I believe it is a mistake to continue to focus on the issue of “Climate Change” as a way to catalyze change. It is a concept that is wrought with emotion for so many people. This emotional investment by people means they can’t listen to evidence that goes against their beliefs (a nugget from brain and cognitive science, but perhaps they don’t think that science is “settled” either). But, think about when you believe passionately about something. How easy is it for someone to change your mind to the other side?

Instead, what about focusing on the damage that we are doing to our economy and our country’s security by over relying on fossil fuels? (Can anyone doubt that the Gulf oil spill was an environmental catastrophe?)

It’s time to wake up and embrace a move into a new era of technology. I can’t imagine how one could work at NASA for 2, 4, or 40 years and not embrace this kind of technological advancement. Or, perhaps we should not have continued to innovate on space vehicles?

Since I don’t know what I don’t know (and neither do these NASA scientists), I prefer to follow the precautionary principle and err on the side of doing something about man made carbon emissions. Either way, we get rid of toxic pollution and by products, as well as rise up as an innovator and leader again which can only be considered win/win, no matter how you look at it. Or, we can continue to waste our brain power arguing against Climate Change and watch while China, India, and others take over as the world’s super powers.

Interestingly, I only see two women on that list (Anita and Grace). Perhaps the rest of the NASA women care about their children’s and grandchildren’s future well being. I know that I do.