Climate change: things we can do
BMJ 2015; 351 doi: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.h3591 (Published 02 July 2015) Cite this as: BMJ 2015;351:h3591
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It is great to see climate change and ideas about how to address it hitting the headlines. However, whilst most people now acknowledge the problem and know that action needs to be taken, it is more difficult to decide how to translate this into practical action on an individual basis. Why doesn't the BMA make a more concerted effort to combat climate change? Appointing a designated climate change committee or representative would be a start, perhaps with a representative in each trust or CCG to encourage strategic emissions reduction in the NHS. Specific guidance for doctors wanting to make a difference to climate change would also be useful, so that we can take solid action as well as being aware of and talking about the problem.
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Man-made disasters should be mitigated to prevent climate changes and global warming. More than the population explosion, the emission of electromagnetic radiation from millions of electronic instruments, deforestation and motor vehicle emissions should be checked to slow down and prevent climate change.
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You are right to focus on institutions with large investments in fossil fuels. Another in this group is the Universities Superannuation Scheme - USS - they hold more than the Wellcome Trust - over £ 500 million and have a so called 'Responsible Investment' strategy yet refuse to consider disinvestment despite the evidence of the threat of climate change. They also refuse to conduct a survey of their members on this issue. Please include USS in your campaign for disinvestment.
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Scare-care is a poor substitute for healthcare. Healthcare experts who manufacture public hysteria about controversial issues, without acknowledging the legitimacy of opposing points of view, are not advancing public health. Healthcare is not monolithic, and there are legitimate questions about such sacred cows as vaccines, statins, antibiotics, tranquilizers, antidepressants, and global warming (climate change). Healthcare requires balance and fairness, not bias or fear.
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Re: Climate change: things we can do
Dear Editor
All of us should consider ensuring that some of our private pensions, investments and savings support renewable or green initiatives as opposed to owning interests in our current hydrocarbon based economy. BMA financial services or indeed any financial advisers should guide us to climate conscious trusts and funds that will ensure that wind, solar and green hydrogen technologies are adopted and developed. Putting our money where are mouths are will ensure practical action that will reduce climate anxiety and distress.
Competing interests: No competing interests