It’s easy to ignore the effects of climate change when isolated away from natural disasters in our corner of southeastern Connecticut. The winters seem just as cold, and without our houses being actively swept away by storm surges, climate change is as much of a threat to Connecticut as are polar bears. That that does not mean, however, that somewhere else something of the exact nature isn’t happening. We have the ability to do something about it.

Turning to renewable energy is not only the right option, but is soon to be the only option. The Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Comprehensive Energy Strategy hopes to pull away from renewable energy and focus on fossil fuels. This will only put off the necessity of renewables, and cause further damage to an ailing planet.

I am urging Connecticut to focus its resources on making Connecticut a greener, more environmentally friendly state, and be at the front of the fight for Earth. Cornell University and Hampshire College are leading the charge by switching to 100 percent renewable energy, the students of Connecticut PIRG are urging UConn to follow suit by 2050. Help save the future of Connecticut, and our planet, by supporting our 100 percent renewable campaign.

Isabel Umland

Waterford