Letter: We can’t ignore global warming consequences

Thursday, July 25, 1996 | 11:59 a.m.

The growing number of pronouncements that global warming is real are becoming harder to ignore. Not only are they more visible, they are being made by greater numbers of respected scientists.

In truth, any sincere call for action on global warming requires strong support for both reductions in fossil-fuel use and an expanded role for alternative energy sources. Unfortunately, the response of Congress has been to slash energy efficiency and alternative energy research budgets.

The development of technologies to save energy and to produce electricity without burning fossil fuels will be a major undertaking. Yet considering the potential magnitude of devastation that will be wrought if global warming is real makes it an important investment.

This is the role of government, for without support for the design of the next generation of nuclear power plants, for the development of wind generators and solar cells, and for producing electric vehicles and more efficient appliances, these important products will not be available. And without such technologies, we will continue to burn vast amounts of coal, oil and gas, altering the climate with the carbon dioxide emissions.

Frank R. Bruce