Climate series starts on warm note 

DOVER-FOXCROFT — On Jan. 3 after a week postponement due to weather, 19 local people came together at The Commons at Central Hall to talk about “Bridging the Climate Change Divide,” to kick off a year long monthly “Final Fridays” series of climate conversations and to enjoy a delicious potluck meal. Participants came from Charleston, Garland, Dexter, Dover-Foxcroft, Sebec and Milo and from many walks of life to share their perspectives about climate change and to talk about how the current conversation around climate change is impacting them.

There was a range of emotions expressed about the current climate-related events around the world, and the group shared a common desire to learn more about the value of certain actions such as driving electric vehicles, using solar or wind energy, or the pros and cons of hydro-power and an eagerness to continue the community conversations. While many talked about what they are currently doing to care for their environment and to mitigate the effects of climate warming, there was also a common feeling of urgency to “do more,” and a curiosity about what we in rural Maine can really do that will make a difference.  

Future conversations in this year-long climate series sponsored by The Commons Energy Collaborative will tackle some of these questions as well as “Learning from progress around the world,” “How to reduce carbon?” “The potential impact of sustainable agriculture and re-forestation,” “Should you reduce meat in your diet?” “The intersection of religious faith and climate change,” “The meaning of environmental justice,” “How to cope with The Sixth Extinction,” “Investing in the world of climate change.”  Other topics of interest to participants will be developed over time.   

The next climate conversation will be held from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 31. Bring a dish to share. For more information contact Laurie Sproul at  lauriesproul65@gmail.com.