To the editor: I discovered the latest Los Angeles Occasions article on California glaciers alarmist and one-sided (“As California glaciers disappear, individuals will see ice-free peaks uncovered for the primary time in millennia,” Oct. 1). The article appears to depend on a slim focus of proof, which is then extrapolated to make broader factors.
As somebody with a background in geology and Earth science, I wish to supply a distinct perspective: Glaciers naturally undergo cycles of advancing and retreating. Suggesting that the local weather may be mounted to a selected state indefinitely shouldn’t be scientific, because the local weather has at all times been in flux. Whereas it’s true that glaciers are at the moment retreating, historic patterns point out that they might advance once more sooner or later.
When articles constantly body local weather subjects in apocalyptic phrases — quoting researchers who say glaciers are “[dying] off” — it dangers disengaging readers, who begin to say, “yeah, proper, no matter.” The Occasions ought to encourage extra measured reporting that acknowledges each the complexity of local weather programs and the longstanding patterns of change.
Chris Richgels, Scottsdale, Ariz.
