Strong American leadership on combating global warming, what a concept! Leadership requires the intelligence to understand complex problems, courage to look challenges in the face and present solutions, and the strength of character to inspire people to join in efforts to solve problems.
On Nov. 18th, President Elect Barack Obama delivered the strongest, most committed call to action thus far on climate change from any U.S. President.
In a video presented at the Global Climate Summit, Obama stated “Now is the time to confront this challenge once and for all. Delay is no longer an option.
Denial is no longer an acceptable response. The stakes are too high. The consequences, too serious.” These words are amazing for their clarity and sense of determination.
He also spoke of “global cooperation”, which is a very refreshing change in approach but more importantly a prerequisite to finding and implementing solutions.
For Governor Ritter, and his peers leading the charge to address climate change, the President Elect’s assurance that they will have a “partner in the White House” should bolster their leadership and farsighted efforts.
Audubon members are inspired by this message from the highest office in our country.
We believe that nothing less than committed leadership from the most powerful nation on Earth will suffice to combat global warming – considered by most scientists to be the greatest threat to biodiversity in the history of mankind.
With this President Elect, the phrase “Yes We Can” also can thankfully be applied to solving this urgent problem.
Gary Graham is executive director of Audubon Colorado. To see the video go to . EDITOR’S NOTE: This online-only guest commentary has not been edited. Guest commentary submissions of up to 650 words may be sent to openforum@denverpost.com.
