Big response from skeptics

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While the many Castanet readers agree with the scientific consensus on climate change, the most vocal appear to be on the side of skepticism.

A Castanet poll found 46.7 per cent of respondents agreed that “climate change is science,” while 32 per cent felt those skeptical of climate change should be taken seriously.

The poll was in response to a UBC Okanagan professor who is hosting a discussion on his research on climate change skeptics throughout the world.

While the poll results suggested more people agree with climate science, the comments section skewed to those who felt man-made climate change is a grand conspiracy.

“Climate Change – the biggest single hoax (scam), in the history of mankind,” wrote ‘Tove Tyler.’ “The climate on this planet has been constantly changing since the beginning of time. It will do so til the end of time.”

“Climate change in current terms is a myth promoted by the likes of Al Gore and his cronies,” wrote ‘Gerry.’ “It’s a money-making machine for a few rich people and all governments worldwide. Real climate change is a natural phenomena, it’s been going on forever.”

Others were vocal about the value of the scientific method.  

“There is no question of 'belief' because it isn't based on faith,” wrote ‘Matt.’ “I acknowledge climate change because I've carefully gone through many different scholarly publications and observed the data for myself. I trust scientific consensus in the same way I trust the technology that is allowing me to type this.”

Others appeared to take pride in their willingness to reject the science.

“I am going to keep to a 50 per cent cow diet, drive my hummer and not recycle. What are you hippies going to do about it?” wrote ‘Men K.’