“It always seems impossible until it’s done”

-Nelson Mandela

Climate change, much like any global issue, is not easily solved.  From the protection of small island states to the broad task of financing solutions, tackling it on an international level requires a great level of ambition.  Al Gore, former Vice President of the United States and powerful climate activist at the forefront of the environmental crusade, is surely not lacking in this determination.  His efforts to spread public awareness have not gone unnoticed, and regardless of an individual’s political views, are to be greatly commended.  We, as the COP20 delegation from SES, had the opportunity to absorb his enthusiasm first-hand; Gore’s presentations this week have provided great motivation, as the next generation of leaders, to follow in hot pursuit of a better world.

               

On Wednesday, Gore gave a presentation resembling an updated version of “An Inconvenient Truth”, synthesizing the most recent climate data into an engaging presentation focused on mobilizing people of all walks of life to do something about climate change.  After reviewing the data for human causation, Gore focused primarily on climate data for developing countries such as Peru.  Presenting the extreme weather events that have occurred across the world in relation to climate change, he stressed the importance of taking action and making our voices heard.

Al Gore introducing his ideology at the first presentation.

Gore’s Thursday presentation took on a different form; this time, members of non-governmental organizations were able to ask their own questions.  From methods of environmental education to views on human rights, Gore’s knowledge and involvement was nothing short of incredible. 

Despite the mounting evidence of climate change, Gore’s genuine optimism shone through in his opening statements.  Beginning with renewable energy, he created an analogy to the cell phone industry.  While first seen as little competition, quality and demand began to grow rapidly.  In a similar way, we are now at the tipping point of renewable energy; we are at the point where we are beginning to replace the old system.  Our ability to mobilize youth, band together, and speak out in the fight against fossil fuels is why Gore was adamant that “we are going to win this…we are going to prevail…the only question is how much human suffering will go into this…but there is no question that we will win.” 

Al Gore answers questions at a special briefing for NGO representatives.

As the discussion continued, Gore discussed the great opportunity that we have at hand; the fight against climate change will require collaboration, sacrifice, and hard work.  Even beyond the realm of climate change, these elements will create a more peaceful global community.  Linked with what Gandhi called "satyagraha" or the “truth force”, we, as the youth, have the opportunity to make a fresh assessment of the reality in which we are living.  Maintaining a commitment to integrity, we can more clearly define our views, consider why on earth we can’t do something, and gather others.  This system of collaboration, supported by Gore, is a great opportunity to be gained from the horrible issue of climate change.  As we move forward, the promise of continued success provides hope that we can truly change the world.