Throughout the course of this interview, I feel like the relationship between the scientific studies on climate and what kinds of tangible actions individuals and larger groups could take to affect climate change, was highlighted. I think Kammen recognizes that not everyone can interpret and understand the results of climate change studies, or may not even have the time to, and so he underscores the importance of scientific experts working in tandem with government officials to make the appropriate actions. Kammen also recognizes the small impact individuals may make on the climate, and notes that small daily changes such as modes of transportation and diet can allow us to impact the climate. To what extent do these actions have on the climate, and are they as effective when only some of the population is making an effort? I recently read that recycling centers in America are inefficient, due to the vast amount of waste that is sent to these facilities. It seems to me that these recycling centers are only beneficial when everyone uses them appropriately. Thus, I would like to know how important it is that our society make a unified effort in changing our environmental impact, as opposed to separate individual efforts?
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This is extremely interesting to note, especially considering that in the interview about climate change with Gina McCarthy, she also mentions that she believes once she introduces the more scientific aspects of the topic to the general public they seem a lot less inclined to continue listening. She prefers to first talk with the scientists and understand the topic beforehand and then summarize it to present it in a method that is more likely to be accepted by the public. Thus, I would also like to ask Gina McCarthy your question as well in order to understand why she feels like it is important to make sure everyone understands the topic in a way that best suits them and may best encourage them to take action. I also wonder what she would think about Kammen emphasizing the importance of scientific experts and government officials working together and how much they could get done in terms of resolving these issues.