Problems come down to fossil fuel

Recently I read an article regarding climate change in our Northwest region. Climate warming is having broad impacts — threatening humans and wildlife both. Now there is evidence that our precious salmon runs and oyster beds are affected.

I read in the June 4 Herald that the Tulalip Tribes are studying ocean acidification, which is a side effect of climate change. (Guest commentary by Billy Frank Jr., “Tribes are reacting to climate change.“) Apparently, the ocean acidification impacts the local eel grass beds. The chemistry of the ocean and Puget Sound is changing because water absorbs carbon dioxide produced by the burning of fossil fuels.

Scientists have warned for many years that climate change and rising earth temperatures will increase the frequency and severity of extreme weather.

Flooding and increasing occurrences of storms (example, flooding of the Mississippi River and the drought in Texas) is further evidence supporting the science. All of these changes point to the need for a shift in our policies with regard to the use of fossil fuels.

Betty Snyder
Langley