Abstract
Few issues solicit extreme views from everyone you ask. Yes, no, black, white. Abortion rights are one such issue. Most argue adamantly for the side they have chosen, ignoring any conflicting statements. Sustainability defines a state that can continue over time without degradation. Over the last year I have become more aware of the risks to the earth’s sustainability due to human interaction. I have found the same unwillingness on this topic to have a reasonable discussion among friends. Even some actuaries who, on other issues, attempt to substitute facts for appearances will argue very strongly on this topic. Bringing up global warming seems in particular to be a non-starter. While many believe that human activities are driving the earth’s warming, others point to natural and recurring cycles driven by the sun. If the earth’s climate passes a tipping point and spirals out of control, and the human population is no longer supported, it really does not matter why. We should be taking steps now to adjust to the world where we will live in the future rather than waiting to see what caused the devastation. Small adjustments and investments made now can avoid larger changes and societal breakdowns later.
Keywords: Climate Change, Global Warming
Volume
Winter, Vol. 1
Page
1-4
Year
2014
Categories
Financial and Statistical Methods
Extreme Event Modeling
Other Extreme Events
Publications
Casualty Actuarial Society E-Forum
