Some responses to Ian Macgowan’s letter published in the Port Lincoln Times on September 18 (‘All need to participate’).
Who is responsible for emitting most greenhouse gases?
Chinese citizens are responsible for producing about 10 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions per person per year.
Australians are responsible for more than 22 tonnes per person per year emitted within Australia, plus many more tonnes emitted overseas as a result of burning millions of tonnes of exported Australian coal and gas.
Who is taking the most effective action to address the problem?
China long ago recognised the very serious problem of atmospheric pollution from fossil fuelled industries and transportation, especially in cities.
It has done more than the rest of the world during the past 15 years to comprehensively address this.
China has electrified its urban bus fleets, developed and mass produced more efficient batteries, photo voltaic cells and panels, inverters, electric vehicles, wind turbines and high voltage transmission systems.
Very significant cost reductions have been achieved in the production, installation and commissioning of these components that are essential for transformation of the world’s energy systems and infrastructure.
Australian governments have started too late and are still proceeding too slowly with the essential transformation from expensive fossil fuel dependency to safe, clean, reliable, lowest cost and sustainable energy systems.
During last year China provided the world with more than 50 per cent of the equipment needed for installations of renewable energy systems and electric vehicles.
China’s lead with transformative energy policies and urgent actions at enormous scale are providing crucial environmental, social and economic benefits, not only within China, but across the globe.
John Scott, Louth Bay
Dementia support appreciated
Dear editor,
An immense thank you to everyone who was involved and spread the word during 2025 Dementia Action Week from September 15 to 21.
Across Australia, individuals and organisations supported our campaign ‘Nobody can do it alone’, encouraging everyone in the community to reach out and reconnect with someone in their life affected by dementia.
Social isolation and loneliness are, unfortunately, all too commonly experienced by many living with dementia.
And, with the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare reporting this month that dementia is now the leading cause of death for all Australians, chances are that you know someone impacted and can help be part of their support system – so that none of us have to face dementia alone.
On behalf of the estimated 433,300 Australians living with dementia and the 1.7 million people involved in their care, thank you for showing your support this Dementia Action Week.
While Dementia Action Week is only one week each year, the conversation and action to eliminate the lack of understanding that leads to stigma and discrimination continues year-round.
For information and tips on how you can continue working towards a dementia-friendly future, please visit dementia.org.au/DementiaActionWeek
For support any time, please contact the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Merran Kelsall, Dementia Australia chairperson
