Market – © John Neel

Not long ago, I found a copy of Al Gore’s book – An Inconvenient Truth. It was in the bargain bin at the local Barnes & Noble. I think I paid less than a few bucks for it. Even though I had seen the movie when it first came out, I read it from cover to cover.

“As a photographer and a father, I believe we must act to do everything possible in order to assure a reasonable future for our children and hopefully their children.”

The majority of us would take the word of our doctor, our lawyer and our banker for their professional opinions. We trust them for their knowledge and experience in doing what they do. They are considered the experts in their chosen fields. If the doctor tells you that you might have cancer, you would be foolish to simply brush it off or to listen to anyone that has no real knowledge. You’d most likely pay attention to what they have to say.

Perhaps it is also a good idea to take the advice of those professionals that have looked at the climate problem, those who understand the consequences and have been warning us of the impending outcome of not doing anything.

It’s been a few years since Al made his points about the climate crisis. In the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy and the intensity of storms across the world, it appears like we are finding out that he just might be right. Perhaps if it had more sex appeal or came with a promise of a bright future, a new car, or a beautiful lawn, we would have paid more attention. I’m sure there are many on the Atlantic Coast who have become truly inconvenienced believers.

At this late date, however, it may be a little late.

Trailer – © John Neel

As photographers, it would seem to me that any topic about the destruction of our environment should get front row attention. I for one believe we have a problem. I believe that Climate Reality is not fiction, it is not a hoax. I understand that it is here and realize it is real. To deny that it is not is a betrayal to humanity and to all life.

Naturally, it would be important to know that the future was going to work out in a positive way. It makes sense that we at least look at what our science is telling us. Opinion is not an answer. We certainly can’t expect the whole thing to just go away. It is foolish to ignore what the majority of scientists and thinkers have been telling us for some time now – Climate Change is a reality, the future looks grim, we must do something soon. The sky is actually in danger. It is metaphorically falling right in front of us.

The world is not as big as some might believe. It doesn’t take much to see the damage we inflict on our planet. The signs are everywhere. Much of it is in our own backyard. In fact, it is in everyone’s backyard.

The climate problem is only one in hundreds of others that we need to face. From the Oil crisis in the Gulf, to deadly radiation from the Fukushima nuclear meltdown, which is still producing dangerous radioactive leaks into the air and water. Our massive consumption of resources, deforestation, unchecked fracking and continuous war, are quickly devouring what is left of the natural world.  In the process, we are exposing ourselves to the fallout of our apathy and ignorance.

As a photographer and a father, I believe we must act to do everything possible in order to assure a reasonable future for our children and their children. We shouldn’t take any chances with any of the threats we face including Climate Change and the causes that created it. Climate Change is not only about changes in temperature. There is a long list of other things that will be harshly affected. Climate Change by itself will affect all aspects of life including our food, water, and our health. People will starve, suffer and die in much larger numbers than we have ever known. It ain’t going to be fun! It is not a pretty picture.

Cracked – © John Neel

Before we can do anything, we must realize that there is a problem. In order to make change we need real knowledge and a realistic solution. We are facing a conflict with nature caused by our indifference, our ignorance and our greed. Denial is not an option we can afford. Even the rich will suffer. And so will the ignorant.

The impending crisis of climate change will not be a good deal for anyone, anywhere, at any price.

I believe we need to see true reality of what is happening to the entire planet, which is our home – and to understand the true significance of what it ALL means if we do not.

To me, saving the environment is the key to the future. It is why I make images. It is a way to show others what we will face and what we will lose.