OPINION:
As is the case with all major media sources worldwide, your article regarding Department of Defense programs addressing readiness for the predicted consequences of climate change confuses the issue (“Despite sea change at White House, Pentagon steps up climate change,” Web, June 3).
The controversy is not about environmental elements relating to air and water temperatures increasing or decreasing. It’s about the cause. Is human activity on planet Earth contributing to climate change, or are we simply experiencing a point in a natural cycle of cooling and warming that is caused by environmental factors beyond our ability to control?
While the Department of Defense would be irresponsible not to plan for rising seas and other potential concerns, its response has nothing to do with the discussion of cause — nor should it. Best journalistic practice should respect the distinction between “climate change” (fact-based) and “cause” (scientific study and conjecture), but it seldom does.
VINCENT MANSFIELD
Abita Springs, La.
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