Re: “Think Maine was hot this summer? Just wait, study says” (Aug. 19, Page B3):

This article is very important. Finally, people are waking up to what is happening to our world.

Sun Journal reporter Steve Collins cites a recent First Street Foundation report that Androscoggin County will lead the way with about 24 days a year above 90 degrees Fahrenheit by 2053, and other counties will not be far behind. Maine will fare better than most states, and I expect we will be dealing with “climate refugees.” The foundation’s CEO argues that we need to prepare for this future, and that is a valid point. There is no discussion, however, of the more important point: We need to slow down global warming.

The Inflation Reduction Act’s recent passage is the most important step America has ever taken to help slow climate change. The bottom line is that we have to stop using fossil fuels now. Many fossil fuel companies continue to fight such a change, but Americans should no longer listen to them or the politicians they have bought. Medical experts estimate that 7 million people die yearly from air pollution caused by fossil fuels, and a great many die from excessive heat – again, primarily a result of greenhouse gases from fossil fuels.

Please consider calling Sens. Angus King and Susan Collins and Reps. Chellie Pingree and Jared Golden to tell them you are happy about the Inflation Reduction Act passing but want more climate action. When voting this fall, give careful consideration to the candidates’ climate positions.

Nancy Hasenfus
Brunswick