Close the gap

WHEN it comes to climate change and pollution, there seems to be two types of understanding and two levels operating.

The first level that includes youth and the average Mr and Mrs Fijian citizen, has limited or no knowledge of climate change and how pollution can contribute to it.

They won’t be able to explain the difference between weather and climate or the term carbon footprint; or to give an example of a fossil fuel or explain coral bleaching.

They will blame frequent and intense weather events on climate change but not be able to explain the connection.

They will look at a shoreline strewn with plastics and not be moved.

They will burn rubbish containing plastics and polystyrene without a care.

They will have heard of climate change but will leave it to the politicians and climate activists to deal with it.

On the other level, there are the activists, the environment NGOs and the climate scientists who understand all too well the impact pollution and climate change is having on our lives and our environment. They will know the causes and effects as well as being able to offer solutions to mitigate climate change.

There is a clear gaping divide about pollution and climate change and specifically the knowledge around it. For any action to turn the situation around, for what is happening to the environment to be understood and respected by everyone, knowledge needs to be out there and understood.

Knowledge will be the driver; providing the political will.

Only then, when the gap is closed, action will take place on the ground, in schools and at the grassroots level.

JULIE SUTHERLAND

Tamavua, Suva