The Living Earth Paradigm:
A better view for a better planet.
The prevailing perspective on climate change is leading us astray.
Issue | Prevailing Paradigm | Living Earth Paradigm |
---|---|---|
Carbon in the atmosphere | is the main problem. | Is a long-term problem, but a short-term distraction. |
Carbon in the soil | is a nice place to put carbon | is key to holding water and building life |
Water in the soil | is relatively unimportant | Is critical for cooling and for life |
Water in the atmosphere | has no net effect on climate | is the main driver of climate. |
Land temperature is mostly determined by | climate | ground cover: bare dry ground gets hot in the sun |
Plants are important because they | draw down carbon | cool the planet, hydrate the soil, control the weather (and draw down carbon) |
The main cause of fires, floods, and drought | climate change | destruction of soil and plant life |
Deserts result from | drought | mismanagement of land, livestock, and water |
Slowing water upstream | decreases water downstream | increases water downstream |
Living things | are affected by climate | control the climate |
Humans caused climate change by | burning fossil fuels | defoliating the planet |
Solutions have to come from | the power elite | almost everyone almost everywhere |
The climate problem must be addressed | globally | locally |
How long it will take to reverse… | greenhouse gas levels? 1000 yrs | landscape degradation? 10 years |
The most important thing to do | stop emissions that capture heat | restore healthy ecosystems |