Los Angeles Times

Commentary: On the climate crisis, it’s time to lean into pessimism

Jim Brigance of Atlanta, takes a photo with son Will as they stand next to a digital display of an unofficial heat reading at Furnace Creek Visitor Center during a heat wave in Death Valley National Park in Death Valley, California, on July 16, 2023.

The state of the environment in California — as in the U.S. — is grim this summer. A record-breaking heat wave. The first tropical storm recorded in 84 years in the state. Another dangerous wildfire season ahead. There’s no end to the bad news. What’s the best way to cope with our collective climate anxiety?

Some might say that you should keep a positive outlook. In fact, if you’ve read about the environment lately, you’ve surely heard arguments

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