Radical action to save the planet

Sir, – How tragic that so many lives have been lost during this pandemic, yet out of tragedy we usually always find something beneficial to be gained.

The benefit I can see is man has an opportunity to clean up our planet for the betterment of our children and grandchildren.

People are marvelling at how clean city air is at the moment due to virtually no vehicles polluting the streets.

Indeed, with all flying at a minimum one would imagine the whole planet is benefiting.

Wouldn’t it be amazing if mankind grabbed this opportunity?

I’ve heard scientists say they cannot see man survive beyond 2050 if we carry on the way we are going.

How about these suggestions for starters to sort out the planet:

From 2022, all new cars bought must be electric;

All petrol and diesel driven cars must be off the road by 2025;

Fuel companies must diversify and build solar panels, wind turbines, and hydro power stations. They could also instal car charging points throughout the country which will be required very quickly;

All holidays abroad using flights to stop. Holidays must be taken in one’s home country or via travel by car or ferry to the continent;

Planes must become solar powered. This will take time as this innovation is still in the early stages;

It must be the same for ferries and shipping. They must diversify as well. This may be more difficult but there is no reason why it could not happen if we have the desire to do so.

Now, this may all come across as quite radical but that is what is needed.

Of course the capitalists in our society would poo-poo this as unworkable because they would be the ones to suffer most.

What a shame that they would be asked to plough their billions into something beneficial to mankind rather than their pockets.

Perhaps they should realise when we talk of extinction, that includes them as well.

Robert Donald. Denhead Farm, Ceres.