Where There’s Smoke There’s Fire: The Fight Continues
By Tony Passino, August 15, 2023
National Climate Fellow Tony Passino continues to chronicle his recent hike on the Appalachian Trail!
It's day 18, and Olivia and I just checked into a small hotel in Duncannon, Pennsylvania. We had big plans to push further along the Appalachian Trail, but sometimes nature has a way of throwing unexpected challenges our way. Today, it was the thick smoke from wildfires in Canada that transformed our serene walk in the woods into an arduous trek.
From the moment we started walking today, the devastating reality of wildfires fueled by climate change weighed heavily on our minds. The once-distant problem had become an immediate and tangible obstacle on our journey. It served as a stark reminder of the urgency to address the environmental crisis we face.
The smoke-filled air that surrounds us is not just an inconvenience, it is a symptom of a larger problem. The increasing frequency and intensity of wildfires are clear indications of the changing climate. As temperatures rise and drought conditions persist, the delicate balance of nature is disrupted, leaving forests vulnerable to the ravages of flames. While our hotel room may be able to shield us from the poor air quality, it cannot address the root cause of our climate crisis, only we can.
From the edge of the bed, the evening sun fills our room with an orangish hue as Olivia and I look out the window. We can see the hazy streets of Duncannon below from the safety of our room. An upgrade from our tent, our quant room is just big enough for a full sized bed with fresh sheets. After a warm shower and a big meal, it's time to get some rest.
Tomorrow, as we resume our journey, we'll do so with a renewed sense of purpose. Our footsteps will carry the weight of responsibility and the determination to raise awareness about the climate crisis. We will continue to advocate for sustainable practices, demand action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and support initiatives that restore and protect our forests. By taking actions like these, we are taking an important step towards addressing our climate crisis.
As we navigate through these smoky trails, we invite you to join us in the fight. Each of us has a role to play. Together, we can work toward a shared vision of the future, where the climate-fueled haze choking our lungs is a thing of the past.
Read Part One of his journey here.
Read Part Two of his journey here.
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