A short time before Thanksgiving, the U.S. government released The Fifth National Climate Assessment. I am thankful that there is some progress, as the report states.
From Fifth National Climate Assessment
Annual US greenhouse gas emissions fell 12% between 2005 and 2019. This trend was largely driven by changes in electricity generation: coal use has declined, while the use of natural gas and renewable technologies has increased, leading to a 40% drop in emissions from the electricity sector. Since 2017, the transportation sector has overtaken electricity generation as the largest emitter. As US emissions have declined from their peak in 2007, the country has also seen sustained reductions in the amount of energy required for a given quantity of economic activity and the emissions produced per unit of energy consumed. Meanwhile, both population and per capita GDP have continued to grow. Recent growth in the capacities of wind, solar, and battery storage technologies is supported by rapidly falling costs of zero- and low-carbon energy technologies, which can support even deeper emissions reductions.
Each person, household, business and government in the U.S. and throughout the world must do more. But let’s feel grateful for our progress and maintain momentum for more in the future.
Giving Thanks
Let’s remember how important it is to continue the work of reducing carbon emissions. Consider the many joys on our home planet Earth that make us grateful for living here.
- Love from families with their many ages and variety
- Companionship of pets when we need a lift
- Wildlife sightings in the wilderness
- A gentle, cooling rain after a hot, dry day
- Sunlight glistening on newly fallen snow
- An oasis in the desert
- The soothing sights and sounds of waterfalls
- Natural fibers that clothe us
- The blossoming of beautiful flowers
- Healthy seas and lakes filled with fish, waterfowl, coral, and plant life
- Snow-capped mountains rising above fields of grass and streams
- Forest stillness as birds begin their evening songs
Think for just a moment of the natural joys of earth that thrill you and give you peace. Feel your gratitude. Never forget – we are stewards of this planet.
