Issue date: 4/16/07 Section: Campus News

Media Credit: Patti Gunderson

Global warming - for a large portion of people today, this isn't an unknown term anymore. For students such as sophomore Katie Flehmer, global warming is an issue she said she believes more people should start looking at with an informed opinion.

As the final speaker for UW-Eau Claire's Forum series this year, David Orr will conclude with his presentation "The Global Predicament," which will cover the major issues surrounding global warming and our impact on it.

"We always hear the touchy-feely side of it," Flehmer said, "A lot of people need to hear the serious side of it."

Flehmer went on to say she thinks people have heard so many different things about global warming, and many have uninformed ideas about it. She said she thinks the Forum is a great opportunity for students to hear information about the subject from a credible source so students can make their own decisions.

Renowned for his work on environmental literacy in higher education, Orr has tackled many related global warming issues through his recent work in designing ecological buildings. He has published 150 articles in scientific journals, social science publications and popular magazines.

Crispin Pierce, assistant professor of public health professions and adviser for The Conservationists, said he considers Orr a highly respected speaker and encourages students to attend the Forum.

"In my opinion, global warming is one of the top three threats we face today," Pierce said. "People need to take it seriously."

Many times, people don't see how global warming affects more than one thing and presents consequences later on, he said.

Pierce also added that our consumption of fossil fuels advances global warming and affects our crops, as well as our economy.

In regards to getting the full perspective of how global warming affects us, Flehmer said attending the forum is a great way to hear what a credible speaker has to say on the subject and gives students a chance to make their own decisions.

"People need to hear the serious side of it, and they're more apt to believe what they hear if it's not surrounded in fluff," she said. "It's important that someone of that knowledge come to campus and to hear what they have to say."

Orr's presentation will begin in Zorn Arena at 7:30 p.m. A reception will follow in which Orr will be available to answer questions and sign copies of his book. Tickets are available at the door as well as the Service Center in Davies Center.

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