To the Editor:

The Conference of the Parties (COP) is an annual meeting of most of the world's countries, focusing on climate change.  Their goal is to slow global warming by decreasing the use of fossil fuels.  

COP30 includes nearly 200 countries meeting at the edge of the Amazon rainforest in Brazil.  

The United States is and has been for years the world's biggest polluter and yet President Trump, who claims he doesn't believe in climate change, has not sent a delegation.   

His financial and political ties to the fossil fuel industry are the likely reason he is sticking his head in the sand.  His action, or better yet lack of action, is making the world's efforts much more difficult.  He is also putting you and your descendants at greater risk from the impacts of climate change.  

So far, we in the North Country have been fairly insulated from the fires, floods, and storms.  

But we have felt the initial signs: wildfire smoke, flooding and increased tornado activity in NY.  It is only the beginning so don't hide your head in the sand.  

The first step is to educate yourself and your loved ones about the issues.  Then get involved at some level locally, statewide, nationally, Globally.  There are many organizations that can help you do both.  

They do not require money; just your participation if you can in some way.  Here are some: Third Act, Moms Clean Air Force, Mother Jones, Native Organizer Alliance, EARTHWORKS, 350.org, Earth Justice. Food & Water Watch.

David Bolesh
Lisbon