There are almost no scientists debating whether or not humans are causing disruptive climate patterns any more, but the Heartland Institute (aka The Greenwasher) is sponsoring a "scientific" conference right now in New York City. They're calling it the 2008 International Conference on Climate Change. Justice of the Peace Doug Reed is attending to learn more about "the issue" as Arkansas Governor Mike Beebe considers a moratorium on new coal plant constuction.

Now, why is JP/physics teacher Doug Reed so unconvinced about climate change? He is a physics teacher?! It makes me wonder why Arkansas consistently comes in low in national education rankings. Contrast our public official's statement with this one from California:

"You can't have a science curriculum that is relevant and current if it doesn't deal with the science behind climate change."

That comes from Sen. Joe Simitian, D-Palo Alto. To top it off, he also wants to mandate that all future science textbooks approved by the state of California include climate change.

Duh, giving kids a climate change education is important

Now, Mr. Reed is assuredly an intelligent and calculating man (NOT sarcasm). Unfortunately, this makes his decision to attend this conference even more disheartening. How can he attend this conference without knowing what a ruse it is?

And to the organizations and individuals calling for a moratorium on coal-fired plants, is including climate change education in science curricula as important? I think so...