Working together

This past week was the 10th anniversary of the release of the film, Journey of the Universe. More on that later. The universe consists of a good deal more than the G7 countries - soon to meet later this year. Nevertheless Canada’s academic researchers have recently joined others to encourage the countries of the G7 to work together on key issues. We live on a planet that includes many more countries, but these have some common ground.

The researchers have stressed the need for working together on both health and environmental issues. The latter includes three priorities - climate change, biodiversity and better sharing of health data in emergencies like the current pandemic. Usually such information is provided before meetings, but the recent ones strongly stress the need for collective action. No country can work alone.

Climate change and loss of biodiversity have clear connections. When weather affects the food chain, a global reaction follows and affects health everywhere. The recommendations include better sharing of data and principles of common responses. Reversing biodiversity loss is key. We have to value nature, not exploit it. The effects of doing so affect the health and safety of the most disadvantaged both within and beyond our shores. Proposals need to be concrete.

Talking about net zero emissions from coal, oil and natural gas is not the same thing as implementing the necessary changes. We have learned that putting the economy ahead of global health has consequences that affect us all. But it is not just governments that have to take action on their own. Politicians are elected to lead - but they have to follow the wishes of an informed public committed to the changes that create a better world for all.