Increased levels of carbon dioxide along with increased global temperatures have deleterious effects on global health, Dr. Kent Bradford said yesterday in a speech in Carson Hall.
Bradford, who spoke on behalf of Physicians for Social Responsibility, also emphasized the importance of new fuel sources and using fossil fuels more efficiently.
Bradford pointed out that global carbon dioxide and temperature levels remained steady until a sharp increase in the 1800s, presumably because of the Industrial Revolution and the expanding use of fossil fuels that resulted.
Higher temperature and increased carbon dioxide levels means more extreme weather around the world, according to Bradford.
Bradford said that because of the higher global temperatures, the air would be able to hold more moisture, which results in more precipitation and causes greater flooding and more frequent storm systems. Floods, besides causing drowning and damage, also pose a risk of contamination to water reservoirs.
Higher temperatures have adverse effects on global health, Bradford said, citing last summer's deadly heat waves in Europe as an example. Increased temperatures also intensify air pollution, and more precipitation results in an increase in humidity-sensitive infectious diseases.
The lecture also emphasized the importance of rational and economical energy solutions.
Bradford pointed out that the government has spent $12 billion on efficiency research since 1978. This investment has since added $100 billion to the U.S. economy, while reducing environmental toxins.
Two-thirds of oil is used for transportation, with the average car having a fuel efficiency of 20 miles per gallon, Bradford said.
According to Bradford, if the average car could get 23 miles per gallon, American dependence on Iraqi oil could be eliminated. If raised to 33, America could eliminate dependence on all Persian Gulf oil.
Bradford showed the audience slides of various hybrid and concept cars that obtain MPHs of 60 or more.
Bradford warned the audience against the use of nuclear power, the source of 52 percent of New Hampshire's energy. Nuclear power is not a solution to energy needs because of "dreadful economics," Bradford said. Nuclear power plants often need to be subsidized, and no satisfactory system for nuclear waste management exists yet.
Bradford further emphasized the importance of developing safer alternative energy sources like wind and solar power.
Physicians for Social Responsibility is an organization of about 29,000 physicians, other health professionals, businessmen and students. It was founded in the 1960s as a reaction to nuclear proliferation. In 1985, the organization won the Nobel Peace Prize.
Attendees received a pamphlet entitled "A Breath of Fresh Air: How Smarter Energy Choices Can Protect Public Health in New Hampshire."
