Big History – News-Views Digest

Slide2Sustainability Education News-Views Digest

SEF News-Views Digest No. 116 (1-13-16)

Big PictureIn previous editorials I’ve expressed my concerns about the general lack of “big picture” thinking and understanding of most people. Discerning ways to instill in citizens the ability to think critically and creatively—and, subsequently, act responsibly—has been uppermost in my mind in recent years, primarily due to the widening ideological schism between conservatives and progressives.

What’s Next? – News-Views Digest

> NOTICE! Citizens for Sustainability: Business & Discussion Forum, Sat., Jan. 9, 10 am-noon, St. Anthony Village Community Center, Room CS9, 3301 Silver Lake Rd.

Sustainability Education News-Views Digest

SEF News-Views Digest No. 115 (1-6-16)

Now that the holiday celebrations are over, and we’ve siatered 2016, what’s next? According to widespread media sources, many citizens may continue experiencing discontent with many aspects of life—economically, politically, and socially. Meanwhile, those of us fortunate enough to remain middle-class citizens may continue enjoying overall life satisfaction in 2016, perhaps even for years to come. But, maybe not, depending on what happens next—beginning this year.

Technofixers or Powerdowners? – News-Views Digest

Slide2Sustainability Education News-Views Digest

SEF News-Views Digest No. 114 (12-16-15)

I assume that most readers are not deniers of such controversial realities as climate change, evolution, and the effects of humans on environmental degradation. I also assume that most readers are committed at some level to advancing “sustainability (green) causes”.

Within the sustainability movement there are groups focused on specific interests, such as renewable energy sources, wildlife preservation, land use, oceans and waterways protection, climate change mitigation, and so on. Readers of this newsletter represent a wide range of interests, including the areas mentioned.

The Prince of COP21 – News-Views Digest

Sustainability Education Forum News-Views Digest

SEF News-Views Digest No. 113 (12-9-15)

Prince Charles speaking at COP21, ParisWhat a significant week this has proven to be, with the COP21 proceedings making some historical progress in addressing climate-change issues. The keynote address, delivered by HRH The Prince of Wales, eloquently summarized the major climate-related issues needing international attention, including adopting systematic plans undertaking effective measures as soon as possible. In place of my normal commentary—and rather than summarizing his inspiring talk—I urge you to read the transcript and/or view the video presentation: A Speech By HRH The Prince Of Wales At The COP21 Session, Paris.

COP21: Too Little, Too Late? – News-Views Digest

Sustainability Education Forum News-Views Digest

SEF News-Views Digest No. 112 (12-2-15)

Climate March in Minneapolis, MN (11/28)
Climate March in Minneapolis, MN (11/28)

Are you, or anyone you know, experiencing the effects of weather extremes? It appears that the news is increasingly about extreme weather conditions—locally, regionally, nationally and all over the world.

Many people don’t fully understand the long-term effects of mounting CO2 accumulations in the atmosphere. Because day-to-day living is challenging enough, most people give little thought in planning for an unimagined future, especially the projected effects of climate change. Bettye and I, along with others of the combined Silent-Boomer generation, will likely experience minimal hardships during our remaining lifetimes. But, according to most scientific projections, anyone living in the second half of this century will likely face some increasingly turbulent times. (Sorry about that! We really meant well, having enjoyed inordinate consumerism and modern lifestyles.)