Climate Change – Is Denial and Inaction Worth the Risk?
By Thomas S. Cahir | Administrator, Cape Cod RTA/CapeFLYER
Although there are strong and vocal differences of opinion regarding the impacts of climate change on the planet from human activities, the devasting results from increasing global temperatures, including: rising sea levels and severe weather events are undeniable. All we need to do is to look at a few of the more recent catastrophic weather events that have occurred causing major harm, disruption, and loss of life to large numbers of individuals, families, and businesses across our great Country. It is impossible to turn a blind eye on the devastating optics and immeasurable grief caused by extreme weather-related events, such as: hurricane Helene’s impact on South Carolina and hurricane Milton’s impact on Florida. As a lifelong resident of Cape Cod, I am particularly concerned with the irreparable harm that rising sea levels are having on the pristine and environmentally sensitive areas across all sections of the Cape. Additionally, as Administrator of the Cape Cod Regional Transit, I see firsthand the impact that even more modest weather events have had on the CCRTA’s ability to safely traverse roadways due to flooding, which is growing worst with each passing year.
With the recent refocusing of federal funding priorities away from climate change initiatives, the challenges of addressing climate change have become more challenging. Fortunately, we have outstanding leadership on the Cape comprised of multiple organizations supported by numerous individuals who sacrifice their time and efforts with the goal of protecting the Cape’s fragile environment. However, in order for these dedicated individuals to continue with their past successes, it requires all of us to step up in our individual efforts. The enduring adage of “think globally, act locally” has never been more needed given the shift of federal funding priorities away from climate change. As Administrator of the Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority, I remain committed to do our part through the continued migration from our fossil fuel vehicle fleet to low and no emission vehicles over the next several years.
Whether or not human activities are the cause of the profound climate change problems we are facing, we need to ask ourselves whether denial of these causes and the resulting inaction that is taking place is worth the risk. Therefore, let’s all get involved in being part of the climate change solution, even if in small ways.