Climate change: stop blaming, start doing

By David Brown - 30/04/2007

Looking to attribute blame to nations, institutions and even individuals is an unfortunate and unproductive aspect of the discussion and debate on the causes and consequences of global climate change. Now it appears that it is the oldies who are to blame.

A recent report “Greening the Greys: Climate Change and the over-50’s” published by a group of academics at York University, makes some interesting and revealing observations on the carbon footprint associated with the lifestyles of this sector of the UK population.

The report summarises a survey of around 700 people in North Yorkshire and showed that baby boomers (aged 50-64) have the highest carbon footprint and of any other age group in the UK. Their 15% higher carbon dioxide output per capita is put down to higher car dependency, holidays abroad and eating out. Those aged 64-75 had the second highest carbon footprint while the 75+ age group have the highest climate impact per £ spent because of their greater demand for home heating.  

Equally interesting are the survey’s findings on attitudes to climate change. Based upon concern for grandchildren, and their belief that climate change is already happening, the over 50’s are motivated to take action. However they expressed frustration about the barriers that prevent them from totally engaging in a low carbon lifestyle.  It appears that they do want to help, but they are at a loss to know what to do.

This is where a new project initiated under the Community Service Volunteers Retired and Senior Volunteer Programme (CSV/RSVP) aims to make a difference.

The RSVP project responds to the specific challenge to give the 50+ age sector the reliable advice and information it needs to allow them to contribute towards a more sustainable lifestyle. RSVP Project Leader David Brown says “there are essentially two threads to the project, each targeted at the over 50s. One aims to break through the mass of, often contradictory, advice and information and summarise realistic options, alternatives and approaches.  The second will identify volunteering opportunities and local/regional needs”.  

Within the project issues to be dealt with include energy, waste, food, water resources, travel/transport and ethical investment.  Anyone who is interested in becoming involved, has any suggestions or who would like additional information, should contact David Brown via e-mail: dave.abrown@btinternet.com