"We must act. We must act knowing that our work will be imperfect," the 44th President of the United States vowed today in an Inaugural Address even stronger and more inclusive than his first one.
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Obama eloquently and passionately spoke of broad basic goals, but did not outline the means to approach them. His State of the Union address in three weeks should provide some practical answers.
Meanwhile, the President's regard for the health of the planet figured prominently among the subjects he chose to raise today. Its inclusion likely pleased those in the United States who take unselfish interest in the welfare of the entire earth:
"We, the people, still believe that our obligations as Americans are not just to ourselves, but to all posterity. We will respond to the threat of climate change, knowing that the failure to do so would betray our children and future generations."
"Some may still deny the overwhelming judgment of science, but none can avoid the devastating impact of raging fires, and crippling drought, and more powerful storms. The path toward sustainable energy sources will be long and sometimes difficult. But America cannot resist this transition. We must lead it."
Time will tell whether President Obama can translate good intentions into workable solutions.
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Science writer Sandy Dechert covered issues raised at the recently concluded 18th UN climate change summit meeting and during the 2012 presidential election. Her other work has included investigations into solar, wind, biomass, large and small hydroelectric, geothermal, and conventional energy forms. Sandy has also reported for Examiner.com on extreme weather disasters over the past few years.
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