To the Editor:
Mr. Streb in his March 22 letter to the editor says that “Prudence calls for taking a ‘go slow’ approach” for developing public policy on climate change. In the report “Global Climate Change: A Plea for Dialogue, Prudence, and the Common Good,” (2001), the U.S. Catholic bishops have also called for a prudent approach to climate change, but with a different conclusion.
In referring to a report of the highly respected International Panel on Climate Change, the bishops note that “significant delays in addressing climate change may compound the problem and make future remedies more difficult, painful and costly. On the other hand, the impact of prudent actions today can potentially improve the situation over time, avoiding more sweeping action in the future.”
I do not advocate rushing into solutions for climate change, but there is enough scientific evidence for beginning serious discussions on how the U.S. can take immediate and significant action to reduce carbon dioxide emissions. Children and grandchildren of our generation will thank us for our bold actions.
Sr. Cathleen Real, CHM
Davenport
