Let us imagine a rewrite of New Zealand history, which has produced a country so clean and green it is held up as the ultimate example to the rest of the world. Do you think, under this scenario, the world would see any difference in climate change? 

In the hypothetical New Zealand, as outlined, what sort of country would we live in, in terms of living standards such as greater equality and opportunity for all? 

I think the sad facts are there are just too many of us worldwide, and a lot are into rampant consumerism. 

I am ploughing my way through a massive tome written by Peter Frankopan, who is Professor of Global History at Oxford University. This is called The Earth Transformed (An Untold Story). It is a comprehensive study of climate change over the years and its terrible effects on human civilisations. 

It appears we are always optimistic, even in the face of repeated failure. We also consistently display the human failings of greed and exploiting the misery of others. 

It is interesting to note that Thomas Jefferson and Benjamin Franklin were both concerned about global warming. 

Ron Taylor