Most newspapers today, including this one, have online forums for reader comment.

These electronic discussions give readers a chance to vent (rant?). Unlike letters to the editor, participants can and do use pseudonyms, which possibly accounts for the volume (and sometimes tone) of online responders compared to those in print. For example, one recent news item triggered 56 comments from a dozen or so responders. There wouldn’t be enough space in the newspaper for that many letters.

Tribune columnists haven’t provoked much comment lately. Maybe this item on climate change will get some response.

October 24 was International Day of Climate Action. People from 181 countries (including Canada) came together to call attention to carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere. A NASA research team, headed by climate scientist James Hansen, believes we earthlings are facing disaster if atmospheric concentrations of CO2 continue to exceed 350 parts per million. (In August, they were 385.92 ppm.)

Along with the many “350” demonstrations, petitions were circulated. The hope is that the widespread concern will convince world leaders meeting in Copenhagen next month to Do Something.

Many people think climate change is baloney. Maybe it is. I’ve just read What’s the Worst That Could Happen by Greg Craven. He suggests that when we listen to the endless arguments from the doomsayers and the “Everything’s OK” bunch, we accept that both could be wrong.

He recommends weighing the evidence on both sides, then deciding which risk to take. Do we take action that may harm the economy? Or do nothing and possibly end up with climate changes that could do grievous harm to ourselves?

At my age, it’s most comfortable to go on as usual, but investing in some environmental insurance may be the best legacy I can leave my descendants.

I signed the petition.