, labeled by most as an ethnic battle, may actually be our first major climate conflict as water scarcity in the region adds to the fight for resources after the drying of Lake Chad.
What will happen when Asian rivers, serving as the primary clean water source, fed by disappearing Himalayan glaciers begin to dry. Food scarcity from drought, flooding, freezing or salt water intrusion will drive food prices up. Displaced residents, again primarily third world residents, may not be accepted by many nations. Who will take them in? Depletion of water, arable land, non-renewable energy sources will all lead to more conflict. Who will fight?
Climate Refugees is truly a must see for both new and old to the environmental movement, or maybe better phrased a movement to save human race. Climate Refugees serves as a resounding call to press for attention by world leaders and as soul food and inspiration for those fighting the good fight to keep advancing the mission of the sustainability.
Not yet commercially available, if you are interested in viewing Climate Refugees, look for a screening near you on their website. Over the next two weeks (Jan 20-Feb 2) US Green Building Council Chapters, led by the Emerging Professional committees, are participating in a nationwide screening effort with over 20 locations. Miami and New York City were the first locations and kicked-off at packed theaters in both cities.