This summer adds to the growing evidence of the world's shifting climate. China and Pakistan are experiencing back-to-back disasters caused by heavy rains, floods and mudflows. Heatwaves have hit Eastern Europe and Russia, and the drought has caused forest fires. Japan has also not been spared from the heat stroke while South America has moved into the chilling winter.

Global warming is causing unpredictable weather changes. We need to respond immediately to what the world's climate* will be like in the next 30 to 50 years, which may force the treatment of serious efforts to fight global warming.

Unfortunately, international negotiations on global warming have stalled. Hopes are high for a greenhouse gas emissions trading memorandum. This will attract international conversation in favor of fighting climate change.

The Asahi Shimbun. August 19