Comment: In response to Mike Hosking on climate change, I say bring it on
Rosalee Jenkin is a member of youth climate advocacy group Generation Zero, and part of the team campaigning for a Zero Carbon Act. For young people who will inherit the future (along with all the consequences of today's actions) and for anyone with a desire to see their children, grandchildren, nieces or nephews have a shot at a decent life it's not as if we needed further motivation to act on climate change. But in a recent statement , Mike Hosking gave us all a healthy top-up by setting a clear challenge to the incoming interim Climate Change Committee to be more action and less talk. It's heartening to know that you feel the weight of this issue on your shoulders, Mike, and we appreciate that there are days when the fight against climate disruption seems futile. Yes, the Kyoto protocol was a shambles. Yes, the Paris accord is only the first (albeit important) step towards actual carbon reductions, and we need to drastically up our game if we're to have any hope of turning this beast around. And yes "good will, hot air and earnestness" simply aren't going to cut it. But do you know what else belongs in the 'won't help one bit' pot? Apathy, and a lack of imagination. It must be hard being stuck in your ways, unable (or perhaps just unwilling?) to imagine what a carbon-neutral economy looks like. Luckily, those around you are already upping their game: Toyota New Zealand has just promised to electrify all available car models by 2025. One of our major fossil fuel retailers, Z Energy, has backed the Zero Carbon Act from the early days, and Fonterra is now supporting the Government's efforts to transition to a low carbon economy. It's going to take guts, that's for sure along with perseverance, and no doubt a lot of smart thinking. And it's ok if you're not up for that, Mike, because those who do have the desire and weight to actually do something about it can take things from here. The tides might be rising, but they are also turning; you can either jump on the boat or be left to splash about in the cold (have fun with that). It all comes down to what motivates you. Aside from our quality of life depending on it, we're campaigning for this climate law the Zero Carbon Act because we happen to think the people and places of Aotearoa deserve protection, and we know that New Zealanders are a caring, intelligent and courageous bunch who don't shy away from a problem. What about you, Mike? The incidents are being investigated and firefighters may face disciplinary action.