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Summoning the courage
Rock Ethics Institute
Rock Ethics Institute
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Abstract
"The global community stands at a critical juncture as it decides how to deal with the potentially irreversible impacts of climate change on humanity and the environment. On the one hand, the COP-14 meeting in Poznan, Poland and COP-15 in Copenhagen, Denmark represent an unparalleled opportunity to reach new levels of cooperation—cooperation that is built on a growing unity of thought on the imperative of reducing greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs) globally. Governing bodies, civil society and concerned citizens around the world have rallied to raise awareness about this common challenge. Decades of research, advocacy and policymaking have also provided a strong scientific basis for action on climate change, have raised public consciousness and have provided norms and principles to guide actions. These efforts are remarkable at many levels. On the other hand, decision-making and climate policy development continue to be largely shaped by limited, nationalist perspectives that inhibit progress. The quest for solutions on this issue will be handicapped unless the climate change challenge is viewed from a more global vantage point. In fact, consequences may well be dire unless climate change negotiations transition from a state-centered model to one rooted in the unity which connects us as the inhabitants of one biosphere, the citizens of one world and the members of one human civilization. Just as critically, a global response to climate change must be capable of resolving a number of underlying ethical and moral issues. Difficult questions about justice, equity, responsibility and obligation remain to be addressed. The world’s spiritual and faith-based traditions have a vital role to play in fostering that dialogue, as do courageous leaders who will make these ethical questions central to their deliberations." (p. 1)
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2009-01
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With permission of the license/copyright holder