This is the truth that destroys the political hijacking of Gaylord Nelson’s legacy to America.
Carbon dioxide absorbs infrared radiation (IR) in only three narrow bands of frequencies, which correspond to wavelengths of 2.7, 4.3 and 15 micrometers (µm), respectively. The percentage absorption of all three lines combined can be very generously estimated at about 8% of the whole IR spectrum, which means that 92% of the "heat" passes right through without being absorbed by CO2. If the entire atmosphere were composed of nothing but CO2, i.e., was pure CO2 and nothing else, it would still only be able to absorb no more than 8% of the heat radiating from the earth.
CO2 is currently working at 100% capacity, and neither adding nor subtracting from current levels will change the present temperatures. It is harmless to the environment.
Until this truth is embraced by our leadership the unjustified fears of our carbon footprint, the anti-human drive against cheap and abundant energy and the elitist desire to rule lesser individuals will not be driven from American society. Gaylord Nelson would have understood the slogan: Speak Truth to Power. It is time to do just that.
