Al Gore

Last night I co-hosted a viewing party for Al Gore’s film An Inconvenient Truth. We had about 23 people in attendance. Most were already concerned about the issue, and a few already knew a lot about it. But the film provided much information for most of the attendees, and raised the level of concern; it galvanized folks to want to do something. Our primary hostess had a lovely home with a big room for viewing and a big-screen TV. We also had a visit from a local state representative (John Brautigam) who said a few words about environmental issues in Maine; he’s received a 100% rating on environmental issues from the Maine League of Conservation Voters.

Lots of folks brought food to share (the shrimp were terrific!). Everyone was in good spirits, despite the seriousness of the threat from global warming. In fact it was a fun party, as well as a useful get-together. After the film there was lots of good discussion, especially about what plain folks can do about the issue. I think we all left with determination to alter our lifestyles in order to conserve energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and with a resolve to make global warming a top-priority issue at the voting booth.

The film itself (which I’ve seen five times now) gives a good treatment of the science of global warming (not perfect, but as good as could be reasonably expected). It was deadly serious in places; when Gore talks about the World Trade Center memorial being under water, the camera shows the audience of Gore’s presentation, and the look on their faces underscores the gravity of the situation. But it was also funny in places. Gore combines wit, humor, and sincerity with great effectiveness. He’s an outstanding advocate of action, both personal and political. If he’d been this relaxed and charismatic in 2000, he’d have won that election (well, he did win that election…).

I’m especially glad that people’s focus was what we can actually do; rather than despair, the emphasis was on action. It’s certainly a daunting challenge, and frankly, no matter what we do the global situation is going to get worse. But the actions we take today will make the difference between “really bad” and “disastrous.” It’s our moral obligation to give our children the best world we can, and not to abdicate our responsibility to make the best of what is a very bad situation.

So don’t despair. Alter your lifestyle to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. Car-pool to work. Ride a bike. Wrap your water-heater. Use compact flourescent bulbs. And make global warming a top-priority issue at the voting booth. If our elected officials won’t get serious about this, throw the bums out.

I usually blog about the science of global warming, and I’ll get back to doing that. But last night’s gathering was an inspiring experience I’ll not soon forget. If you get the chance to attend a viewing party for An Inconvenient Truth, don’t pass it up. You might learn something useful, and you’re bound to meet a lot of good people. My thanks to everyone in attendance.