I write in response to the column by Adele Ferguson in the July 12 edition of the Bremerton Patriot.

Although it is now the general consensus among scientists that the world is experiencing a climate change and that human activity is contributing to it, Adele Ferguson continues to follow her ideological commitment to no climate change. She writes that “numerous scientists” are on both sides of the issue. In actuality, the vast majority of scientists recognize that climate change is happening and that we contribute to it. For every scientist that Adele Ferguson can name who support her position, I can name 20 who oppose it.

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change is an international group of scientists who were appointed to study the issue and make reports. Scientists from all countries are welcome to participate in the studies. Over the past couple decades they have made reports; the latest report (named AR4) was made in 2007. It is far too lengthy to print here, but you are welcome to view the report online at http://ipcc-wg1.ucar.edu. The report is divided into many sections to which you may refer. I found it most helpful to click on the reference to Frequently Asked Questions.

Here is one short quote: “An increase (0.35°C) occurred in the global average temperature from the 1910s to the 1940s, followed by a slight cooling (0.1°C), and then a rapid warming (0.55°C) up to the end of 2006.” Although this sounds small, the cumulative effect on climate change is significant. A later paragraph cites the melting that is happening on the Greenland ice cap. I hope that Adele Ferguson will read that.

EDWARD ROE

Silverdale