Dear Daily Disaster Diary, September 3rd, 2024

 The world hates change, yet it is the only thing that has brought progress.

- Charles F. Kettering

We might not be spiraling into chaos overnight, but let’s not kid ourselves—the risks of climate change are undeniably growing. 

Yes, the science is clear, but now there's something else creeping into the picture: a deep sense of overwhelm that only worsens as crisis after crisis hits. 

Sure, it's tempting to sugarcoat things with uplifting stories about climate action. And yes, that's important—because hysteria paralyzes. But let's be real: nice stories alone won't cut it.

What we really need is a combination of new mindsets, financial support distributed fairly, and, most crucially, a collective will. Right now, we’re witnessing an epic battle between different factions—those clinging to outdated notions of security and those pushing for urgent transformation. 

And guess what? This tug-of-war keeps getting bogged down by narrow-minded focus on their respective “clients” or interests.

Here’s the deal: Climate protection isn’t just a chore—it’s an opportunity, both technologically and economically. And yes, success stories and positive examples can help open people’s eyes. 

But let’s not fool ourselves. The harsh realities of the climate crisis won’t just disappear with a smile and a wave. Every single opportunity that brings us closer to stability needs to be seized.

Here’s a concrete win: In January 2016, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania saw the closure of the Shenango Coke Works Facility—one of the largest coal processing plants. The result? 

An immediate drop in air pollutants like sulfur dioxide and arsenic. And here’s the kicker—a significant reduction in hospitalizations for cardiovascular diseases followed. 

A study in Environmental Health Research found that from 2016 to 2018, hospital stays due to heart disease dropped compared to the three years prior. Right after the plant closed, emergency visits for other causes saw no significant change.

Now, while these results don’t prove causality, there’s a strong statistical link between the plant’s closure and the improved health of the surrounding community. That’s not just a story—that’s a call to action!

So, let's stop dithering and start making bold moves. The bitter truth of this crisis is here, and we can’t ignore it. 

Every step towards the stability we crave counts. Let’s get it done!