Clarification of climate change needed

Jonathan Porritt suggests a scientific review of the science behind The Climate Change Act as recent revelations have left many in confusion over the credibility of climate change science. In his recent blog, Jonathan Porritt recognises the damage done to the climate change debate in the UK following the ‘climate gate’ controversy at the University of East Anglia as well as lack of definitive action resulting from the Climate Change Summit in Copenhagen.

So-called ‘climate change deniers’ have gained further ammunition to their arguments due the events of recent months and action is needed to clarify the situation. Jonathan calls for a small team of scientists (of varying opinions), business men and scientifically-literate public figures who are trusted by the general public. The report delivered to a short time scale by this panel should address the following: “Does it still stack up? What should people make of all these recent revelations? Is the Climate Change Act (to which all three political parties have signed up) still based on robust scientific foundations? Can people still have confidence in the way climate science drives climate policy?”

There is little doubt that public opinion of this subject is divided and the facts are in need of clarification in order for us to move forward on this critical issue. Continued confusion will lead to lack of action and any decisions taken by the government will be undermined by lack of public support. Any such report as suggested by Jonathan needs to be independent and supported across the political parties to result in an agreement the public can believe in.

Jonathan Porritt is a well known environmentalist, who acts as adviser to a number of bodies on environmental matters including Prince Charles and Marks and Spencer.