New publication: A new paradigm from the Arctic
The prevailing “consequences-based paradigm” defines the role of climate scientists as informing the public about the negative effects of climate change, assuming this will mobilize political action to reduce emissions.
This article uses insights from 27 academics, activists, and Arctic inhabitants to propose an alternative: a “harm-reduction paradigm.”
Key points from publication:
Academics, activists, and Arctic inhabitants are deeply concerned about cryosphere systems at imminent risk of collapse, and yet decades of “consequences-based” lobbying have failed to produce sufficient political will for deep decarbonization
There are moral imperatives to search for tools that may help stabilize polar Earth systems and to explore knowledge co-production and co-design with Arctic peoples to ensure both local and global benefits.
We propose a “compassionate harm reduction” paradigm, whereby climate scientists prioritize the well-being of humanity and take responsibility to thoroughly understand any potential interventions that might minimize the harm from the consequences of climate change.
Contributors include John C. Moore from the Arctic Centre - University of Lapland, Marc Macias-Fauria from Scott Polar Research Institute, University of Cambridge and Michael Wolovick from Center for Industrial Mathematics, University of Bremen.
Find the link below for access to the full paper