It is clear from scientific evidence of global warming, and of reaching "peak oil", that in order for our children and future generations to have a habitable planet, Blewbury like all communities must act to change its way of life in just a few years. Sustainable Blewbury is driven by the need to lower our dependence on fossil fuels, and to find ways in which we as a village can adapt to a more sustainable style of living, while retaining our quality of life.
Many towns and villages locally and internationally have already started acting on a range of community initiatives aimed at simpler living – some links are given here. Transition Towns aiming to live with lower carbon have been set up, including Totnes and Lewes. "A future without oil could be better than the present if we use our imagination and think creatively".
Global warming is not just a scientific theory, it is already happening. The changes in climate will be far more than just rising termperatures. The huge challenge is to change how we live in order to keep the effects from being extremely serious. Change is needed at all levels: global, national and local.
Peak oil is the point where further expansion of oil production becomes impossible, because new production flows are fully offset by production declines. Many experts believe we are either close to peak oil or have already passed it.
An open letter for the new decade
In just a few decades our lifestyles and prosperity have been transformed beyond measure by an addiction to and a dependency on fossil fuels.
Carbon dioxide levels in our atmosphere have now risen to 387 parts per million (from a pre-industrial level of 278) – unprecedented for at least the last 420,000 years. An impressive scientific consensus shows us that we are responsible for this rise. The consequences are evident in melting glaciers and more extreme weather. However, science helps us discover the intricate wonders and fragility of our home planet, but can only inform. At the time of the first world war, Wilfred Owen (1893–1918) said that all a poet can do today is to warn – science too. It is up to us as individuals and community through our actions to heed these warnings. Reaction to climate change (as to slavery or Nazism for example) is an absolute imperative – we cannot compromise. We must act now – hard as it is to relate slow impending climate change to daily life – since for sure, our children and grandchildren will inherit the consequences.
Blewbury is fortunate in having a vibrant, caring and creative community. What sort of “view from the hill” do we envisage in 10, 20, 50 years time? Do we have the vision to evolve into a model for community adaptation, leading simpler and less energy-dependent lives? We are part of a growing movement of communities in Oxfordshire and beyond who are beginning to think and take actions on energy and related issues. Green shoots are appearing. With a new year, a new decade, let us reflect on our priorities and be part of the solution rather than the problem.
Mike Edmunds