By Matthew Paulding
Buffalo State College cannot win an Oscar like Al Gore, but it can promote awareness of global warming.
A five-part series of films and guest speakers about global warming began earlier this month and will continue in April.
Thursday March 8 |
Dr. Stephen Vermette discusses the science of global warming. Bulger Communication East 12:15-1:30 p.m. |
Tuesday March 13 |
“An Inconvenient Truth” Upton Hall room 230 3:00-4:30 p.m. |
Tuesday March 20 |
Dr. Chris Walcek reviews the skeptical perspectives on anthropogenic global warming. Bulger Communication East 12:15-1:30 p.m. |
Thursday April 12 |
“Sila Alangotok’s Inuit Observations on Climate Change in Polar Regions” Upton Hall room 230 3:00-4:30 p.m. |
Tuesday April 24 |
WNY Climate Action Coalition discusses the politics of global warming. Bulger Communication East 12:15-1:30 p.m. |
Geography associate professor Stephen Vermette believes that knowledge of the situation is a good first step.
“As an individual, being aware, using less energy, following conservation practices and using your right to vote (is a good start),” Vermette said. “Really take a look at the candidates and figure out which one you want dealing with this issue. Take a stand.”
Buffalo State offers courses that focus on the study of global warming, such as world climatology and atmospheric science, as part of the meteorology climate program.
The speaker and film series allows students who cannot commit to a class to still learn and ask questions in an informal setting.
The award-winning film, “An Inconvenient Truth,” has turned the heat up on this issue. In it, Gore asserts that global warming will cause increased frequency and strength in storms; melt glaciers that will lead to flooding; and destroy habitats that will kill off existing species, including polar bears.
Walcek, meteorology professor at the University at Albany, was the most recent guest speaker in the series. He spent the last 15 years discussing global warming at university and community forums. He has also published research papers on the influence and interactions of clouds with air pollution, meteorology and climate.
Walcek’s solutions would be a hard sell for most people.
“If people are really concerned about their impacts on global warming, they should consider giving up their car and any other transportation, turning down the winter thermostat to less than 60 degrees… things that are not very fun to consider,” Walcek said.
The series concludes with meetings on April 12 and April 24. Attendance if free and refreshments will be served.
Contact Matthew Paulding at Paulms75@mail.buffalostate.edu
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Global warming may cause more massive hurricanes like Katrina (photo courtesy of AP)