CLIMATE Change is perhaps the most frequently used buzz-phrase on the planet. It sits on the tongues of the laypeople and experts alike. But does anyone really have an understanding of what it denotes; can anyone really appreciate the magnitude of its reach?

Climate Change refers to any long-term variation in the statistics of the elements of climate over periods ranging from decades to millions of years. The elements of climate include rainfall, atmospheric pressure, temperature, humidity and wind, among other meteorological realities.

The term climate usually contrasts with weather; the former refers to a long-term change – one decade and beyond, while the latter refers to change ranging from one day up to less than a decade. The alteration of the modern climate may be appreciated by tracing the manifestation of elements of the climate over decades.

An associate phrase of Climate Change is ‘Global Warming’. The two, though often used as thus, are not synonymous. Climate Change is more generic in nature. It encompasses a wide range of manifestations of meteorological elements. Global Warming, however, refers specifically to the increase in the average temperature of the Earth’s near-surface air and oceans since the mid-20th century, and its projected continuation.

Factors that can shape or change climate are referred to as ‘climate forcings’. Climate forcings such as volcanic eruptions, orbital variations and plate tectonics are natural and outside of the control or cause-and-effect command of mankind. However, other climate forcings such as CO2 emissions resulting from industrial activities and the use of ozone-hazardous chemicals can be controlled.

The release of CO2 (carbon dioxide) and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere results in depletion of the ozone layer. The ozone layer is a film-like deposit in the earth’s atmosphere which contains high concentrations of ozone (O3). The ozone layer absorbs approximately 93-99% of the high frequency ultraviolet light (or rays) of the sun – radiation which can potentially threaten life on the planet.

Within this context, states must choose between pursuing economic activities which contribute to the rapid disintegration of the earth and pursuing economic activities that are environmentally friendly.

The Low Carbon Development Strategy launched by Guyana’s President Bharrat Jagdeo takes into account the various manifestations of a rapidly changing global environment; how this change may affect coastal states such as Guyana – whose coast is below sea-level; and how continued national development can be achieved by investment in areas that potentially can yield high profits while being low in carbon emission. Some of these areas include forestry resources, fruits and vegetables and aquaculture.

Almost 80% of Guyana’s territory is covered by pristine rainforests. Traditionally, sections of the forests have been used for timber production. Commensurate with an increasing demand for timber and its bi-products is the proliferation of forestry activities, some of which are illegal and not in the interest of sustainable development and environmental protection. In light of this fact, the Government has drafted an approach to utilising the forest in a manner that promotes economic development in an environmentally sustainable way, contingent upon international ethics and laws.

People involved in logging and mining will not be required to cease their operations. Instead, they will be required to conduct such economic activities in compliance with international environmental best practices. In addition, they will be required to observe regulations pertaining to where logging is permitted versus where forest is preserved for carbon sequestration.

Further, investment in fruits and vegetables is not only potentially high in profits, but it addresses concerns regarding food security.

The aquaculture sector is dynamic. Not only does a heightened focus on marine products promise to promote employment and economic advancement generally, but it can affect the tourism sector in a positive way.

Guyana proposes to preserve a large percentage of its forest for the purpose of carbon sequestration (or absorption) at an annual cost of US$580 million. Should Guyana succeed in its bid to secure acceptance of the final LCDS proposal at the Climate Conference in Copenhagen in December of this year, it would be equivalent to the Government’s establishment of a new sector – the outcome of a visionary and ambitious national development thrust. It will demonstrate how BIG small states can prove, and Guyana will certainly rise to better international acclaim and recognition.

This little space does not allow for adequate discourse on all of the thoughts that went into the drafting of the LCDS document and what benefits are imminent upon the execution of such a strategy. The nationwide consultations seek to bring the strategy home to residents all across Guyana. The document can also be accessed at www.lcds.gov.gy. All concerned are encouraged to read and understand the document, and provide feedback. The Government has decided to engage the participation of the citizenry because this strategy is of national importance, and the people of Guyana must, therefore, have a hand in its shaping.

So what is your opinion? Is Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy really a neo-economic thrust and a solution to Climate Change?
GUY SCHOLARI