Climate change is not only associated with our extreme weather and rising food prices, but it can also be harmful to health (“Climate change takes back seat on campaign trail,” Page A2, Aug. 1).
Scientists warn that the buildup of carbon pollution will create warmer temperatures, which may increase the risk of dangerous smog levels. Any increases in smog will mean more childhood asthma attacks and complications for those with lung disease.
This is particularly scary for me as a mother to a son who suffers from asthma. My son already says that on hotter days it is harder for him to breathe. That means he’s reaching for his inhaler to medically open his airway. He should be able to play outside without worry that he suddenly will not be able to breathe.
For the sake of our economy and our health, our politicians can no longer afford to ignore the reality of the harm created by carbon pollution. At a minimum, they should fully support the Environmental Protection Agency’s proposal to reduce carbon pollution and protect public health.