Gabriela Mueller, Cumbalum
Scientists tell us that the consequences of a changing climate will be higher temperatures, prolonged heatwaves, more intense bushfires, longer and more severe droughts – all of which will have an impact on our health and future water and food security and could lead to civil unrest.
The Rural Fire Service tells us to prepare our properties for bushfire season, to have a plan.
NSW State Emergency Services tell us to have a plan for possible tsunamis and in June 2017 held a local tsunami training exercise in Ballina.
Is any government or government agency urging us to have a plan and prepare for climate change?
Are we prepared to deal with the consequences of climate change? Should we prepare on an individual or community level? Who should lead the way in organising community information sessions, workshops, etc.?
A lot of local councils (Byron and Lismore included) have already declared a climate emergency. Would local councils be interested and brave enough in taking the lead to prepare their communities for what will be a very challenging and different future from the present time we know now?
I encourage you to read an essay written by Catherine Ingram Facing Extinction; but be warned, it does not paint a pretty picture of our future.
We need to have a plan and prepare to deal with the consequences of a changing climate NOW!
For four decades The Echo has printed the stories some people loved, some people hated, and some pretended not to read. If you want us to keep telling the truth, the real truth, not the sugar-coated version. We’ll need your support to keep the presses rolling. 
