Our last Reader Feedback edition showcased several comments from readers responding to the letter from the publisher, entitled “What If We’re Wrong About CO2 & Global Warming? In his letter in Heat Treat Today’s January 2025 Technologies To Watch print edition, publisher Doug Glenn challenged the “assumption that global warming, and specifically man-induced global warming, is a real and settled science.”
In this follow-up, we share a reply from a reader who comes to the discussion from a different perspective.
Would you like to weigh in on the topic? Submit your question, comments, thoughts, or queries here or email Bethany Leone at editor@heattreattoday.com.
Here is an excerpt from the publisher’s page:
“I’d like to challenge that assumption. Firstly, legacy media, the federal government, academia, and the scientists who deliver the science we’re called to follow — i.e. “follow the science” — are all strong proponents of man-made global warming and the evil of CO2. This grouping of authorities, in and of itself, causes many to be suspicious, given this group’s historic record of dishonesty and deception. If this group has been so wrong in the past on macro-social economic issues (e.g., Covid) would it not be reasonable to question their claims about climate change?
Secondly, the science doesn’t seem to be as settled as claimed.”
This publisher’s page prompted this feedback from loyal reader Markus Kick, Phoenix Contact GmbH & Co. KG:
Thoughts on “What If We’re Wrong About CO2 & Global Warming?”
“I wanted to share some thoughts on an article from one of my favorite US magazines, Heat Treat Today. If you’re in the thermal processing field, Heat Treat Today is a must-read!
I’ve been working globally in automation and digitalization in industrial thermal process technologies for over 20 years, focusing on furnaces, melting tanks, and boiler systems. So, I know my stuff. It’s really troubling to see human-caused climate change being questioned. But it’s important to discuss every opinion clearly, and that speaks to the quality of Heat Treat Today without losing sight of reality. Our planet and future don’t have a Plan B.
The scientific community overwhelmingly agrees that climate change is real and primarily caused by human activities. Over 97% of climate scientists agree that human activities, especially burning fossil fuels, are the main cause of global warming. This consensus is supported by science academies from 80 countries. Data from the Federal Statistical Office shows that the impacts of climate change are already being felt. Extreme weather events like heatwaves and floods have increased in recent years, causing significant damage.
It’s crucial that we rely on solid scientific evidence to tackle the challenges of climate change. Industrial thermal process technology must always be discussed globally as a team because we all have an impact on this wonderful, millennia-old tradition of heat treatment. The industry shouldn’t work with private opinions but should shape the future for our kids. Especially the thermal industry must ensure that we still have our planet tomorrow. The world is a ‘we,’ not an ‘I.’
Let’s work together to create a sustainable future. By trusting scientific findings and collaborating globally, we can ensure that the tradition of heat treatment continues while protecting our planet.
Sources:
Our World in Data: This source provides a comprehensive breakdown of global greenhouse gas emissions by sector, highlighting the significant contributions of energy, transport, and industry
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC): The IPCC’s reports offer detailed assessments of the scientific basis of climate change, its impacts, and potential future risks
National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA): NASA’s Climate Change and Global Warming portal offers extensive data and research on the causes and effects of climate change
United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC): The UNFCCC provides international policy frameworks and agreements aimed at combating climate change.
World Resources Institute (WRI): WRI’s research includes data on global greenhouse gas emissions and strategies for reducing them.”
Heat Treat Today thanks Markus for his input and perspective, and we encourage all respectful inquiries or feedback on Heat Treat Today articles. Submit your questions/comments to editor@heattreattoday.com.
