Climate crisis, what crisis - as plane and car traffic increase

Sitting, sweltering during the recent heat wave, it was somewhat bizarre to be viewing the seemingly constant succession of aircraft flying overhead. The extreme temperatures are being caused by climate change, yet very little is really being done to address the crisis - it is business as usual, especially for the airline industry. Having lost trade over the period of the pandemic, it seems determined to make up for lost time and profits. This determination though can only be driven by demand. Why given the climate crisis that now faces the world are so many people still climbing on planes regardless? The climate crisis has reached such a point that radical change is needed in everybody's lives - doing a bit of recycling is not enough. It is better than nothing but not enough, given the breadth of the crisis. The number of people flying and driving really proves that the penny has not dropped, regarding the seriousness of climate change. It's carry on, as usual, the scientists will find a magic bullet solution one day. But what if they don't? How about the fires that stretched the fire service to breaking point during the 40 degree heatwave in July? The flooding that will no doubt come when the heavy rain falls? Yet, rather than address the crisis, an attitude of complete denial seems to be spreading. Take London City Airport, who have put their expansion plans back on the table, after withdrawal a few years ago. The proposals will see annual passenger numbers increase from 6.5 million to 9 million. The current curfew on flights between 12.30pm on Saturday to 12.30pm on Sunday is to be terminated, allowing flying on Saturday afternoon and evening. There is to be an increase in flights permitted from 6.30 to 6.59 from 6 to 12. Local Labour MP John Cryer is absolutely right to be opposing these plans to extend flying hours and increase flights. He highlights the climate crisis, as part of the reasoning for opposing the expansion. We need a step change that takes the world away from behaving in ways that cause climate change. It is a constant mystery as to how so many people with children can close their eyes to this crisis. It is future for these children and coming generations that is being destroyed. Everyone has to take responsibility for the way they live, drive and fly less, insulate housing, use sustainable energy - where possible and switch to more vegetable based diets. Only if we all start to really act now can the world be pulled back from the precipice of destruction. What we are beginning to see with heatwaves and floods is only the start. * London City Airport consultation can be found at https://consultation.londoncityairport.com/ - consultation ends on 9 September 2022