Gary Humphries is right (Climate, not Covid, is our nemesis, CW, 19 August 2021, p10). While Covid is the immediate challenge, like other viruses, we will eventually learn to manage it with annual vaccinations like we do with influenza, although we have learned that masks, social distancing and staying home from work when unwell are part of the mix. Climate change, on the other hand, is a long-term problem that has no vaccination solution.
For some people, even despite ferocious fires like the 2020 Namadji (sic) fire, climate change seems too far away in the future. However, surveys show that three-quarters of Australians are concerned about climate change, especially those who are parents.
But the effects of climate change, such as more frequent and extreme weather events, are with us now, and in real estate in some parts of Australia, the cost of insurance is becoming prohibitive.
The trick for the world is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions fast. The only way to do this is to move quickly to renewables. Fortunately, they are now cheaper than coal and gas and the ACT is well ahead of the pack making it an attractive place to live. But Australia as a whole has made a patchy start, and we have a long way to go. As Gary says, the time to act is now, not wait for 10, 20 or 30 years.
R. Peck, Hawthorn, Victoria
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