LETTER AS SUBMITTED IN RESPONSE TO LETTER FROM JOHN LAWSON-REAY IN THE NORTH WALES PIONEER, 2006-01-15

Dear Editor,

I am writing in response to John Lawson-Reay's letter about the proposed Gwynt y Mor wind farm (Pioneer, 15th January 2006).

As with other communications from SOS, there is a complete failure to understand how serious is the problem of climate change and the need for urgent action throughout the world to make major cuts in emissions of CO2 from the burning of oil, coal and gas. In order to have any influence in international negotiations, the UK must show that it is cutting its own emissions.

Recent studies have shown that glaciers on Greenland and in the Antarctic are now moving much faster than before. The ice that falls into the sea raises sea levels immediately without it being necessary for the ice to melt. Rising sea levels present a major threat to coastal towns and cities throughout the world, and that includes Llandudno. What is the use of having a nice view if the town itself has been wrecked by flooding?

Mr Lawson-Reay points out, correctly, that old nuclear power stations are due to close and too much reliance on imported gas may be unwise. What is missing from his letter is any constructive proposal about how else we can generate the electricity we need and how we can do it without emissions of CO2. Fortunately, we do not need to rely on SOS for answers to those questions. A recent study by professional engineers commissioned by the German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety (BMU) has shown, with detailed projections, how Europe can make deep cuts in CO2 emissions and phase out nuclear power stations at the same time. To achieve these kinds of cuts, it will be necessary to use a range of different technologies: energy-conservation, wave power, tidal power, solar power, power from biofuels and hot rocks, and more. The key point for the present discussion is that wind power has a major part to play in these scenarios. It is an essential part of the mix.

Here in the UK we are blessed with exceptional opportunities to generate power from wind, waves, tidal streams and tidal lagoons. If we are to head off the chaos of rising sea levels and weather disasters, we should grasp these opportunities vigorously.

Sincerely,

Gerry Wolff

Address details